A Trusted Partner for ICT Development
April 2026
CTO/04
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS LINDA NEH NGOBESING LEONARD OBONYO DINEIL IGNATIUS IRENE NAKAGWA LETANG KEKWALETSWE MELISSA WELLS EDITOR IN CHIEF LINDA NEH NGOBESING COPY EDITOR DINEIL IGNATIUS EDITORIAL ADVISOR BERNADETTE LEWIS PUBLISHER COMMONWEALTH TELECOMMUNICATIONS ORGANISATION
LAYOUT AND DESIGN LINDA NEH NGOBESING DINEIL IGNATIUS
Table of Contents
Secretariat News
01 FROM THE SECRETARY GENERAL
04 CTO SECRETARIAT WHO IS THE HEAD OF FINANCE AND PENSIONS
CONNECTIVITY
06 EXPANDING HORIZONS: SATELLITE TECHNOLOGIES DRIVING DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION PAKISTAN POWERS INTO THE 5G ERA WITH LANDMARK SPECTRUM AUCTION 08 10 CONNECTING THE COMMONWEALTH
COLLABORATION
18 PART I: A JOURNEY IN MOTION: INSIDE THE COMMONWEALTH DIGITAL ROADSHOW IN VANUATU 21 STRENGTHENING DIGITAL PARTNERSHIPS FOR THE COMMONWEALTH AT MOBILE WORLD CONGRESS 2026 23 PART II: KERON ROSE: A DIGITAL NOMAD BRIDGING THE CARIBBEAN AND THE WORLD 14 CONNECTING LEADERS IN A DIGITAL AGE: CTO HOSTS FIRST COMMONWEALTH DIGITAL DIPLOMACY FORUM 16 COMMONWEALTH PARTNERS: CTO ADVANCES GOVERNANCE AND COLLABORATION WITH LONDON INDUCTION
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From the Desk of the Secretary General
As the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation marks its 125th anniversary, we are reminded that our enduring relevance lies in our ability to evolve alongside the technologies that shape our world. This edition of CTO InfoSphere, focused on connectivity, collaboration, and partnerships, reflects the core pillars that continue to guide our work and define our future. Digitalisation remains one of the most transformative opportunities of our time, reshaping economies, governance, and the daily lives of citizens across the Commonwealth. Yet, its true potential can only be realised when countries are connected, and when they work together. Connectivity is the foundation. It enables access to essential services, supports innovation, and drives participation in the global digital economy. Bridging persistent gaps in infrastructure, affordability, and access remains central to our mission, and to advancing the ambitions of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Collaboration and partnerships are the catalysts for progress. The Commonwealth’s diversity is its strength, providing a unique platform for shared learning and collective action. Through strategic partnerships and strong engagement among member countries, the CTO continues to facilitate knowledge exchange, mobilise expertise, and support impactful digital transformation initiatives.
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At the same time, as digital ecosystems expand, the importance of data sovereignty cannot be overlooked. Data is a critical national asset, and its governance must balance national interests with the need for secure and trusted cross-border flows. Through collaboration and shared frameworks, Commonwealth countries can work together to build trust, ensure resilience, and unlock the full value of the digital economy. We also recognise that digital transformation is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Each member country must pursue a path aligned with its unique context and priorities. The CTO remains committed to supporting these journeys through targeted capacity building, research, and implementation support —delivering tangible, measurable impact for governments and citizens alike. As we reflect on 125 years of connecting the Commonwealth, our focus is firmly on the future. By strengthening connectivity, deepening collaboration, and fostering meaningful partnerships, we can ensure that digital transformation delivers inclusive, sustainable growth for all.
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CONNECTIVITY
Expanding Horizons: Satellite Technologies Driving Digital Transformation
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BY LEONARD OBONYO & DINEIL IGNATIUS
Introduction
On 26 February 2026, the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO), in partnership with Viasat, convened a Satellite Communication Workshop in Kenya, bringing together key stakeholders to explore the role of emerging satellite technologies in advancing digital transformation. Hosted by the Communications Authority of Kenya, the workshop marked the first in a broader CTO- led series to be delivered across multiple regions.
Opening Engagements
The session opened with remarks from key partners and stakeholders. Eng. Leo Boruett delivered opening remarks on behalf of the Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya, underscoring the importance of collaboration and regulatory readiness in a rapidly evolving communications landscape. Mr. Leonard Obonyo, Head of Digital Development at the CTO, conveyed remarks on behalf of the organisation, highlighting the growing strategic importance of satellite communications in expanding connectivity and supporting inclusive digital development across the Commonwealth. Ms. Donna Bethea-Murphy, Senior Vice President of Global Regulatory and Technology Policy at Viasat, also addressed participants, emphasising the importance of forward-looking regulatory approaches and strong collaboration between industry and policymakers to fully realise the potential of emerging satellite technologies.
