Hello all,
The call for candidates for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection is now open from June 17, 2025 - July 2, 2025 at 11:59 UTC. The Board of Trustees oversees the Wikimedia Foundation's work, and each Trustee serves a three-year term https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Legal:Bylaws#(B)_Term.. This is a volunteer position.
This year, the Wikimedia community will vote starting in August and ending in September 2025 to fill two (2) seats on the Foundation Board. You can see the timeline of the full selection process here https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025#Timeline .
*Traits*
Wikimedia is a global movement and seeks candidates from the broader community. Ideal candidates are thoughtful, respectful, community-oriented and align with the Wikimedia Foundation mission. The Board is looking for candidates with experience guiding organizational strategy, navigating change, and driving long-term strategic objectives. Candidates should think about what experiences and perspectives they will bring to the Board.
The Board would like to find perspectives and voices that are essential but underrepresented in our movement. Accordingly, all candidates will be asked to include statements in their application that speak to their experiences in the world, the perspectives they bring to the movement and share how these help them to include those not already here.
*Time Commitment for Trustees*
Trustees serve a three year term and can serve up to three consecutive terms https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Bylaws#(B)_Term.. The expectation is that Trustees serve on at least one of the Board’s committees https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_committees#Board_of_Trustees_committees. The time commitment is about 150 hours per year, excluding travel. This time is not evenly spread throughout the year. The time is concentrated around meetings.
*Requirements to be a Trustee*
English is the language of business for the Board. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English. Previous experience serving on a collective decision-making body, especially Boards or committees, and significant experience in Wikimedia (or equivalent) movement building and organizing are expected from candidates. You can review the candidate guidelines here. https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application
*How to Apply*
Candidates from all projects and communities who meet the criteria to become a Wikimedia Trustee are welcome to apply. Could you - or someone you know - be a good fit to join the Wikimedia Foundation's Board of Trustees? Encourage them to run for election. Candidates can find information and submit their nomination on the candidate application https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application page. If you want to learn more about the role of Trustees or have questions, refer to this candidate resources https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Resources_for_candidates page.
*Community questions for candidates*
The questions for the Board of Trustees candidates to answer have been published as part of the candidate application. From the list of questions submitted by the community, the Election Committee selected 5 questions which the candidates are required to answer. Learn more about the community questions on this Meta-wiki page https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates .
Best regards, Abhishek Suryawanshi On behalf of the Elections Committee and the Governance Committee
Hi all,
Just to note that I won't be running for re-selection, and as Shani has also indicated that she won't be re-running, there will be two new WMF Trustees selected this year.
I want to particularly encourage candidates with community tech, GLAM, and education experience to consider standing this year, as I personally think those are topics that the Board would benefit from continued insights on, and they are areas that Shani and I have been bringing to the Board these last few years. I want to also particularly encourage candidates from underrepresented regions / languages / projects to run.
Through serving on the WMF Board, you get to provide high-level strategic input into the WMF's activities and tackle important global and Wikimedia-wide topics - of which there are many! It's a very worthwhile experience. Just as a reminder: this is a volunteer position.
At the same time, it can be very demanding. I was recently elected to the Royal Astronomical Society's Council (equivalent to its Board), so that is where I will be focusing my board work in the coming few years. I'm also looking forward to being able to take time off work for an actual holiday rather than to attend a Wikimedia conference (although of course, I'll still be using it to take photos for Commons...!). I'm also increasingly active in the topic of satellite constellation impacts in astronomy, which needs more of my time than I currently have available. Plus I want to get back to editing more again!
If you're considering running for the Board, then I'd be happy to chat about my experiences on it over the last three years, and/or make introductions as appropriate. Feel free to share this message with others who you think would be good candidates!
Thanks, Mike
On 17/06/2025 16:42, Elections Committee wrote:
Hello all,
The call for candidates for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection is now open from June 17, 2025 - July 2, 2025 at 11:59 UTC. The Board of Trustees oversees the Wikimedia Foundation's work, and each Trustee serves a three-year term <https:// foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Legal:Bylaws#(B)_Term.>. This is a volunteer position.
This year, the Wikimedia community will vote starting in August and ending in September 2025 to fill two (2) seats on the Foundation Board. You can see the timeline of the full selection process here <https:// meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025#Timeline>.
