The Canadian Internet Registration Authority plays many rolls. First and foremost in peoples minds would be the .ca domain. Whether it be working with domain registrars, or helping the small business get going on the web, CIRA offers a vast array of information and services.

The CIRA focus on cybersecurity is critical. I admire the Canadian solutions stance, and the focus on keeping Canadian organizations safe. The protection of our most vulnerable citizens through education is priceless.

As a not-for-profit, CIRA has successfully managed funds such that they are able to provide grants for underserved communities in Canada.

I think my favorite quote is this:

“We like to imagine a connected future where the internet empowers people to reach their economic, social and cultural goals. Our job is to ensure it’s a trusted internet for all Canadians.”

I have thought many times over the years about applying to become a CIRA Board Director. Life got in the way – so busy. But, always, in the back of my mind that I could contribute and be of value on this board. That time has come.

I have extensive experience on both governance and working boards. I have worked on many subcommittees – from marketing to finance.

In previous board roles I have learned the importance of preparing for meetings, contributing at meetings, and learning as much as I can about the organization. This means you walk into a meeting prepared and knowledgeable and ready to effectively contribute. A director on a board is not a fancy title, it is a job. And, if you are passionate about the organization, that job is joy. I am passionate about Canada, the Internet, and CIRA.

My qualifications, beside having an IT background and extensive not-for-profit experience both as an employee and a volunteer, is quite diverse. I have an good understanding of finances and best practices in accounting and financial management. Development and implementation of policies and procedures at the not-for-profit has been a role I have participated in several times. And, I am no stranger to strategic plans and the value a strong plan has in the future of the organization.

Not in any particular order:
Cybercrime – we are inundated on a daily basis with phishing, smishing, ransomware, fraud (both on the internet and phone), the list goes on. We might also consider cyber bullying and stalking in this category. I volunteered with Victim Services for many years. Between losing large sums of money and youth being bullied, I know the importance of education in cybercrime for everyone. The opportunity for CIRA is to partner with various organizations in the ongoing development of education and tools to continue the war against cybercriminals.

Artificial Intelligence – AI has blasted into our lives dramatically recently. In listening to people discuss AI most are confused by it, scared of it, they don’t understand it. I sit on a national working group in the real estate industry that is discussing the merits of AI in the industry, the implementation of LLM in producing market information, and the security of the data being fed into an AI system. CIRA can play a unique role in helping Canadians understand what AI is, how it affects them, and what to be wary of. CIRA is in a unique position to facilitate the development of policies for responsible AI development.

Digital Inequality – a catch phrase, but still true in many areas of Canada. Whether it is the cost of connectivity or the access to reliable internet service we, as a nation, need to work on resolving this issue. The NetGood program is a awesome- it needs to go further.