Dominican educator and disability inclusion advocate Beverly Leblanc has represented Dominica at the Internet Society Community Advocacy Workshop held in Brussels, Belgium, from October 13 to 15, 2026. She was selected through the Internet Society Community Advocacy Fellowship and was the only participant from Dominica at the international gathering.
The workshop brought together advocates from across the world to strengthen skills in digital policy advocacy, with a focus on internet governance, access, and inclusion. Leblanc's participation places Dominica within international conversations on how small island states can shape digital policy that serves all citizens, including persons with disabilities.
Leblanc is known locally for her work in education and for championing the rights of persons with disabilities. Her selection for the fellowship reflects recognition of that work at the international level and offers an opportunity to bring global best practices back to Dominica.
The Internet Society Community Advocacy Fellowship supports individuals who are working to advance an open, globally connected, secure, and trustworthy internet in their communities. Fellows receive training and mentoring to help them engage effectively with policymakers and other stakeholders.
For Dominica, participation in such workshops is significant as the country continues to develop its digital economy and improve internet access across the island. The knowledge gained can inform local advocacy on issues such as affordable connectivity, digital literacy, and the inclusion of marginalised groups in the digital space.
Leblanc's attendance in Brussels also highlights the role that Dominican civil society can play in regional and international forums. Small island developing states often face unique challenges in digital development, and having a voice in global discussions helps ensure that their perspectives are considered.
The workshop concluded on October 15, and Leblanc is expected to share insights from the event with local stakeholders in the coming weeks. Her participation is part of a broader effort to build capacity in Dominica for digital advocacy and policy engagement.
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