Trust Principles guardians appoint trustee from Africa

She is Ory Okolloh (photo), a Kenyan activist, Harvard Law School graduate and blogger who lives in South Africa and serves as director of investments at Omidyar Network, a California-based philanthropic investment firm. Her appointment will take effect on 1 June.

“Okolloh has a long track record of working at the intersection of government affairs and technology,” the company said. “Prior to joining Omidyar Network, she served as Google’s policy manager for Africa. When Kenya was engulfed in violence following a disputed presidential election in 2007, she helped create Ushahidi (Swahili: ‘Witness’), a website that recorded eyewitness reports of violence using text messages and Google Maps. The technology has since been adapted in a number of other countries for different purposes, including monitoring elections and tracking pharmaceutical availability.”

In 2006 she co-founded the parliamentary watchdog site Mzalendo (Swahili for Patriot), which sought to increase accountability by recording governmental bills, speeches and standing orders.

Uffe Ellemann-Jensen, chairman of the Founders Share Company’s board, said: “A true pioneer in technology and philanthropy, Ory Okolloh’s creative insight, global perspective and sharp sense of accountability will be a valuable addition to the Thomson Reuters Founders Share Company’s Board of Directors. We are pleased to welcome her.” ■