Wikipedian at Large – How to apply

Applications for the Wikipedian at Large are now open, and close on 30 September 2024.

The Wikipedian at Large role is a roving advocate for Wikimedia platforms and content projects for groups and organisations around a region or even the whole country – a helping hand with outreach and development and supported by WANZ. Like a Wikipedian in Residence, they can work inside an institution to share content, train staff, and run outreach events.

The role moves quickly, doing shorter projects than a traditional Wikipedian in Residence, with the flexibility to involve different groups in different ways. They mainly work under their own steam, with some administrative support from WANZ.

The Wikipedian in Large needs to measure and report on their goals during their term, and make a final report once finished.

We fund one Wikipedian at Large role per year – usually six months but potentially longer – and open a call for proposals in July. We’re interested in getting proposals from anyone who cares about getting more people editing and more of Aotearoa New Zealand’s stories told through the Wikiverse.

Like we Wiki editors say, Be Bold! WANZ will consider all proposals seriously. If you have any questions or would like advice on putting together your proposal, email info@wikimedia.nz.

Full details of the role and process

Developing your proposal

A Wikipedian at Large should have:

  • Experience editing Wikimedia platforms including at least one of Wikipedia, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons, and Wikisource
  • Experience in training others, giving presentations, and writing reports
  • Desire to develop their leadership, including proactively liaising with institutions and diverse community groups
  • An interest in engaging with media to promote the Wikiverse and their activities

Also, tell us where you would like support to build your skills. We can assist and link you up with other editors for training with specific sites, and potentially provide funding for workshops on other topics.

We can only fund projects and activities that are exclusively charitable, and meet our objectives as a charitable organisation.

Proposals should show how you’ll:

  • Promote the use of Wikimedia Foundation platforms in Aotearoa New Zealand
  • Recruit and support new editors, especially in locations there aren’t many now
  • Connect existing editors to build the community
  • Help drive content projects forward and inspire and encourage editors to fill gaps in how the Wikiverse covers Aotearoa New Zealand
  • Get priority groups more involved as editors and organisers, including Māori and Pasifika, LGBTQIA+, and disability communities

It should contain:

  • An overall summary
  • A statement of your experience and skills
  • An initial project plan
  • How you will measure progress towards the project’s goals
  • A proposed budget
  • What services you expect to need from WANZ

Apply to become Wikipedian at Large

This funding is available to members of Wikimedia Aotearoa New Zealand. Non-members are welcome to apply, but must join if your proposal is accepted.

You might find it helpful to discuss your idea with us or other Wikipedians before you apply. Email info@wikimedia.nz and we’ll see about arranging a chat, or attend a meetup.

Read the full details of the role and process, and make sure your proposal matches our requirements.

Email your application to info@wikimedia.nz by 30 September 2024. We expect to announce our decision by 15 October 2024.