As societies grapple with the transformative effects of data and data-driven technology, the need to challenge underlying power structures in data systems has never been more crucial. Unfortunately, too many people are still excluded from data design, collection, and use and are ultimately harmed by data’s unfair and inequitable use. Community-led action is key to creating data systems that empower rather than harm—and across the globe, young grassroots activists and community leaders are recognizing the potential of data to bring about positive change for their communities. The Data Values Advocates Program was set up to support and harness the power of these leaders in creating a fairer data future.
The Data Values Advocates program is a core part of the Data Values Project, a global movement working to create a fairer data future and to ensure that those most affected by unequal and unfair data processes are at the forefront of shaping a more equitable world.
The Data Values Advocates Program was developed to support people, especially young people and those often marginalized or from underrepresented communities, to have a voice in data and participate meaningfully in how data is designed, collected, managed and used. The program is structured around supporting a small cohort of advocates selected each year from around the world to lead locally based projects that promote and implement the Data Values Manifesto—a shared agenda developed by hundreds of organizations focused on equitable data norms, rights, and governance practices. Through the program, advocates are supported with bespoke training, mentorship from leaders in the field, microgrants for community interventions, stipends for their time and efforts, opportunities to network and an international platform to share their stories.