*Traits*
Wikimedia is a global movement and seeks candidates from the broader community. Ideal candidates are thoughtful, respectful, community- oriented and align with the Wikimedia Foundation mission. The Board is looking for candidates with experience guiding organizational strategy, navigating change, and driving long-term strategic objectives. Candidates should think about what experiences and perspectives they will bring to the Board.
The Board would like to find perspectives and voices that are essential but underrepresented in our movement. Accordingly, all candidates will be asked to include statements in their application that speak to their experiences in the world, the perspectives they bring to the movement and share how these help them to include those not already here.
*Time Commitment for Trustees*
Trustees serve a three year term and can serve up to three consecutive terms https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Bylaws#(B)_Term.. The expectation is that Trustees serve on at least one of the Board’s committees <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_committees#Board_of_Trustees_committees>. The time commitment is about 150 hours per year, excluding travel. This time is not evenly spread throughout the year. The time is concentrated around meetings.
*Requirements to be a Trustee*
English is the language of business for the Board. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English. Previous experience serving on a collective decision-making body, especially Boards or committees, and significant experience in Wikimedia (or equivalent) movement building and organizing are expected from candidates. You can review the candidate guidelines here. <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/ Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/ Candidate_application>
*How to Apply*
Candidates from all projects and communities who meet the criteria to become a Wikimedia Trustee are welcome to apply. Could you - or someone you know - be a good fit to join the Wikimedia Foundation's Board of Trustees? Encourage them to run for election. Candidates can find information and submit their nomination on the candidate application <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application> page. If you want to learn more about the role of Trustees or have questions, refer to this candidate resources <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/ Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/ Resources_for_candidates> page.
*Community questions for candidates*
The questions for the Board of Trustees candidates to answer have been published as part of the candidate application. From the list of questions submitted by the community, the Election Committee selected 5 questions which the candidates are required to answer. Learn more about the community questions on this Meta-wiki page <https:// meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates>.
Best regards, Abhishek Suryawanshi On behalf of the Elections Committee and the Governance Committee
Wikimedia-l mailing list -- wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org, guidelines at: https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Mailing_lists/Guidelines and https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia-l Public archives at https://lists.wikimedia.org/hyperkitty/list/wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org/... To unsubscribe send an email to wikimedia-l-leave@lists.wikimedia.org
Apologies to Mike Peel, this message does not appear in the archives so it is being re-sent.
Risker (Wikimedia-L list admin)
---------- Forwarded message --------- From: Mike Peel email@mikepeel.net Date: Tue, 24 Jun 2025 at 10:51 Subject: [Wikimedia-l] Re: Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees 2025 - Call for Candidates To: Wikimedia Mailing List wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org
Hi all,
Just to note that I won't be running for re-selection, and as Shani has also indicated that she won't be re-running, there will be two new WMF Trustees selected this year.
I want to particularly encourage candidates with community tech, GLAM, and education experience to consider standing this year, as I personally think those are topics that the Board would benefit from continued insights on, and they are areas that Shani and I have been bringing to the Board these last few years. I want to also particularly encourage candidates from underrepresented regions / languages / projects to run.
Through serving on the WMF Board, you get to provide high-level strategic input into the WMF's activities and tackle important global and Wikimedia-wide topics - of which there are many! It's a very worthwhile experience. Just as a reminder: this is a volunteer position.
At the same time, it can be very demanding. I was recently elected to the Royal Astronomical Society's Council (equivalent to its Board), so that is where I will be focusing my board work in the coming few years. I'm also looking forward to being able to take time off work for an actual holiday rather than to attend a Wikimedia conference (although of course, I'll still be using it to take photos for Commons...!). I'm also increasingly active in the topic of satellite constellation impacts in astronomy, which needs more of my time than I currently have available. Plus I want to get back to editing more again!
If you're considering running for the Board, then I'd be happy to chat about my experiences on it over the last three years, and/or make introductions as appropriate. Feel free to share this message with others who you think would be good candidates!
Thanks, Mike
On 17/06/2025 16:42, Elections Committee wrote:
Hello all,
The call for candidates for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection is now open from June 17, 2025 - July 2, 2025 at 11:59 UTC. The Board of Trustees oversees the Wikimedia Foundation's work, and each Trustee serves a three-year term https:// foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Legal:Bylaws#(B)_Term.. This is a volunteer position.
This year, the Wikimedia community will vote starting in August and ending in September 2025 to fill two (2) seats on the Foundation Board. You can see the timeline of the full selection process here https:// meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025#Timeline.
