There’s something about the Digital Rights and Inclusion Forum (DRIF) that refuses to be boxed in. No two editions ever look the same and that is exactly the point. As DRIF26 draws closer, we caught up with Co-Chair Judith Ogutu, Senior Communications Manager at Paradigm Initiative (PIN), to get a feel for what’s coming:

DRIF26 is almost here. What are you most excited about for this edition?

I’m excited about the entire event. DRIF events are never the same, and this is what makes the forum unique. One can never quite tell how the next one will turn out but there is always anticipation of it turning out great. Fortunately, this has been the trend over the past editions that I have attended. What usually stands out for me is the energy which delegates bring to the event, individuals who attend, organisations that are represented, discussions that are held, products that are launched, illuminating reports that are unveiled and community feedback that we receive year in, year out. 

This year, we are heading to a Francophone country. What does that mean for you as an individual and the PIN team in general? As an individual, I’m mostly curious and looking forward to attending and being part of the event. For the PIN team, this means putting our best foot forward, just like we have always done in the past editions. Although the country and region may be different, with a different context and operating environment, DRIF is the same event and so is  our commitment, delivery, output, attitude, and drive.

Can you share one new feature, session, or twist that attendees can look forward to?

DRIF is an experience. They need to be there to soak it all in. We look forward to hosting them and they can be sure this edition will be our best yet.

Are there any new communications initiatives, campaigns, or interactive elements participants should watch out for?

We always love our delegates to connect with each other, benefit from the rich networking opportunities the forum presents and advance themselves, and the organisations they represent. We kick-started a unique way of doing this in 2025, which saw the winner clinch the Golden Ticket, and 80 super-engaged delegates, who went home with some prizes too. This year, we will be providing a platform where our delegates can experience DRIF as a journey to move through intentionally, thoughtfully and collectively.

Are there any fun plans or surprises you can tease for DRIF26?

Surprises are meant to be surprises. Let me just say we look forward to hosting our delegates.