Abubakar Kamal is an educator and IT professional committed to shaping the future of technology through teaching and innovation. With a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology (BSIT) and ongoing Master’s studies (MSIT), he possesses a deep understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of the field.
Currently, Abubakar lectures undergraduate students, delivering complex IT concepts in an accessible and engaging way. His teaching is heavily influenced by his work as an application developer, where he actively builds software solutions to address real-world challenges. This practical experience allows him to mentor his students effectively, providing them with insights into the life cycle of software development. Abubakar believes in the power of education and code to drive change, and he looks forward to contributing to the community at NetMission Academy.
Aleena Mehmood is an undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a strong interest in the intersection of technology, policy, and society. Her academic focus includes machine learning, data analysis, and understanding how emerging technologies shape the digital economy.
As a graduate of NetMission Academy, Aleena engaged with global discussions on internet governance, digital policy, and the challenges introduced by rapidly evolving technologies. Through the program, she collaborated with peers from diverse backgrounds and explored key issues such as AI governance, digital misinformation, and responsible technology development.
Aleena is particularly interested in how artificial intelligence can be applied ethically to solve real-world problems while ensuring accountability, transparency, and digital safety. She hopes to continue contributing to conversations on responsible innovation and the future of the internet, while working toward building technologies that support inclusive and sustainable digital development worldwide.
Amisha Mittal is a Research Analyst at The Pranava Institute. As a researcher, Amisha looks forward to exploring how human behaviour, across cultures and contexts, shapes the design and deployment of Emotional AI. Emotional AI raises important questions about how machines perceive and simulate human emotions, and she is particularly interested in examining the cultural dimensions of this technology and its implications for policy. She looks forward to engaging with diverse stakeholders and build research on the ethical, social, and legal frameworks that can guide the future of technology.
Curiosity, creativity, and a passion for the digital world drive Amrita Adhikari, a Computer Science student who enjoys turning ideas into code and learning into impact. Whether experimenting with web development or exploring technologies, Amrita believes that every challenge in coding is simply another puzzle waiting to be solved.
Beyond the screen, Amrita is passionate about empowering others through technology. She has introduced young learners to programming during Hour of Code sessions, guiding them to create games with Scratch while also raising awareness about internet safety and responsible digital behavior.
Her journey with NetMission Academy expanded her perspective on digital citizenship, internet governance, and the importance of building a safer and more inclusive online space. Through this experience, she strengthened her leadership, communication, and advocacy skills while connecting with inspiring fellows from around the world.
You will often see Amrita learning, building, and using technology to create positive change in the digital society
Chris (they/them) is a campaign strategist and researcher working at the intersection of digital rights, disability justice, and access to knowledge. Fluent in six languages, they bring a deep commitment to equity across their work—from grassroots mobilisation to internet governance. They believe in being a good neighbour and this what largely informs their worldview.
As a 2026 Fellow at Netmission Academy, Chris is engaging with critical conversations on Internet Governance in the Asia-Pacific and youth participation in digital policy spaces. This builds on their recent role supporting the Platform Accountability Campaign at Point of View. Their core interest lies in Cooperatives and Platform Labour. They are also currently exploring Cooperative AI and what a community centric approach can offer the AI ecosystem.
Their experience includes designing digital advocacy campaigns around Human rights, climate action and gender justice, and contributing to open knowledge ecosystems. Chris has also worked in publishing, supporting authors through the editorial process.
Across campaigning, policy, and storytelling, their work is rooted in abolitionist feminist praxis and a belief in collective futures. As a Netmission Ambassador, they are eager to connect with changemakers across APAC advocating for a just digital world.
Dahyun is a researcher and policy practitioner interested in internet governance, digital policy, and the intersection of technology and democratic institutions. She completed her studies at Ewha Womans University in Seoul, where she majored in Political Science while pursuing interdisciplinary work in law, public leadership, and justice through the Scranton Honors Program.
Her academic and professional work focuses on issues such as online misinformation, deepfakes, and the governance challenges emerging from rapidly evolving digital technologies. Dahyun has previously engaged with global digital policy discussions through programs and events related to internet governance, including the Internet Governance Forum (IGF). She has also contributed to research and policy discussions on data governance and digital sovereignty.