*Traits*
Wikimedia is a global movement and seeks candidates from the broader community. Ideal candidates are thoughtful, respectful, community- oriented and align with the Wikimedia Foundation mission. The Board is looking for candidates with experience guiding organizational strategy, navigating change, and driving long-term strategic objectives. Candidates should think about what experiences and perspectives they will bring to the Board.
The Board would like to find perspectives and voices that are essential but underrepresented in our movement. Accordingly, all candidates will be asked to include statements in their application that speak to their experiences in the world, the perspectives they bring to the movement and share how these help them to include those not already here.
*Time Commitment for Trustees*
Trustees serve a three year term and can serve up to three consecutive terms https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Bylaws#(B)_Term.. The expectation is that Trustees serve on at least one of the Board’s committees https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_committees#Board_of_Trustees_committees. The time commitment is about 150 hours per year, excluding travel. This time is not evenly spread throughout the year. The time is concentrated around meetings.
*Requirements to be a Trustee*
English is the language of business for the Board. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English. Previous experience serving on a collective decision-making body, especially Boards or committees, and significant experience in Wikimedia (or equivalent) movement building and organizing are expected from candidates. You can review the candidate guidelines here. https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/ Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/ Candidate_application
*How to Apply*
Candidates from all projects and communities who meet the criteria to become a Wikimedia Trustee are welcome to apply. Could you - or someone you know - be a good fit to join the Wikimedia Foundation's Board of Trustees? Encourage them to run for election. Candidates can find information and submit their nomination on the candidate application https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application page. If you want to learn more about the role of Trustees or have questions, refer to this candidate resources https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/ Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/ Resources_for_candidates page.
*Community questions for candidates*
The questions for the Board of Trustees candidates to answer have been published as part of the candidate application. From the list of questions submitted by the community, the Election Committee selected 5 questions which the candidates are required to answer. Learn more about the community questions on this Meta-wiki page https:// meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates.
Best regards, Abhishek Suryawanshi On behalf of the Elections Committee and the Governance Committee
Wikimedia-l mailing list -- wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org, guidelines
at: https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Mailing_lists/Guidelines and https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia-l
Public archives at
https://lists.wikimedia.org/hyperkitty/list/wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org/...
To unsubscribe send an email to wikimedia-l-leave@lists.wikimedia.org
_______________________________________________ Wikimedia-l mailing list -- wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org, guidelines at: https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Mailing_lists/Guidelines and https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia-l Public archives at https://lists.wikimedia.org/hyperkitty/list/wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org/... To unsubscribe send an email to wikimedia-l-leave@lists.wikimedia.org
On Tue, Jun 24, 2025 at 4:51 PM Mike Peel email@mikepeel.net wrote:
If you're considering running for the Board, then I'd be happy to chat about my experiences on it over the last three years, and/or make introductions as appropriate. Feel free to share this message with others who you think would be good candidates!
Hi Mike - this is a generous offer, but as time is scarce and your insights precious, maybe it would be good to have you (and Shani) quickly write on what you felt you managed to do and what seems to be harder/impossible to do in a few years, where you would love to maybe advise?
Unfortunately I think most of us have higher expectations from the Board than what is now realistic and moving from the 2030 Movement Strategy to implementations was mostly failing IMHO, with very few exceptions where WMF middle-management actually gave more trust and resources to other entities in Wikimedia and closest allies.
Thank you for your work!
Hi all,
Just to note that I won't be running for re-selection, and as Shani has also indicated that she won't be re-running, there will be two new WMF Trustees selected this year.
I want to particularly encourage candidates with community tech, GLAM, and education experience to consider standing this year, as I personally think those are topics that the Board would benefit from continued insights on, and they are areas that Shani and I have been bringing to the Board these last few years. I want to also particularly encourage candidates from underrepresented regions / languages / projects to run.
Through serving on the WMF Board, you get to provide high-level strategic input into the WMF's activities and tackle important global and Wikimedia-wide topics - of which there are many! It's a very worthwhile experience. Just as a reminder: this is a volunteer position.
At the same time, it can be very demanding. I was recently elected to the Royal Astronomical Society's Council (equivalent to its Board), so that is where I will be focusing my board work in the coming few years. I'm also looking forward to being able to take time off work for an actual holiday rather than to attend a Wikimedia conference (although of course, I'll still be using it to take photos for Commons...!). I'm also increasingly active in the topic of satellite constellation impacts in astronomy, which needs more of my time than I currently have available. Plus I want to get back to editing more again!
