Introducing our third cohort of Data Values Advocates, young leaders working to make sure data benefits everyone equally.
Data shapes every aspect of our lives—from the algorithms that determine what we see online to the systems that decide who gets loans, healthcare, or housing. Yet the people most affected by these data-driven decisions are rarely engaged in shaping them.
When data systems are built without community voices, and those of young people who will inherit these digital futures, the results are predictable: bias becomes embedded in code, exclusion becomes policy, and inequality is automated at scale.
Since 2022, the Data Values Advocates Program has supported 13 young data advocates from around the world to deliver community projects rooted in the Data Values Manifesto. Their work has challenged inequities and shown what’s possible when people help decide how data about them is collected, governed, and used.
Alumni of the program have created tangible change. From improved local water access so women and girls can spend more time at school or work, to new approaches to include disability data in decision making, and community-driven initiatives that give people a say in how their data is used.
A new chapter in 2025
In 2025, we’ll scale the program to a dual-track cohort, bringing together grassroots advocates selected through our global open call and institutional advocates—young professionals nominated by civil society and public- and private-sector institutions.
Meet our 2025 cohort
This year, we welcome seven new advocates—a dynamic group of grassroots leaders and institutional changemakers from across the globe. Over the coming months, they will develop a project plan to implement the Data Values Manifesto in their local contexts or organizations, fostering meaningful action.
Venus is passionate about using geospatial data to promote climate change and social justice, with a special focus on empowering women and girls in marginalized communities.
"A fair data future is important because it empowers marginalized voices, especially women and girls, to shape inclusive policies that drive their communities, drive climate action, and unlock access to clean energy, ultimately creating a world where every single voice is heard and valued."
Patricia is a dedicated advocate for peacebuilding and the ethical use of data to drive social transformation. With a background in public administration, community intervention projects, and civil society organizations, she has identified critical challenges in how information is managed and understood.
"History shows us that data holds a double edge: it can empower or marginalize. It is our responsibility to society to decide how we wield this powerful tool for the greater good."
Mirado is passionate about making data literacy accessible, upskilling, and inspiring the next generation of data professionals. Mirado has led projects on data literacy, digital inclusion, and youth empowerment, and is deeply committed to data ethics — ensuring data serves people, not the other way around.
“A fairer data future means everyone — no matter where they live — can understand, question, and use data to improve their lives. Data should serve people first, empowering communities while creating opportunities rather than exploiting them.”
Erick is a dedicated disability rights advocate with lived experience in advancing inclusive participation of persons with disabilities in development processes. Currently supporting programs, monitoring, evaluation, research, learning, and adaptation at the United Disabled Persons of Kenya (UDPK), Erick is keen on advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in all spheres of life.
"Achieving a fairer data future will ensure better livelihoods and resilience of persons with disabilities. Correct usage of data is impactful to many lives, as it informs development processes in any society."
Riana is a data professional at the Open Government Partnership (OGP), where she maintains a vast and open data infrastructure on government commitments made with civil society, and helps drive analysis to promote open governance in over 70 countries. With a background in International Relations and Sociology, Riana focuses on using data to foster participation, transparency, accountability, and inclusion in an international context.
“Data can foster equity, openness, and sustainability–yet it is often commoditized for the benefit of the few. Achieving a fairer data future means using data to drive equitable and collective change in society.”
Avani works at the intersection of policy, research, and community collaboration to develop models of data governance that reflect the needs of people it affects. At Aapti Institute, she develops participatory governance tools, maps shared data value chains, and ensures stakeholder perspectives shape practical outcomes.
“Data shapes decisions about our lives, often without our knowledge or say. In a fairer data future, where communities can influence how data is governed, we can build utility-driven systems that distribute value equitably.”
Lydia is a community builder, design coach, and facilitator whose work is grounded in the realities of grassroots change. For years, she has worked on the frontlines with diverse communities, transforming lived experience into strategic action that delivers measurable, sustainable impact.
“Because fair data gives the full picture. When everyone counts, decisions reflect reality, communities thrive, and no one is left behind. Fair data makes the invisible visible, gives voice to the voiceless, makes development inclusive, and shifts power to all.”
This program is committed to sustaining a community of passionate individuals dedicated to promoting equitable, ethical, and responsible data systems. As part of our efforts to maintain and engage our growing advocate community beyond the duration of the program, we also formed the Data Values Advocate Alumni Network, where past advocates can continue to engage and gain support to demand a fairer data future.
Learn more about the Data Values Advocates Program and get involved with the Data Values Project here.