Through the NetMission Academy Fellowship, she further explored regional perspectives on digital governance and youth engagement in shaping the future of the internet. Dahyun hopes to continue working at the intersection of law, technology, and international policy to support a more open, secure, and inclusive digital ecosystem.
Dhirendra Singh Dhami is a tech and digital community enthusiast focused on using technology for social impact, learning, and collaboration. He is currently pursuing his Bachelor’s degree in Information Management, where he is actively involved in activities concerning digital literacy, digital governance, and innovation within the digital community. He has developed new insights on how to address internet governance, digital ecosystems, and digital participation across the globe, thanks to his involvement with the NetMission Academy 2026 program. He is passionate about linking technology with social development, communities, and innovation led by the youth. As a NetMission Ambassador, he is dedicated to fostering responsible internet use, sharing of knowledge, and inclusive digital collaboration, while continuing his quest for new technology and its social impact.
A human rights practitioner and writer, Emaan focuses on child protection, gender justice, and digital inclusion in Pakistan. At the National Commission for Human Rights, she’s led initiatives such as Pakistan’s first complaint cell for women journalists, statewide investigations of prisons, and tech hackathons with the Supreme Court. Her work blends storytelling, policy reform, and on-ground investigation to centre the voices of those most often silenced—from juvenile prisoners and irregular migrants to bonded labourers and survivors of forced marriage.
En-Li Su is a Computer Science and Information Engineering student at National Taiwan Normal University, focusing on the intersection of technical implementation and digital policy. He possesses a strong foundation in information security and is passionate about the evolution of emerging technologies.
En-Li is an active contributor to Taiwan’s tech community, serving as staff for major conferences like SITCON, COSCUP, and HITCON. A dedicated advocate for digital privacy, he established the first Tor relay node within the Taiwan Academic Network (TANet), bridging the gap between technical infrastructure and human rights.
As a NetMission Ambassador, En-Li leverages his technical expertise to drive digital inclusion and cybersecurity. He aims to empower youth voices in shaping a secure, transparent, and inclusive digital future for all.
Evasana Pradhan is a Front-End Engineer and youth advocate committed to advancing meaningful inclusive and accessible technology. Beyond her technical role, she actively champions meaningful youth participation, digital inclusion, and gender equity in tech.
She was selected as an APRIGF Fellow 2025, strengthening her engagement in regional internet governance dialogues. She is also a recipient of the AnitaB.org Systers Pass It On Award, recognizing her efforts to empower women and underrepresented communities in technology, along with being a Harvard HPAIR 25 alumni and Aspire Leader. As a graduate of NetMission Academy 2026, she has deepened her understanding of the multistakeholder model and the intersection of policy and technology. Evasana aspires to contribute to global conversations that ensure the internet remains open, secure, and inclusive for all.
Fahra Zahra Alya is a youth advocate from Indonesia specializing in media and journalism. She is currently studying Communication at Gunadarma University and has been actively involved in initiatives that promote youth empowerment, freedom of expression, and inclusive dialogue.
Beyond her academic background, Fahra has developed experience in diplomacy, regional collaboration, and negotiation through her participation in international youth programs and leadership initiatives. She has contributed to discussions and projects that encourage critical thinking, civic engagement, and cross-border cooperation among young people.
NetMission Academy marks Fahra’s first formal experience exploring Internet governance. Through the program, she gained insight into digital policy, multistakeholder collaboration, and the importance of youth participation in shaping the future of the internet. Fahra hopes to continue contributing to conversations on digital governance while encouraging more young people to engage in policy discussions that influence the digital ecosystem.
Himaja Chanda is an Electronics and Communication Engineering student at Dhanekula Institute of Engineering and Technology, affiliated with JNTU Kakinada, India. She has a strong interest in Internet governance, digital policy, and emerging technologies. Himaja has actively engaged in global digital policy discussions through programs such as NetMission Academy and ICANN fellowship initiatives, where she explored topics including Internet governance frameworks, multi-stakeholder collaboration, and digital public infrastructure.