If you're considering running for the Board, then I'd be happy to chat about my experiences on it over the last three years, and/or make introductions as appropriate. Feel free to share this message with others who you think would be good candidates!
Thanks, Mike
On 17/06/2025 16:42, Elections Committee wrote:
Hello all,
The call for candidates for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection is now open from June 17, 2025 - July 2, 2025 at 11:59 UTC. The Board of Trustees oversees the Wikimedia Foundation's work, and each Trustee serves a three-year term <https:// foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Legal:Bylaws#(B)_Term.>. This is a volunteer position.
This year, the Wikimedia community will vote starting in August and ending in September 2025 to fill two (2) seats on the Foundation Board. You can see the timeline of the full selection process here <https:// meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025#Timeline>.
*Traits*
Wikimedia is a global movement and seeks candidates from the broader community. Ideal candidates are thoughtful, respectful, community- oriented and align with the Wikimedia Foundation mission. The Board is looking for candidates with experience guiding organizational strategy, navigating change, and driving long-term strategic objectives. Candidates should think about what experiences and perspectives they will bring to the Board.
The Board would like to find perspectives and voices that are essential but underrepresented in our movement. Accordingly, all candidates will be asked to include statements in their application that speak to their experiences in the world, the perspectives they bring to the movement and share how these help them to include those not already here.
*Time Commitment for Trustees*
Trustees serve a three year term and can serve up to three consecutive terms https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Bylaws#(B)_Term.. The expectation is that Trustees serve on at least one of the Board’s committees <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_committees#Board_of_Trustees_committees>. The time commitment is about 150 hours per year, excluding travel. This time is not evenly spread throughout the year. The time is concentrated around meetings.
*Requirements to be a Trustee*
English is the language of business for the Board. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English. Previous experience serving on a collective decision-making body, especially Boards or committees, and significant experience in Wikimedia (or equivalent) movement building and organizing are expected from candidates. You can review the candidate guidelines here. <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/ Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/ Candidate_application>
*How to Apply*
Candidates from all projects and communities who meet the criteria to become a Wikimedia Trustee are welcome to apply. Could you - or someone you know - be a good fit to join the Wikimedia Foundation's Board of Trustees? Encourage them to run for election. Candidates can find information and submit their nomination on the candidate application <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application> page. If you want to learn more about the role of Trustees or have questions, refer to this candidate resources <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/ Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/ Resources_for_candidates> page.
*Community questions for candidates*
The questions for the Board of Trustees candidates to answer have been published as part of the candidate application. From the list of questions submitted by the community, the Election Committee selected 5 questions which the candidates are required to answer. Learn more about the community questions on this Meta-wiki page <https:// meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates>.
Best regards, Abhishek Suryawanshi On behalf of the Elections Committee and the Governance Committee
Wikimedia-l mailing list -- wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org, guidelines at: https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Mailing_lists/Guidelines and https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia-l Public archives at https://lists.wikimedia.org/hyperkitty/list/wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org/... To unsubscribe send an email to wikimedia-l-leave@lists.wikimedia.org
Hi all,
Just to note that I won't be running for re-selection, and as Shani has also indicated that she won't be re-running, there will be two new WMF Trustees selected this year.
I want to particularly encourage candidates with community tech, GLAM, and education experience to consider standing this year, as I personally think those are topics that the Board would benefit from continued insights on, and they are areas that Shani and I have been bringing to the Board these last few years. I want to also particularly encourage candidates from underrepresented regions / languages / projects to run.
Through serving on the WMF Board, you get to provide high-level strategic input into the WMF's activities and tackle important global and Wikimedia-wide topics - of which there are many! It's a very worthwhile experience. Just as a reminder: this is a volunteer position.
At the same time, it can be very demanding. I was recently elected to the Royal Astronomical Society's Council (equivalent to its Board), so that is where I will be focusing my board work in the coming few years. I'm also looking forward to being able to take time off work for an actual holiday rather than to attend a Wikimedia conference (although of course, I'll still be using it to take photos for Commons...!). I'm also increasingly active in the topic of satellite constellation impacts in astronomy, which needs more of my time than I currently have available. Plus I want to get back to editing more again!
