Oversight Board/2026-2027-candidates/Candidate Name

Candidates

1. Makho Mashoba

I, Makho Mashoba, seek election to the Board of Directors of Sugar Labs because I believe every child deserves access to the tools that will define their future—especially artificial intelligence. My career has been rooted in building AI systems that make complex information accessible, intuitive, and empowering. From developing data-intensive analytics platforms to leading engineering teams, I’ve seen firsthand how technology can unlock understanding when designed with compassion and curiosity at its core.

My commitment to children’s learning predates my work in technology. Before entering AI, I spent years working in daycares and volunteering with youth programs. Those experiences shaped my belief that children are naturally inventive thinkers—they simply need environments that nurture exploration. Sugar Labs embodies this philosophy, and I want to help extend that mission globally.

Today, AI is becoming a universal language. If children—regardless of geography, income, or circumstance—can learn to create with AI rather than merely consume it, we give them agency in a rapidly changing world. I want to bring my expertise in AI, open-source development, and educational innovation to Sugar Labs to help build tools, curricula, and community partnerships that make this possible.

I am committed to helping Sugar Labs empower the next generation of thinkers, builders, and dreamers. With a foundation in early childhood work, a career in advanced technology, and a passion for global youth empowerment, I hope to serve as a bridge between what children imagine and what they can create.

2. Elvis Udaigwe

I, Elvis Udaigwe, am applying to join the Board of Directors of Sugar Labs because I am passionate about empowering children through technology and hands-on learning. From a young age, I was curious and eager to learn, and the opportunities I had to explore technology shaped my path. Those experiences allowed me to gain skills in software development, work as a web developer and data analyst, and eventually mentor others in technology.

Through mentoring young Africans in the Google Africa Developer Scholarship program, I have seen how access to the right tools, guidance, and encouragement can transform curiosity into real skills and confidence. I want to bring that same impact to children worldwide, helping them explore, create, and learn in ways that go beyond traditional education.

As a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), I have led projects from start to finish, developed strategies, launched initiatives, and worked closely with stakeholders to achieve results. My experience as a data analyst has helped me turn information into insights that support smart decision-making, a skill I see as useful for guiding Sugar Labs’ programs and growth.

I have also built multiple Generative AI agents and explored ways technology can enhance creativity and learning. I see a strong alignment between my experience and Sugar Labs’ mission to provide children with open-source tools to experiment, collaborate, and grow.

Joining Sugar Labs’ board would allow me to contribute my experience in technology, software development, mentorship, and AI to help expand programs, build community partnerships, and ensure that children everywhere have the opportunity to develop the skills and confidence to shape their futures.