Introducing Internet Changemakers
Welcome to Internet Changemakers, a podcast by the Internet Society Alumni Network.
From the days of dial-up to the rise of AI, the Internet has transformed how we live, work, and connect — but who’s driving that change? And what challenges lie ahead?
Meet your hosts: Claire van Zwieten, Alumni Specialist at the Internet Society; Yug Desai, a PhD candidate, and Internet Society alumnus; and Noha Ashraf Abdel Baky, an IT professional and Internet Society alumna.
Together, they introduce a new podcast exploring the people, ideas, and technologies shaping the Internet — past, present, and future.
In each episode, you'll hear from pioneers, innovators, and leaders tackling key issues like online privacy, the digital divide, and how to make the Internet safer, more inclusive, and accessible to all.
📅 The first episode drops June 23, 2025, featuring none other than Dr. Vint Cerf, one of the founding fathers of the Internet.
📅 The first episode drops June 23, 2025, featuring none other than Dr. Vint Cerf, one of the founding fathers of the Internet.
Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a professional in the field, or just curious about how the Internet impacts your life, this podcast is for you.
Subscribe now to Internet Changemakers and join the conversation about shaping the future of the Internet.
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.
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.
Producer
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.
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.
