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Yacouba Traoré

What skills will I contribute to the NCF Board?

As the Executive Director of Carlington Community Health Centre and former Executive Director of the Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre, I bring deep experience in governance, strategic planning, community engagement, and innovation. My background also includes a seven-year tenure as a Program Manager at the Ontario Trillium Foundation, where I supported capacity-building across the nonprofit sector. More recently, I cofounded the Centre for Excellence in Nonprofit AI, where we work with mission-driven organizations to explore ethical, effective uses of technology. This experience equips me to support NCF’s continued evolution as both a service provider and a digital equity advocate.

What are the most important functions of NCF for its members?

In my view, NCF plays a critical role in promoting equitable access to affordable internet and digital tools in Ottawa, services that are essential for social and economic participation in today’s world. Beyond infrastructure, NCF fosters a community-owned, values-driven approach to connectivity, resisting the market-driven logic of commercial providers. For members, this means not only access to reliable service, but a voice in governance and a stake in building a more democratic digital future.

Why do you want to be an NCF director?

I believe that access to digital infrastructure is a public good, and that organizations like NCF are key to ensuring everyone, regardless of income or background, can participate in the digital age. As a nonprofit leader committed to social justice, and as someone who works daily with communities impacted by digital exclusion, I see a strong alignment between my values and NCF’s mandate. Joining the Board would be a way for me to support local digital equity efforts and contribute strategic insight as NCF navigates new opportunities and challenges.

I am enthusiastic about the chance to bring my experience and passion to NCF’s Board. Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can support NCF’s mission and community.

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