She has also completed several certifications in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and data technologies. In addition to her academic work, Himaja has participated in various technical internships and conferences related to Internet infrastructure, cybersecurity, and digital development.
Through NetMission Academy, she strengthened her understanding of Internet governance in the Asia-Pacific region and connected with a diverse community of young leaders and policy enthusiasts. Himaja aims to continue contributing to discussions on building an open, inclusive, and accessible Internet for everyone.
Iffat Nowshin Joye (she/her/they) is based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. She is pursuing her master’s degree in Information Science and Library Management from the University of Dhaka. Her work is rooted in digital rights and community-centric advocacy, focusing on documenting digital harm while advancing democracy and inclusion. Currently involved as an Audio-Visual Archivist at the Bangladesh Protest Archive, Joye bridges the gap between grassroots protest documentation and strategic campaigning. She blends her academic research, specifically regarding digital literacy and the societal impacts of AI, technology, and women, with creative advocacy to develop human-centered solutions for our evolving digital landscape.
As a NetMission Ambassador and a contributor to regional internet governance, Joye is committed to strengthening the digital ecosystem by aligning technological progress with policy frameworks that prioritize safety, transparency, and accessibility. Driven by the belief that the internet is a vital tool for social good, she aims to bridge the divide between high-level governance and the reality of lived experience. Her core purpose is to contribute to a global digital ecosystem that protects human rights, empowers users, and amplifies diverse voices through proactive, inclusive engagement.
Janeeta Ahmad Awan is a digital media professional with a strong passion for bridging the gap between digital governance and policymaking. With over four years of experience in community engagement, she has actively worked with youth and communities to raise awareness about social, environmental, and digital issues. Her work focuses on using media, storytelling, and dialogue to encourage informed participation in public discourse.
Janeeta believes that in the digital age, inclusive and responsible digital spaces are essential for building stronger and more equitable societies. She advocates for digital platforms that allow diverse voices to participate in conversations around governance, climate action, and social development. Through her work in media and community initiatives, she strives to ensure that technology and digital policies are shaped in ways that are accessible, ethical, and people-centered.
She is committed to promoting inclusivity, believing that the digital world should be a safe and empowering space where everyone has the opportunity to participate and be heard.
Kuhaneetha Bai is an analyst and researcher focused on the intersections of technology, security, governance, and sustainability. An International Relations graduate from Universiti Malaya, she draws from a diverse professional background spanning research institutes, organisations, consultancies, and NGOs.
As a Youth IRL Fellow, Kuhaneetha champions online safety within Malaysian communities. Her research portfolio is equally broad, covering global economics, geopolitics, outer space and nuclear policies, and digital sociology. Driven by a passion for youth empowerment, she consistently leads initiatives across the Asia-Pacific to mobilize the next generation of leaders.
Now joining NetMission Asia as an Ambassador, Kuhaneetha aims to bridge the gap between discourse and impact, fostering collaborative action to advance robust Internet governance throughout the region.
Maho is an MBA student specializing in Strategy and Digital Business. With 7+ years of experience in digital marketing and cross-border e-commerce across Asia, she has led projects in tech, healthcare, and consumer goods. Currently President of the University Women in Leadership Club, she champions gender equity and inclusive leadership. Through her current internship as Project Manager at Singapore General Hospital, she applies AI in healthcare to mitigate the progression of dementia and foster responsible, purpose-driven innovation in Singapore.
Manas Joshi is a technology and public policy professional working at the intersection of digital infrastructure, data systems, and governance. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering from the College of Engineering, Pune, and a postgraduate certificate in Public Policy and Management from the Indian Institute of Management Nagpur.
Manas has experience across the public, private, and social sectors, having worked with the Government of Maharashtra as a Chief Minister’s Fellow and currently with the Government of India on technology and digital policy initiatives. He has also contributed to data-driven initiatives at SaveLIFE Foundation in road safety monitoring and at Credit Suisse in reporting automation and compliance analytics.
He is actively engaged in Internet Governance spaces. Manas has participated in APIGA India 2025 and Youth IGF India 2024 and is a member of the Internet Society Mumbai Chapter. His interests include digital public infrastructure, universal acceptance, and strengthening multilingual and inclusive Internet ecosystems, particularly in the Global South.
