Open

The Internet Society (ISOC) is a global not-for-profit organization founded in the early 1990s by Internet pioneers Vint Cerf and Bob Kahn with a vision of making the Internet an open and empowering tool for people, communities, and civil society. Built on the principles of inclusivity and transparency, ISOC has been a key technical and advocacy contributor to the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process and continues to uphold the multistakeholder model of Internet governance that later led to the formation of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF).

The Internet Society India Mumbai Chapter, established in 2017 under the leadership of Prateek Pathak, localizes ISOCʼs global mission by addressing the needs, issues, and aspirations of communities in Maharashtra and adjoining regions. What began as a group of 25 members has grown into one of Indiaʼs most dynamic chapters, drawing voluntary participation from across the country – from Ladakh to Assam, Delhi to Bhopal – with a special focus on underrepresented communities in the Internet ecosystem.

The Chapterʼs leadership, initiated by its founder and strengthened by successive elected members, has consistently provided the mentorship and strategic guidance required for sustainable growth. Supported by an active advisory committee, the Chapter has built robust and reliable processes. Notably, ISOC India Mumbai remains the only ISOC Chapter in the world led entirely by women, committed to advancing a better Internet through inclusive, capable leadership.

The Chapter comprises over 100 members, including students, professionals, educators, technologists, digital rights advocates, and leaders from Fortune 500 companies and government institutions, united by a shared commitment to shaping the Internetʼs future through education, collaboration, and leadership. Membership is open, diverse, and youth- focused, with a special emphasis on engaging individuals from underserved regions and those new to Internet governance.

ISOC India Mumbai actively supports its members in building skills, networks, and opportunities to participate in key global, regional, and national platforms, including ICANN, the United Nations, WSIS+20, APrIGF, APAN, NetMission.Asia, NIXI, and inSIG. Through mentorship, training, and exposure, members are empowered to translate the vision of “Internet for everyone” into practical, on-ground action.

Impact:

Over the past seven years, the Internet Society India Mumbai Chapter has evolved into a vibrant community with a truly global reach. Driven by collaboration and consistent effort, the Chapter has hosted over 100 events and published more than 60 reports and editions, including the flagship Heterotopia.

The Chapterʼs initiatives have actively advanced youth participation, womenʼs leadership, and greater diversity in technology and Internet governance. Today, our volunteers span 20 cities across five countries and three continents, amplifying voices and ideas that shape the Internetʼs future. Many of them have gone on to establish new ICANN At-Large Structures (ALSes) and take up leadership roles in renowned Internet governance and policy organisations, reflecting the Chapterʼs lasting influence and mentorship-driven growth.

Through dialogues, workshops, and learning programmes, weʼve connected with over 100K people worldwide. From quantum physics to public policy, our speakers and collaborators reflect the depth and diversity of our mission: to build an open, inclusive, and globally connected Internet for all.

The Chapter collaborates with academic institutions, civil society organizations, government bodies, policy think tanks, and individuals who share its vision of a safe, ethical, and inclusive Internet. These partnerships not only strengthen innovation and dialogue but also ensure meaningful benefits for end users, creating a positive feedback loop for continuous improvement.

For collaboration opportunities, please contact us at: https://isocindiamumbai.org/ Together, we can build an Internet that truly includes everyone.