- In an important recognition of the dedication and service of veterans in the field of Internet governance, Manal Ismail was awarded the 2024 ICANN Community Excellence Award.
- The selection panel, composed of representatives from ICANN supporting organizations and advisory committees, praised Ismail’s ability to navigate the complex dynamics of ICANN’s multi-stakeholder community.
- Manal Ismail’s story is a testament to the power of commitment and the impact of collective action in the changing Internet governance landscape.
Awards recognition for Manal Ismail
In an acknowledgment of dedication and service, Manal Ismail, a prominent figure in the realm of Internet governance, has been honoured with the ICANN Community Excellence Award 2024. The announcement took place during the ICANN79 Welcome Ceremony in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on March 4, 2024, shining a spotlight on Ismail’s steadfast commitment to ICANN’s multistakeholder model and her significant role in policymaking within the ICANN ecosystem.
Pioneering contributions to internet governance
Manal Ismail’s extensive tenure with ICANN, representing Egypt in the Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC) since 2002, underscores her deep involvement and contributions to the landscape of internet governance. Serving as GAC chair from November 2017 to March 2023, Ismail played a crucial part in shaping policies aimed at ensuring a secure, stable, and globally unified internet. Her leadership roles in the IANA Stewardship Transition Coordination Group and as vice chair of the inaugural Accountability and Transparency Review Team further demonstrate her dedication to internet governance. Ismail’s active participation in the ccNSO Policy Development Process on Internationalized Domain Names (IDN) working group highlights her commitment to fostering inclusive and accessible internet policies.
Advocate for multicultural collaboration
The selection panel, composed of representatives from ICANN Supporting Organizations and Advisory Committees, praised Ismail for her adept navigation of the intricate dynamics within ICANN’s multistakeholder community. Her efforts in the Arabic script IDN working group were particularly lauded for promoting a more inclusive internet environment that respects linguistic diversity. This recognition from ICANN not only celebrates Ismail’s individual achievements but also underscores the significance of collaborative and inclusive policy-making in the digital era.