Maulidya Alhidayah is a media and communication enthusiast with a strong passion for civil society empowerment and community development. She holds an MA in Communication and Media from the University of Leeds and has previously worked with civil society organizations focusing on peace education and democratic issues. She has also been actively engaged in digital literacy initiatives and is currently exploring digital movements in postcolonial societies.
Minji is a freshman majoring in Data Science at Sookmyung Women’s University, with strong interests in AI governance, cybersecurity, and digital trust. She is passionate about exploring how emerging technologies shape society and how policy frameworks can ensure their responsible and ethical development.
Through her academic studies and extracurricular activities, she has been developing analytical skills and a deeper understanding of data-driven decision-making. She is particularly interested in the intersection of technology and policy, focusing on issues such as algorithmic accountability, privacy protection, and the governance of artificial intelligence systems.
Through her participation in NetMission Academy, she has expanded her global awareness and strengthened her commitment to multistakeholder cooperation. She aspires to become a leader who fosters trustworthy digital ecosystems by connecting data expertise with policy insight and promoting meaningful dialogue at both national and international levels.
Om Prakash Sharma is passionate about digital inclusion, he believes that equitable access to the internet and computers can transform lives and unlock opportunities for communities. With Nepal’s internet penetration at only about 51.6% and limited access to computers among rural youth, Om is committed to bridging the digital divide through technology, policy engagement, and community initiatives.
He currently works as a Lead AI/ML Engineer at acAIberry Technologies, where he develops scalable AI systems and real-time data solutions. He also contributes to smart-city initiatives in Kathmandu by designing computer-vision-based traffic analytics systems to support evidence-based urban planning.
Beyond technical work, Om actively participates in global internet governance and youth engagement programs, advocating for an open, inclusive, and secure internet. Through research, community leadership, and technology innovation, he strives to empower underserved communities and ensure that digital opportunities reach everyone.
Pann is an emerging researcher from Myanmar specializing in human rights, digital rights and international relations. Graduated bachelor’s degree in international relations and development, she is working at Youth Society for Education as a Public Relations Team Leader, supplying community needs especially in education due to conflicts.
Her research interest includes Civil Society Organizations, authoritarianism and human rights. Her goal is to become a policy analyst who knows what the needs of the community are and give the best solutions.
Prashansa is a networking and cybersecurity professional with a strong interest in Internet governance and digital development. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Computer Networking and Cybersecurity. With a technical background in network infrastructure and security, she is passionate about understanding how the Internet functions and how policies shape its development.
Alongside her professional work, she actively engages in Internet governance and community discussions that focus on digital inclusion, community connectivity, and strengthening the Internet ecosystem. She is particularly interested in bridging the gap between technical communities and policy spaces to support a more open, secure, and accessible Internet.
She also enjoys sharing knowledge and supporting learning within the tech community. Through her work and community involvement, she hopes to contribute to meaningful conversations around the future of the Internet and its role in empowering communities.
Rekha Angdembe is a student of Electronics, Communication and Information Engineering from Nepal with a strong interest in technology, digital governance, and digital public infrastructure. She is passionate about how technology can support inclusive development and strengthen digital ecosystems in emerging economies. Rekha has experience working with web technologies and is particularly interested in areas such as digital policy, internet governance, and digital innovation.
She has also been involved in technology and digital initiatives, including working in digital marketing and exploring modern web development tools such as the MERN stack. Through her participation in NetMission Academy, Rekha has expanded her understanding of global internet governance, ICANN processes, and the importance of multistakeholder collaboration in shaping the future of the internet.
Rekha aims to contribute to building an open, secure, and inclusive digital environment, particularly in Nepal and the Asia-Pacific region, by engaging in digital policy discussions and promoting responsible technology development.