If you're considering running for the Board, then I'd be happy to chat about my experiences on it over the last three years, and/or make introductions as appropriate. Feel free to share this message with others who you think would be good candidates!
Thanks, Mike
On 17/06/2025 16:42, Elections Committee wrote:
Hello all,
The call for candidates for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection is now open from June 17, 2025 - July 2, 2025 at 11:59 UTC. The Board of Trustees oversees the Wikimedia Foundation's work, and each Trustee serves a three-year term <https:// foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Legal:Bylaws#(B)_Term.>. This is a volunteer position.
This year, the Wikimedia community will vote starting in August and ending in September 2025 to fill two (2) seats on the Foundation Board. You can see the timeline of the full selection process here <https:// meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025#Timeline>.
*Traits*
Wikimedia is a global movement and seeks candidates from the broader community. Ideal candidates are thoughtful, respectful, community- oriented and align with the Wikimedia Foundation mission. The Board is looking for candidates with experience guiding organizational strategy, navigating change, and driving long-term strategic objectives. Candidates should think about what experiences and perspectives they will bring to the Board.
The Board would like to find perspectives and voices that are essential but underrepresented in our movement. Accordingly, all candidates will be asked to include statements in their application that speak to their experiences in the world, the perspectives they bring to the movement and share how these help them to include those not already here.
*Time Commitment for Trustees*
Trustees serve a three year term and can serve up to three consecutive terms https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Bylaws#(B)_Term.. The expectation is that Trustees serve on at least one of the Board’s committees <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_committees#Board_of_Trustees_committees>. The time commitment is about 150 hours per year, excluding travel. This time is not evenly spread throughout the year. The time is concentrated around meetings.
*Requirements to be a Trustee*
English is the language of business for the Board. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English. Previous experience serving on a collective decision-making body, especially Boards or committees, and significant experience in Wikimedia (or equivalent) movement building and organizing are expected from candidates. You can review the candidate guidelines here. <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/ Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/ Candidate_application>
*How to Apply*
Candidates from all projects and communities who meet the criteria to become a Wikimedia Trustee are welcome to apply. Could you - or someone you know - be a good fit to join the Wikimedia Foundation's Board of Trustees? Encourage them to run for election. Candidates can find information and submit their nomination on the candidate application <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application> page. If you want to learn more about the role of Trustees or have questions, refer to this candidate resources <https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/ Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/ Resources_for_candidates> page.
*Community questions for candidates*
The questions for the Board of Trustees candidates to answer have been published as part of the candidate application. From the list of questions submitted by the community, the Election Committee selected 5 questions which the candidates are required to answer. Learn more about the community questions on this Meta-wiki page <https:// meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/ Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates>.
Best regards, Abhishek Suryawanshi On behalf of the Elections Committee and the Governance Committee
Wikimedia-l mailing list -- wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org, guidelines at: https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Mailing_lists/Guidelines and https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia-l Public archives at https://lists.wikimedia.org/hyperkitty/list/wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org/... To unsubscribe send an email to wikimedia-l-leave@lists.wikimedia.org
On Tue, Jun 24, 2025 at 10:33 PM Mike Peel mpeel@wikimedia.org wrote:
Hi all,
Just to note that I won't be running for re-selection, and as Shani has also indicated that she won't be re-running, there will be two new WMF Trustees selected this year.
I want to particularly encourage candidates with community tech, GLAM, and education experience to consider standing this year, as I personally think those are topics that the Board would benefit from continued insights on, and they are areas that Shani and I have been bringing to the Board these last few years. I want to also particularly encourage candidates from underrepresented regions / languages / projects to run.
Thanks for your service, Mike and Shani. I know that, especially in this global moment, board service is not easy.
What does the rest of the board think the high-priority skill gaps and experience gaps (distinct, though related issues) are?
Luis
Il giorno dom, 29/06/2025 alle 20.23 -0700, Luis Villa ha scritto:
What does the rest of the board think the high-priority skill gaps and experience gaps (distinct, though related issues) are?
The board periodically discusses which qualities, skills or experience are most needed. Given that by the end of the year we have three trustees ending their terms, we have recently had another round of that discussion.
Among the areas of expertise that most trustees find important to look for, some are common board skills (not unique to the WMF board), like: * Risk management * Organizational strategy and management * Board governance
While others are related to more domain-specific knowledge or experience, like: * Public policy and the law * Public relations * Enterprise-level platform technology and/or product development * Open Internet/free and open source software
Both lists are roughly ranked (by number of trustees who said they are among the most important ones).
