The Open Mapping Gurus are more than just skilled mappers—they are trusted local leaders, mentors, and catalysts for community resilience through open data. They are the ones we activate in times of disaster, who rally communities for climate action, and who champion inclusive mapping where it's needed most. As we move from short-term project engagements to long-term, sustainable community impact, we must also grow this powerful network—starting with identifying and supporting the next generation of Gurus.

This workshop invites participants to take part in the next chapter of the Open Mapping Guru movement: expanding the model beyond Asia-Pacific and growing a vibrant network in Africa. The session draws from the Asia-Pacific Open Mapping Hub’s 2025–2030 Community Building Strategy, while exploring how its principles—local leadership, inclusive participation, and data for community action—can be adapted to African contexts and realities.

With early interest from mappers in countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda, and growing momentum for cross-regional mentorship, this is the moment to scale the Guru model. The session will explore:

What makes a strong Open Mapping Guru?
How can we recruit, train, and support new Gurus in Africa?
What regional or global challenges can Gurus help address together?
How do we sustain Gurus beyond projects—through leadership development, recognition, and peer networks?

Participants will use interactive frameworks, reflection tools, and community stories to:

Identify opportunities to recruit and grow Guru circles in their countries
Align their community needs with the regional strategy goals
Explore ways to collaborate across borders and continents
Build a roadmap to support locally driven, globally connected Guru communities

This session is not just a training—it’s a recruitment rally, a movement-building moment, and an invitation to help shape the future of the Open Mapping Guru project in Africa and beyond. Join us if you're ready to lead, grow, and bring others with you.

The OpenStreetMap Foundation plays a crucial role in supporting the global OSM community, yet many active mappers remain unclear about its functions and how they can participate beyond membership. This interactive workshop aims to demystify the OSMF and provide ways for meaningful involvement.
We'll start with an overview of OSMF's structure, responsibilities, and decision-making processes, addressing common misconceptions about what the Foundation does and doesn't do. The session will then shift its focus to practical participation opportunities, including joining working groups, contributing to policy discussions, and participating in Board elections.
The workshop will also feature volunteers from various OSMF working groups who will share their personal journeys and experiences. Attendees will have opportunities to ask questions, identify areas that match their interests and skills, and understand how their participation can strengthen African representation within the Foundation.
Whether you're an OSMF member who only votes annually or a long-time mapper who's never joined, this session will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to take your next step.