Sadik Hasan Abir is a dynamic communications professional with a strong background in strategic communication, digital marketing, and the NGO sector. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Social Science in Journalism, Media, and Communication at Daffodil International University. Dedicated to driving strategic policy advocacy, Sadik has contributed to impactful research and awareness campaigns in collaboration with major organizations like the UNDP, ILO, WHO, and the Government of Bangladesh. His commitment to social cohesion and community building is evident through his roles as an OMLAS Champion Fellow for One Million Leaders Asia and a Youth Mental Health Fellow with the Psycure Fellowship. A skilled digital storyteller and public relations leader, Sadik has also served as the Public Relation Secretary for the Daffodil Film Society. He is passionate about using his expertise in content writing, fact-checking, and event management to foster positive community engagement and drive meaningful changes.
Samuel is a Malaysian youth leader. He is an electrical and electronic engineering student who passionate about digital innovation for sustainable development. Born in a rural community in Sarawak, he is committed to bridging the digital divide and empowering underserved communities through technology, policy awareness, and youth engagement.
Samuel has represented Malaysia in regional initiatives including the ASEAN Data Science Explorers and the ASEAN-Japan Youth Environmental Leaders Network, contributing to projects on carbon tracking, ocean conservation, and green cities. A national innovation competition finalist and environmental advocate, he combines technical expertise in AI and data analytics with grassroots experience.
Through NetMission Academy, Samuel seeks to advance inclusive digital governance, cybersecurity awareness, and responsible technology use among youth. He aspires to collaborate globally to build resilient, equitable, and sustainable digital societies.
Sawera Masood, from Pakistan, is a Computer Science student at Air University, Islamabad, with a strong passion for digital technologies, internet governance, and ethical innovation. She is committed to empowering youth by promoting digital awareness, online safety, and responsible technology use. As an ambassador of NetMission Academy, Sawera actively participated in sessions, collaborative discussions, and subgroup activities focused on digital rights and global internet development. She contributed to team presentations, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and awareness campaigns, demonstrating leadership, teamwork, and effective communication skills. Alongside her ambassadorial journey, she has developed technical projects in web development, programming,cybersecurity, and database systems, showcasing her dedication to learning and professional growth. Sawera aspires to leverage her technical and leadership skills to create meaningful technological solutions, advance a safe and inclusive digital environment, and empower future generations through innovation, collaboration, and ethical technology practices worldwide.
Shiang Yen Eow is a Malaysian civil society practitioner committed to advancing youth empowerment, social cohesion, freedom of religion or belief, and the prevention and countering of violent extremism. He serves as a researcher at the Initiative to Promote Tolerance and Prevent Violence (INITIATE.MY), where he contributes to program development, data-driven analysis, and stakeholder consultations on peacebuilding and tech-facilitated harm.
He also sits on the Executive Committee of the Malaysian Youth Council (MBM), the national umbrella body representing youth organisations in Malaysia, where he engages in national-level youth leadership and policy advocacy. With a background in interfaith dialogue and youth leadership, he works at the intersection of religion, policy, and community resilience.
He has previously served as General Secretary of the Young Buddhist Association of Malaysia (YBAM) and Honorary Treasurer of the Malaysian Buddhist Consultative Council (MBCC). He is currently pursuing a PhD in Community Nutrition at Universiti Putra Malaysia, focusing on maternal and infant gut health.
Shreejita is a forensic science undergraduate with a growing interest in the intersection of technology, policy, and digital governance. As a graduate of the NetMission Academy Fellowship, she engaged in global discussions on internet governance, digital rights, and emerging policy challenges shaping the online ecosystem. Through collaborative research, mentorship, and cross-cultural exchanges, she developed a deeper understanding of multi stakeholder decision-making and responsible digital participation.
Academically, her interests lie in forensic biology and investigative sciences, alongside an evolving curiosity about how technological advancements influence justice systems and public policy. She is passionate about research, knowledge dissemination, and science communication, aiming to make complex scientific and digital policy concepts more accessible to wider audiences.
Shreejita aspires to contribute to evidence-based policymaking and interdisciplinary research that bridges science, technology, and society while promoting ethical and inclusive digital spaces.
Shreya Gupta is an MBA graduate from the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, where she also served as the President of the Pride Club, leading initiatives focused on inclusion and community engagement. She holds another Master’s degree in Mass Communication and is deeply interested in the intersection of public policy, technology, and gender.