Lorenzo
At the moment, I imagine experience specifically with large-scale AI, and with state-level influence over information flows, are also relevant?
On Mon, Jun 30, 2025 at 3:52 PM Lorenzo llosa@wikimedia.org wrote:
Il giorno dom, 29/06/2025 alle 20.23 -0700, Luis Villa ha scritto:
What does the rest of the board think the high-priority skill gaps and experience gaps (distinct, though related issues) are?
The board periodically discusses which qualities, skills or experience are most needed. Given that by the end of the year we have three trustees ending their terms, we have recently had another round of that discussion.
Among the areas of expertise that most trustees find important to look for, some are common board skills (not unique to the WMF board), like:
- Risk management
- Organizational strategy and management
- Board governance
While others are related to more domain-specific knowledge or experience, like:
- Public policy and the law
- Public relations
- Enterprise-level platform technology and/or product development
- Open Internet/free and open source software
Both lists are roughly ranked (by number of trustees who said they are among the most important ones).
Lorenzo
-- Lorenzo Losa Chair-elect, Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees
Wikimedia-l mailing list -- wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org, guidelines at: https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Mailing_lists/Guidelines and https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia-l Public archives at https://lists.wikimedia.org/hyperkitty/list/wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org/... To unsubscribe send an email to wikimedia-l-leave@lists.wikimedia.org
Hi all,
The Elections Committee, in consultation with the Governance Committee, has decided to extend the call for candidates period for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025 until Tuesday, July 8, 23:59 AoE (Wednesday, July 9, 11:59 UTC), from the original deadline of Tuesday, July 1, 23:59 AoE (Wednesday, July 2, 11:59 UTC).
This decision was based on the fact that the application process this year is more complex for prospective candidates, particularly with the inclusion of community-sourced questions https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates within the candidate form, and feedback from members of the Wikimedia project communities and affiliates. With this extension, prospective candidates will have more time to fill out their candidacy applications and submit their proof of identity https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application#How_to_submit_proof_of_identity .
Please find more information about the call for candidates on Meta-wiki https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application#Candidate_application, including the link to submit your candidacy application.
On behalf of the Elections Committee and Governance Committee,
Abhishek Suryawanshi
Chair, Elections Committee
On Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at 11:42:54 AM UTC-4 Elections Committee wrote:
Hello all,
The call for candidates for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection is now open from June 17, 2025 - July 2, 2025 at 11:59 UTC. The Board of Trustees oversees the Wikimedia Foundation's work, and each Trustee serves a three-year term https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Legal:Bylaws#(B)_Term.. This is a volunteer position.
This year, the Wikimedia community will vote starting in August and ending in September 2025 to fill two (2) seats on the Foundation Board. You can see the timeline of the full selection process here https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025#Timeline .
*Traits*
Wikimedia is a global movement and seeks candidates from the broader community. Ideal candidates are thoughtful, respectful, community-oriented and align with the Wikimedia Foundation mission. The Board is looking for candidates with experience guiding organizational strategy, navigating change, and driving long-term strategic objectives. Candidates should think about what experiences and perspectives they will bring to the Board.
The Board would like to find perspectives and voices that are essential but underrepresented in our movement. Accordingly, all candidates will be asked to include statements in their application that speak to their experiences in the world, the perspectives they bring to the movement and share how these help them to include those not already here.
*Time Commitment for Trustees*
Trustees serve a three year term and can serve up to three consecutive terms https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Bylaws#(B)_Term.. The expectation is that Trustees serve on at least one of the Board’s committees https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_committees#Board_of_Trustees_committees. The time commitment is about 150 hours per year, excluding travel. This time is not evenly spread throughout the year. The time is concentrated around meetings.
*Requirements to be a Trustee*
English is the language of business for the Board. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English. Previous experience serving on a collective decision-making body, especially Boards or committees, and significant experience in Wikimedia (or equivalent) movement building and organizing are expected from candidates. You can review the candidate guidelines here. https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application
*How to Apply*
Candidates from all projects and communities who meet the criteria to become a Wikimedia Trustee are welcome to apply. Could you - or someone you know - be a good fit to join the Wikimedia Foundation's Board of Trustees? Encourage them to run for election. Candidates can find information and submit their nomination on the candidate application https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application page. If you want to learn more about the role of Trustees or have questions, refer to this candidate resources https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Resources_for_candidates page.
