DCW Board Elections/2025/Ikhlas

Ikhlas

Summary	Personal: name: Ikhlas location: Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir languages: Kashmiri, English, Urdu Editorial: Wikimedian since: 13 May 2022 UG degree: Bachelor's in Zoology
Mandatory questions
Why are you running for the DCW Board? What unique contributions do you bring to the role? What areas would you like to learn more about?	I am running for the DCW Board because I believe in the importance of preserving and documenting the scholarly and cultural heritage associated with global Muslim academia and scholarship. As a Wikimedia contributor and movement organizer, I have seen firsthand how structured initiatives can bridge knowledge gaps and create sustainable impact.
Please describe your Wikimedia experience (such as contributions to the Wikimedia projects, activities as a Wikimedia movement organizer, or other relevant participation).	I have contributed in both content and leadership related areas. Content Contributions: I have actively contributed to Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons, and other Wikimedia projects, focusing on topics related to Kashmiri heritage, Islamic scholarship, and underrepresented knowledge areas. Organizing Photo Walks & Workshops: I have led initiatives to document local heritage by supporting individuals in capturing and uploading media files to Wikimedia Commons. These activities involve conducting training sessions and ensuring that participants understand licensing, categorization, and metadata best practices.
From your perspective, what should the Deoband Community Wikimedia prioritize over the next 3 to 6 years? Why do you consider these priorities to be the most important?	In my understanding, the following are some potential priorities that the DCW could focus on in the next 3-6 years. Expanding Digital Documentation of Global Muslim Academia and Scholarship: There is still a significant gap in structured and well-sourced documentation of scholarly and cultural contributions in this field. Strengthening efforts to create and curate high-quality content on Wikipedia, Wikisource, and Wikimedia Commons is essential. Community Growth & Capacity Building: Encouraging new contributors, particularly from regions historically underrepresented in Wikimedia, will ensure the sustainability of DCW's work. Organizing training workshops, edit-a-thons, and mentorship programs will empower more individuals to contribute effectively. Strategic Partnerships & Outreach: Collaboration with academic institutions, libraries, and cultural organizations can amplify DCW's impact. Partnering with scholars and experts will also help improve content accuracy and reliability.
Optional questions - Professional Experience and Education
Describe your educational background, including degrees, certificates, and courses of study finished, and their relevance to board work.	I hold a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Zoology from Kashmir University. My studies have equipped me with strong analytical and research skills, as well as a deep understanding of environmental and biological systems. This background is valuable in board work, especially in areas related to sustainability, conservation, education, and science-driven decision-making. Additionally, my expertise in web development and SEO allows me to enhance digital communication and outreach, ensuring organizations effectively connect with their audience and stakeholders.
Describe your experience in making impactful decisions.	My decision-making process is rooted in analyzing available data, considering potential outcomes, and balancing logic with intuition. I approach impactful decisions by: Gathering Information: I ensure I have all relevant details before making a choice. Weighing Pros and Cons: I consider possible consequences and long-term effects. Considering Multiple Perspectives : I evaluate different viewpoints to avoid bias. Taking Calculated Risks: I make informed choices while minimizing potential downsides. Learning from Outcomes: I assess results to refine future decision-making.
Outline your career experience and key roles you have held.
Provide two examples where you successfully addressed or advised on complex organizational challenges. How did you collaborate with others to resolve these issues?
Add any relevant links describing your professional background, experience, profile (such as LinkedIn, etc.).
Optional questions - Leadership and Strategic Thinking
How have you been able to empower people to make their voices heard?	I empower individuals to express their thoughts effectively by providing clear information, refining their communication, and guiding them on the best platforms to share their voices. I also help overcome language and technical barriers, ensuring that everyone can participate in meaningful discussions with confidence.
In professional settings, personality conflicts can arise. How do you stay productive and maintain effectiveness in such situations?	In professional settings, I handle personality conflicts by staying calm, focusing on the work, and maintaining open communication. I prioritize professionalism, actively listen to different perspectives, and seek common ground to resolve issues. If conflicts persist, I approach them with a solution-oriented mindset and, when necessary, involve a neutral party to mediate. By keeping emotions in check and concentrating on shared goals, I ensure productivity and teamwork remain unaffected.
Describe ways in which you have helped to form a bridge between multiple communities.	I have helped build connections between different communities by promoting open communication, fostering mutual understanding, and creating collaborative opportunities. Through organizing events, facilitating discussions, and sharing valuable resources, I have encouraged diverse groups to work together toward common goals. Additionally, by leveraging digital platforms, I have helped amplify voices and bridge gaps, ensuring that different communities can engage, learn, and grow together in a meaningful way.
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