The Community That Changed How I See the Internet
Being selected as an ARIN 57 Fellow was both an honor and an eye‑opening experience. Attending my first ARIN meeting in Louisville, Kentucky, marked a turning point in how I understand the Internet — not just as technology, but as a living, collaborative ecosystem.
From User to Steward
With more than 30 years of experience in ICT, I believed I had a solid grasp of how the Internet works. I quickly realized how much more there was to learn. Before ARIN 57, the Internet was something I consumed through an ISP. After the meeting, I began to see it as something we can — and must — actively participate in shaping.
From my very first interaction in Louisville, the closeness of the ARIN community stood out. The breadth and depth of knowledge in the space was impressive, but even more striking was the willingness to share. Although policy development is central to ARIN’s work, the meeting struck an ideal balance by blending policy discussions with technical workshops and real‑world case studies. This made the experience accessible, practical, and deeply relevant.
What resonated most was the realization that the systems keeping the Internet functional don’t operate on autopilot. They depend on thoughtful processes, and, more importantly, on engaged people. Every community member plays a role in ensuring the Internet remains resilient, secure, and functional across the ARIN region.
Powered by People
I am especially grateful to Senior Project Manager Amanda Gauldin and Director of Caribbean Affairs Bevil Wooding, along with all the other ARIN staff involved, for making the Fellowship possible. The warmth shown by the broader ARIN community, which welcomed me and the other ARIN 57 Fellows so openly, immediately expanded my professional network. Equally deserving recognition are the Mentors who prepared us to participate meaningfully; their guidance made a real difference.
Perhaps the most lasting impact of ARIN 57 is how it reframed participation from a Caribbean perspective. The meeting revealed clear opportunities — and responsibilities — for greater regional involvement in Internet governance and development. Meaningful participation from the Caribbean is not optional if we want the evolution of Internet technology to remain aligned with our regional needs and aspirations.
They say first impressions are lasting. ARIN 57 certainly made a great impression on me! It sparked my curiosity, reshaped my understanding, and drew me into a global community I’m eager to keep contributing to.
Ready to experience the ARIN Fellowship for yourself? Stay tuned for announcement of the ARIN 58 program application period this summer! For details and application instructions, visit our Fellowship Program page.
Any views, positions, statements, or opinions of a guest blog post are those of the author alone and do not represent those of ARIN. ARIN does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or validity of any claims or statements, nor shall ARIN be liable for any representations, omissions, or errors contained in a guest blog post.
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