*Community questions for candidates*
The questions for the Board of Trustees candidates to answer have been published as part of the candidate application. From the list of questions submitted by the community, the Election Committee selected 5 questions which the candidates are required to answer. Learn more about the community questions on this Meta-wiki page https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates .
Best regards, Abhishek Suryawanshi On behalf of the Elections Committee and the Governance Committee
Hello all,
The Call for Candidates for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection is now closed. After verification by the Elections Committee and the Wikimedia Foundation, 12 (twelve) candidates are eligible. In order to be eligible, all candidates had to complete the required questions in the candidate application and meet the eligibility criteria https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application#Candidate_criteria .
See the list of the all eligible candidates on this meta-wiki page https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidates and learn more about the experience, diversity, and expertise they hope to bring to the Board.
As we have more than 10 eligible candidates, a shortlisting process https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Shortlisting_process will take place. Representatives of Wikimedia movement affiliates that are currently compliant with their reporting obligations (list of all Affiliates currently compliant https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Wikimedia_movement_affiliates/Affiliates_Status_Report/Archive/2025-07) will soon receive a communication detailing how they can participate in the shortlisting process.
Key dates of the next steps:
-
July 15 – 28: Shortlisting process
-
By July 29: Announcement of the final list of 6 (six) shortlisted candidates -
July 29 – August 26: Campaigning period -
August 27 – September 10: Voting period
Learn more about the full timeline on this meta-wiki page https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025#Timeline .
On behalf of the Elections Committee,
Abhishek Suryawanshi
On Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at 11:42:54 AM UTC-4 Elections Committee wrote:
Hello all,
The call for candidates for the 2025 Wikimedia Foundation Board of Trustees selection is now open from June 17, 2025 - July 2, 2025 at 11:59 UTC. The Board of Trustees oversees the Wikimedia Foundation's work, and each Trustee serves a three-year term https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Legal:Bylaws#(B)_Term.. This is a volunteer position.
This year, the Wikimedia community will vote starting in August and ending in September 2025 to fill two (2) seats on the Foundation Board. You can see the timeline of the full selection process here https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025#Timeline .
*Traits*
Wikimedia is a global movement and seeks candidates from the broader community. Ideal candidates are thoughtful, respectful, community-oriented and align with the Wikimedia Foundation mission. The Board is looking for candidates with experience guiding organizational strategy, navigating change, and driving long-term strategic objectives. Candidates should think about what experiences and perspectives they will bring to the Board.
The Board would like to find perspectives and voices that are essential but underrepresented in our movement. Accordingly, all candidates will be asked to include statements in their application that speak to their experiences in the world, the perspectives they bring to the movement and share how these help them to include those not already here.
*Time Commitment for Trustees*
Trustees serve a three year term and can serve up to three consecutive terms https://foundation.wikimedia.org/wiki/Bylaws#(B)_Term.. The expectation is that Trustees serve on at least one of the Board’s committees https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_committees#Board_of_Trustees_committees. The time commitment is about 150 hours per year, excluding travel. This time is not evenly spread throughout the year. The time is concentrated around meetings.
*Requirements to be a Trustee*
English is the language of business for the Board. Candidates must be fluent in written and spoken English. Previous experience serving on a collective decision-making body, especially Boards or committees, and significant experience in Wikimedia (or equivalent) movement building and organizing are expected from candidates. You can review the candidate guidelines here. https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application
*How to Apply*
Candidates from all projects and communities who meet the criteria to become a Wikimedia Trustee are welcome to apply. Could you - or someone you know - be a good fit to join the Wikimedia Foundation's Board of Trustees? Encourage them to run for election. Candidates can find information and submit their nomination on the candidate application https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Candidate_application page. If you want to learn more about the role of Trustees or have questions, refer to this candidate resources https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Resources_for_candidates page.
*Community questions for candidates*
The questions for the Board of Trustees candidates to answer have been published as part of the candidate application. From the list of questions submitted by the community, the Election Committee selected 5 questions which the candidates are required to answer. Learn more about the community questions on this Meta-wiki page https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:MyLanguage/Wikimedia_Foundation_elections/2025/Questions_for_candidates .
Best regards, Abhishek Suryawanshi On behalf of the Elections Committee and the Governance Committee
wikimedia-l@lists.wikimedia.org