Her work focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence for social impact, including building tools that enable gender and climate-sensitive policy analysis. She has also contributed to projects aligned with India’s National Education Policy, particularly in advancing vocational and skill-based education.
Shreya is passionate about shaping equitable and inclusive policy systems, with a long-term focus on feminist and climate policy across India and the Asia-Pacific region.
Shubhi Agrawal is an AI researcher with the Cambridge Centre for Alternative Finance at the University of Cambridge. Her research focuses on AI governance and its intersection with evolving intellectual property, technology law, and Internet governance frameworks. She holds an LL.M. in Intellectual Property and Technology Law from King’s College London and a B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) from Jindal Global Law School.
Her work focuses on emerging technology regulation, and she is particularly interested in research around AI governance and its intersection with evolving intellectual property and technology law issues, as well as Internet governance. Her Research explores how legal and policy frameworks can adapt to ensure responsible innovation while protecting public interest in rapidly evolving digital ecosystems.
Through initiatives such as NetMission.Asia and other Internet governance engagements, Shubhi actively supports youth participation in global digital policy discussions and contributes to conversations on building more inclusive and accountable digital governance frameworks.
Shweta is a Bachelor of Cyber Security student at Deakin University, Australia, specialising in network security. Her interest in Internet governance took shape through APIGA Australia and NetMission Academy, where she engaged with multistakeholder discussions on digital infrastructure, DNS ecosystems, and global policy coordination.
What began as a technical pursuit in securing networks evolved into a deeper commitment to understanding how governance frameworks influence trust, access, and accountability online. These experiences strengthened her conviction that cybersecurity cannot be separated from the policy environments that sustain the Internet.
Shweta is driven to bridge technical expertise with governance leadership, ensuring that security conversations remain inclusive, forward-looking, and responsive to emerging challenges. She sees Internet governance as more than a forum for dialogue, it is a responsibility to help shape a resilient, trusted, and equitable digital future.
Siyoun Kim is a mathematics student at the University of Toronto specializing in probability and statistics with a strong interest in cybersecurity, digital governance, and technology risk. His work focuses on understanding how emerging technologies, digital infrastructure, and governance frameworks shape security and resilience in complex systems. Siyoun has contributed to cybersecurity and technology policy research as a Research Intern at the National Cyber Security Laboratory in South Korea, where he supported analysis on national AI readiness, digital infrastructure risks, and international cybersecurity cooperation. He previously served as a KATUSA Sergeant in the Emergency Department at Brian D. Allgood Army Community Hospital, where he supported operational processes and data-driven decision making in a high-acuity healthcare environment. Siyoun is also the founder of the Network for Empowering eXceptional Talent (NEXT-A), an initiative supporting youth collaboration in cybersecurity, technology policy, and international cooperation.
SoHee is a South Korean graduate student who studies the intersection of politics and emerging technologies. She earned her B.A. and M.A. at Ewha Womans University and will begin her Ph.D. in Fall 2026. Her research examines how digital technologies accelerate autocratization across diverse political systems in the Asia-Pacific region. She also explores how public-sector uses of technology—such as digital public infrastructure (DPI) and military applications—affect democratic stability and democratic backsliding.
Taruna Kaur Bamrah, a computer applications student at DAV College, Amritsar, is a NetMission Academy 2026 Ambassador and passionate tech policy advocate from rural Punjab. Since 2023, she has engaged deeply with Internet governance through ICANN Learn courses, the UA Day for APAC Youth virtual event, and Youth IGF and discovering her calling to bridge digital gaps that affect her own community.
As a resident witnessing Punjab’s connectivity challenges firsthand, she is driven to champion equitable Internet access and AI ethics for underserved regions. As an NCC Cadet, she has delivered sessions on digital equality and AI etc to over 120 students from rural Punjab, amplifying awareness on critical IG issues. She has also participated in hackathons designing projects that bridge real-life gaps and serve community needs.
In NetMission Academy 2026, she contributed to discussions on ICANN policies, DNS coordination, and multistakeholder models, representing Asia Pacific youth perspectives on access and empowerment. With programming skills in many languages, she aims to build capacity in her regional space.
