What's Next for the Internet?
In the final episode of season one of Internet Changemakers, hosts Claire van Zwieten and Yug Desai and guests discuss the future of internet governance and digital inclusion. Joined by Amged Shwehdy, a digital transformation specialist and researcher at the UN Economic Commission for Africa, and Saba Tiku Beyene, youth advocate and AI policy researcher with roles at ICANN, the Internet Society, and the UN Internet Governance Forum (IGF). The conversation centers on the outcomes of the WSIS+20 Review and what comes next in the global effort to keep the internet open, secure, and equitable. Amged is an alumnus of the ISOC Early Career Fellowship. Saba is an alumna of the Youth Ambassador Program and the Community Fellowship.
Both guests stress that meaningful youth participation must go beyond tokenism. Amged called for structured pathways that move youth from panels and workshops into decision-making bodies, celebrating programs like the Internet Society's Youth Ambassadors and ICANN NextGen for equipping young participants with tools to intervene—not just observe—at global meetings. Saba adds that sustainable youth engagement requires institutional support, paid opportunities, long-term programs, mentorship, and shared leadership so that passion and volunteerism are matched with real opportunities for growth and influence.
Looking ahead, both guests remain optimistic. Amged points to the evolution of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) and AI capacity-building as transformative opportunities for development. Saba emphasizes the power of open-source AI to democratize innovation and ensure that technology serves local communities rather than being imposed from outside. Despite the risks—fragmentation, erosion of openness, symbolic participation—they both believe that the multi-stakeholder model, though imperfect, remains the most sustainable and effective way forward.
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
Yug Desai
I'm a PhD candidate in International Relations at South Asian University, researching the interplay of risk and expertise in Internet governance. In addition to my research, I serve on the organizing committees of Youth IGF India and APIGA India, and the steering committee of the Global Internet Governance Academic Network. I was selected as an Internet Society Youth Ambassador in 2023 and was part of the NextGen@ICANN81 cohort. I'm committed to bridging academic research and policymaking in Internet governance to advance user-centric technology and digital spaces grounded in trust, security, and accessibility.
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.
Producer
Alan Ramirez Garcia
Alan is a Peruvian policymaker, an ISOC Mid-career fellowship alumnus, and a lecturer at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru. His central experience involves broadband policies, Meaningful and Universal Connectivity, Ethics, and international/multilateral affairs. He has been appointed a member of the UN IGF Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) from 2022 to 2024.
Guest
Amged B. Shwehdy
Amged B. Shwehdy is a digital transformation specialist with more than eight years of experience at the intersection of research, digital policy, and innovation. He leads initiatives focused on Internet governance and digital development, advancing inclusive digital ecosystems and promoting active digital citizenship. With a strong academic foundation and extensive global network, Amged brings a powerful blend of strategic insight and hands-on expertise in digital strategies, change management, and project execution. He is deeply committed to using technology as a force for good, connecting people, driving economic growth, and supporting sustainable development. At the heart of his mission is a resolve to bridge the digital divide and ensure technology remains a tool for inclusion and equity.
Producer
Dr. Kim Ochs PhD.
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
Saba Tiku Beyene
Saba is an alumnus of the IGF Youth Ambassador Program and is based in Ethiopia. She is incredibly involved in the Internet ecosystem, sitting on the MAG and participating in industry events around the world. She currently serves as the Junior Advisor for AI for Economic Development at GIZ African Union, supporting the development of the AI Made in Africa program.
