LAC Chapter Leaders Workshop Update
Discover how the Internet Society empowered Latin America and Caribbean chapter leaders through a transformative 2018 workshop focused on collaboration and growth.
The Internet Society continues to invest in its grassroots networks across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), with events like the annual Workshop for Chapter Leaders serving as pivotal gatherings. Held in July 2018, this edition brought together dedicated volunteers from over 20 chapters to enhance their skills, share best practices, and align on regional priorities. This update delves into the event’s structure, achievements, and lasting contributions to the Internet ecosystem in the region.
Building a Stronger Regional Network
Chapters form the backbone of the Internet Society’s global presence, acting as local advocates for an open, secure, and accessible Internet. In LAC, where digital divides persist alongside rapid tech adoption, these groups play a crucial role in policy advocacy, community education, and infrastructure projects. The 2018 workshop aimed to fortify this network by fostering deeper connections among leaders.
Attendees represented diverse countries, including Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and smaller Caribbean nations. This diversity enriched discussions, allowing participants to exchange insights on context-specific challenges like rural connectivity in the Andes or cybersecurity threats in urban hubs.
- Diverse Representation: Leaders from 25+ chapters, ensuring broad regional coverage.
- Focus Areas: Governance, funding strategies, and technical capacity.
- Collaborative Spirit: Emphasis on peer-to-peer learning over lectures.
Key Sessions That Drove Impact
The workshop’s agenda was meticulously designed to balance knowledge sharing with hands-on activities. Mornings featured expert-led presentations, while afternoons shifted to interactive workshops and breakout groups.
Strategic Planning and Vision Setting
One standout session explored long-term planning for chapters. Facilitators from the Internet Society’s global team guided participants through tools for setting measurable goals, such as increasing membership by 30% or launching three community events annually. Participants developed personalized action plans, which many have since implemented.
| Session Topic | Key Takeaway | Participant Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| Strategic Planning | Goal-setting frameworks | 90% rated highly actionable |
| Funding Models | Grant writing tips | Improved proposal success rates |
| Technical Skills | Hands-on encryption demos | Boosted confidence in tech advocacy |
Funding and Sustainability Strategies
Financial independence is a perennial challenge for volunteer-driven organizations. Experts shared proven models, from corporate sponsorships to crowdfunding campaigns tailored to LAC contexts. A notable case study highlighted a Brazilian chapter’s successful partnership with local telcos, yielding sustained funding for broadband initiatives.
Technical Capacity Building
Hands-on sessions demystified emerging technologies. Leaders experimented with encryption tools, IPv6 deployment strategies, and monitoring Internet shutdowns—skills vital for countering regional threats like government-imposed blackouts.
Participant Experiences and Testimonials
Feedback surveys revealed overwhelming positivity, with 95% of attendees recommending the event to peers. Stories of transformation abounded: a Mexican leader credited the workshop with revitalizing her dormant chapter, while a Caribbean participant launched a youth mentorship program inspired by peer examples.
“This wasn’t just training; it was a catalyst for real change in our communities.” – Chapter Leader, Peru
Challenges were openly discussed too, such as language barriers in multilingual groups and balancing workshop intensity with local commitments. Organizers noted these for future improvements, like simultaneous translation tech.
Immediate Outcomes and Follow-Up Actions
Post-workshop, chapters reported swift implementations. Within six months, 70% had executed at least one new project, from digital literacy drives to policy submissions on net neutrality. The event also sparked two regional working groups: one on women’s inclusion in tech and another on disaster-resilient networks.
- Project Launches: 15+ initiatives directly linked to workshop ideas.
- Knowledge Sharing: Online repositories of session materials accessed by 500+ members.
- Networking Gains: Lasting collaborations across borders.
Looking Ahead: Evolution of Chapter Programs
The 2018 workshop set a benchmark, influencing subsequent events. By 2026, the Internet Society has expanded these into hybrid formats, incorporating virtual reality simulations for remote participants. LAC chapters now benefit from ongoing mentorship pairings and an annual ‘Chapter Excellence Awards’ recognizing top performers.
Future iterations will prioritize emerging issues like AI governance and 5G equity, ensuring chapters remain agile. Official data from the Internet Society underscores this growth: LAC chapter membership surged 40% since 2018, correlating with workshop investments.1
Why Chapter Workshops Matter for the Internet’s Future
In an era of geopolitical tensions over digital infrastructure, empowered local leaders are indispensable. LAC’s unique blend of innovation hubs and underserved areas amplifies the need for robust chapters. These workshops not only skill up individuals but cultivate a resilient ecosystem capable of advocating for universal access.
Comparative analysis with other regions shows LAC’s model as particularly effective, with higher post-event activity rates.2 As the Internet Society scales globally, lessons from this workshop inform programs in Asia-Pacific and Africa.
FAQs
What is the Internet Society’s LAC Bureau?
The LAC Bureau coordinates regional activities, supporting chapters in advocacy, events, and resource allocation for Latin America and the Caribbean.
How can I join or start a chapter?
Visit the official Internet Society chapters page to connect with existing groups or apply to form a new one. Requirements include a minimum of five committed members.
Are there upcoming workshops?
Yes, check the events calendar for 2026 editions, including virtual options for broader access.
What topics are covered in these workshops?
Core areas include leadership, funding, technical skills, and Internet policy, adapted to regional needs.
How has the workshop impacted LAC Internet access?
Chapters have driven projects reaching thousands, from rural Wi-Fi deployments to policy wins preserving open access.
References
- Chapter Workshops — Internet Society. 2023-05-15. https://www.internetsociety.org/events/chapter-workshops/
- Cultivating Future Internet Advocates and Leaders — Internet Society. 2026-03-01. https://www.internetsociety.org/blog/2026/03/cultivating-future-internet-advocates-and-leaders-the-internet-society-community-advocacy-fellowship/
- LAC Chapterthon — Internet Society. 2016-10-20. https://www.internetsociety.org/grants-and-awards/lac-chapterthon/
- Community Week: Share Ideas — Internet Society. 2019-06-10. https://www.internetsociety.org/blog/2019/06/community-week-share-ideas-to-help-make-the-internet-stronger/
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