Vannakrothchanthyda Soth is a passionate advocate for inclusive internet governance and a recent graduate of the NetMission Academy. Although she has a background in civil engineering, she is driven by the belief that the digital world belongs to everyone and that the responsibility of shaping its future is a collective one. To her, internet governance is a truly universal field where diversity of thought is the greatest strength.
Throughout her journey with NetMission, she recognizes that the internet’s development requires a wide range of perspectives to remain open and secure. Moving forward, she remains passionate about continuing her learning journey and is committed to encouraging more young people to join the dialogue.
Vinay Aseri is an Assistant Professor of Cyber Security and Digital Forensics and a techno-policy researcher specializing in Internet governance, cybersecurity policy, and the protection of critical information infrastructure. He is affiliated with National Forensic Sciences University, an Institution of National Importance under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. His work focuses on the governance of emerging digital technologies, cyber resilience, and policy frameworks for safeguarding critical digital infrastructure and law enforcement systems.
Vinay has contributed extensively to academic and policy discourse through more than 40 research publications, including journal articles, book chapters, and edited volumes on cybersecurity, digital governance, and forensic technologies. He actively engages in international academic collaborations, conferences, and policy discussions related to cyber governance and technology-driven security.
As a participant of NetMission Academy, Vinay contributes to multistakeholder dialogue on Internet governance and works to advance inclusive, secure, and resilient digital ecosystems in the evolving global digital landscape.
Waleed Mukhtar is an undergraduate from Pakistan currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security at Air University.
Waleed has actively engaged in youth and global digital policy discussions, including Global Ethics Forum 2025, Youth IGF 2025, APIGA 2026 facilitators Group, Google Developer Groups, Ethical AI Systems by Pranava Institute as well as several local events such as AIR NEXUS 2024 & 2026 and AIR TECH 2025. He has earned certifications in Google Cyber Security & Cyber Attacks NY University courses. He has also done volunteer work in Donation Drives within his university to support people around him. Outside his academic interests, Waleed is also an active sports person with achievements in cricket, futsal and table tennis.
Through NetMission, Waleed hopes to further contribute to meaningful discussions, initiatives and support a more open, secure, and inclusive Internet for communities worldwide.
Yashika Sharma is a final-year Computer Science and Engineering (Cyber Security) student at the National Forensic Sciences University, Delhi Campus, India. Her interest spans in cybersecurity, digital forensics, and internet governance, and in understanding how technology affects access, rights, and everyday life.
During her time at NetMission.Asia Academy, Yashika explored how the internet shapes opportunities and empowerment through real-world case studies and group discussions. The program helped her better understand how issues like access, inclusion, and policy decisions directly impact communities. She also valued the structured format of the sessions, which encouraged consistency and active participation.
Yashika appreciated learning from experienced speakers and collaborating with peers from different backgrounds, which broadened her perspective beyond technical fields. She hopes to continue building skills that connect cybersecurity and digital forensics with policy and governance, and to contribute to more inclusive and responsible digital systems.
Zakia Rahimi is an Afghan computer scientist and advocate for digital rights, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Finance at the Asian University for Women in Bangladesh. As a 2026 cohort graduate of the NetMission Academy, she combines her technical expertise in Artificial intelligence and Machine learning with a passion for internet governance. Zakia is dedicated to shaping inclusive digital policies that ensure safe and equitable online spaces for all. Her work champions the protection of digital rights, empowering marginalized communities to navigate and benefit from the digital world responsibly.
Zishan Nadaf is a postgraduate scholar in Political Science from India, currently studying at Pondicherry University. His work centers on Internet governance, digital rights, and decentralized policy frameworks that promote inclusive and equitable access. He is particularly interested in how multistakeholder governance can integrate local dialects, community knowledge systems, and cultural contexts into digital policy while preserving local identities in an increasingly platform-driven world.
Zishan participated in the Youth IGF India, engaging in discussions on cybersecurity, data governance, and meaningful connectivity. He presented “Governing the Digital Commons” at the 7th Digital Citizen Summit, applying community-based governance principles to digital public infrastructure. As a fellow of NetMission.Asia Academy, he contributes to research-driven dialogue that advances youth participation, multilingual inclusion, and sustainable digital governance from a Global South perspective.
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