THE ROAD TO THE ROUTER
In the third episode of Internet Changemakers, hosts Claire van Zwieten and Noha Ashraf AbdelBaky explore the human stories and technical realities of Internet connectivity with guests Cedrick Mbeyet and Lito Ibarra, often called the “father of the Internet in El Salvador.” Together, they unpack what it really means to be connected—not just as a technological achievement, but as a social and cultural milestone. The discussion spotlights the persistent global challenge of unequal access. For millions, getting online remains a daily struggle—one shaped by geography, economics, and policy. Yet, as Cedrick reminds us, connectivity is more than infrastructure: “Moving from the source to the destination includes so many things that we don’t take into consideration.”
This episode clearly shows how innovation, collaboration, and resilience are helping bridge the digital divide and why connectivity must be seen not only as a technical resource but also as a driver of inclusion, opportunity, and community empowerment.
Creators and Guests
Host
Claire van Zwieten
Claire van Zwieten is the Alumni Specialist at the Internet Society Foundation, where she leads a global network of changemakers shaping the future of the Internet. With a background in International Relations, Chinese Language and Culture, and a master’s in Crisis and Security Management, Claire brings a sharp eye for global dynamics and digital resilience. She thrives on building connections across borders and elevating the voices of those driving Internet accessibility, safety, and inclusion in their communities.
Host
Noha Ashraf AbdelBaky
Noha is a Storage Engineer, an ISOC fellowships Alumna, a member of ISOC Egypt Chapter and Youth SIG and an enthusiast of Youth Engagement and Women Empowerment in Internet Governance and dialogues about Tech policy.
Producer
Abdulrahman Abotaleb
Abdulrahman Abotaleb is a Yemeni ICT engineer, journalist, Internet governance advocate and digital transformation strategist. He has a distinguished track record of leadership and engagement in Internet policy through key initiatives and events such as ISOC, ICANN, RIPE, and the AIGF. He is the founder of Yemen Science Network and has conducted exclusive interviews with Internet pioneers including Vint Cerf, Whitfield Diffie, and Robert Metcalfe. His work bridges technology, storytelling, and digital rights, amplifying voices from the MENA region.
Guest
Cedrick Mbeyet
Cedrick Adrien Mbeyet is the Stakeholder Development Manager - Technical at AFRINIC and co-founder and Vice President of ISOC Senegal’s Next Generation Team. He graduated from the Internet Society & DiploFoundation’s Next Generation Leaders Program in 2010, and now serves as a Tutor for the Internet Society. Previously, he was the IT Manager at World Vision Senegal and the Regional IT Officer at Oxfam GB West Africa. Cedrick is an advocate for youth empowerment in digital spaces and has a strong track record in community-focused Internet initiatives.
Producer
Kim Ochs
Kim Ochs is an EdTech consultant and ISOC Mid-career Fellow Alumna, with extensive experience designing and implementing digital learning solutions across global contexts. Her work today focuses on advancing digital inclusion and education through innovative technology and cross-sector collaboration. Kim’s career spans technology research and private equity, start-ups, and higher education. She has held fellowships at the University of Oxford and Center for Democracy & Technology.
Guest
Lito Ibarra
Rafael Lito Ibarra, known as the “father of the Internet” in El Salvador, is the President of SVNet and a Director of RAICES. He served as a former ICANN Board Member from 2015 to 2021 and is currently a ccNSO member. A founding member of LACTLD, RedCLARA, and LACNIC, he has served on all three boards simultaneously. Ibarra is also the President of the Advisory Council on Innovation, Science, and Technology and a Director of the Salvadoran ICT Cluster. In 2021, he was inducted into the Internet Hall of Fame for his contributions to the Salvadoran Internet. An Electrical Engineer and Business Administrator, he is a recognized thought leader in Latin America’s digital transformation.