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Advancing Satellite-Enabled Connectivity
The workshop convened regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore how emerging satellite technologies can accelerate broadband expansion, particularly in remote and underserved areas. Discussions focused on regulatory frameworks, technological advancements, and policy strategies to effectively integrate satellite services into national connectivity plans. Across the programme, participants engaged in a series of focused sessions covering Africa’s strategic positioning in the global space economy, emerging satellite technologies and applications, global Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) safety services, and developments in direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity. Further discussions explored advances in geostationary (GSO) and non-geostationary (NGSO) satellite technologies, key policy and regulatory considerations, market access in the evolving space economy, and the growing importance of space sustainability and debris management. The workshop concluded with a summary session highlighting key takeaways and actionable insights.
Strengthening Collaboration Through Partnership
As the first in a series of regional workshops, this engagement sets the stage for continued collaboration across Africa, Asia-Pacific, and the Caribbean. By creating platforms for knowledge exchange and practical dialogue, the CTO aims to support its members in harnessing emerging technologies to build more inclusive, resilient, and future-ready digital ecosystems. Looking Ahead Ahead of the workshop, CTO representatives also paid a courtesy visit to the Communications Authority of Kenya, reinforcing institutional ties and reaffirming a shared commitment to advancing digital development in the region. TThe CTO’s collaboration with Viasat reflects a shared commitment to fostering dialogue between policymakers and industry, ensuring that technological progress is supported by informed and responsive regulatory approaches.
Pakistan Powers Into the 5G Era with Landmark Spectrum Auction 08
PAKISTAN
A historic day for Pakistan’s digital future as the country enters the 5G era
Pakistan has successfully completed its largest-ever IMT spectrum auction, adding 480 MHz of new spectrum to the national telecom ecosystem, a major step toward strengthening 4G services and enabling the rollout of 5G. For the first time in Pakistan’s history, under the direction of the Honourable Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister, the spectrum auction was live-streamed, reinforcing our commitment to transparency, openness, and rules-based governance in the telecom sector acknowledged by all stakeholders today. Spectrum allocated across 700, 1800, 2100, 2300, 2600 and 3500 MHz bands will generate $507 million, but more importantly it brings faster mobile broadband speeds, expanded connectivity to new locations across the country, greater capacity for telecom networks and acceleration toward 5G and next-generation digital services With 240+ million citizens and over 200 million telecom subscribers, strengthening our digital infrastructure is essential to unlocking Pakistan’s potential in AI, fintech, e-commerce, telemedicine, education, and the freelancing economy. This milestone reaffirms our commitment to building a modern, connected, and investment-friendly digital economy. The journey to a truly Digital Pakistan continues. Special thanks to Honourable Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif for dedication and support, Deputy Prime Minister Senator the Honurable Mohammad Ishaq Dar for his guidance, Chairman Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and his whole team, Ministry of IT and Telecommunication Pakistan 's telecom wing, Spectrum Advisory Committee led by Finance Minister Aurangzeb and members including ED Frequency Allocation Board.
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Connecting the Commonwealth
BY LEONARD OBONYO & DINEIL IGNATIUS
Introduction In today’s digital era, connectivity is no longer a convenience, it is the backbone of economic growth, social inclusion, and innovation. Across the Commonwealth, member states are embracing digital transformation to address development challenges and unlock opportunities for citizens and businesses alike. From metropolitan hubs in Africa to remote islands in the Pacific, the pursuit of universal access, secure data governance, and collaborative innovation has never been more urgent. At the heart of this transformation lie three intertwined pillars championed by the CTO: connectivity, collaboration, and partnership. Digital Transformation – The CTO Vision The CTO recognises digitalisation as one of the foremost transformative opportunities of our time. It continues to reshape our world in ways that would have been unimaginable just a few decades ago. Through its strategic direction, the CTO seeks to assist member states in accelerating their digital transformation journeys, helping governments and citizens alike harness the full potential of ICT. Central to this vision is supporting member countries in leveraging digital technologies to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, while ensuring that the benefits of transformation are tangible, inclusive, and sustainable. The CTO’s work is focused on improving the everyday lives of Commonwealth citizens and delivering measurable positive impacts on national governance and service delivery. Connectivity – Building the Digital Backbone Digital transformation begins with robust infrastructure. The CTO supports member states in developing appropriate frameworks tailored to their unique circumstances, challenges, and priorities. Countries are investing in broadband networks, 5G deployment, satellite technology, and last-mile connectivity to bridge the digital divide. Connectivity is not just about networks, it is about creating secure, resilient, and sovereign digital ecosystems. Emerging approaches to data sovereignty in Canada and the UK closely mirror the CTO’s priorities of connectivity, collaboration, and partnership. Both countries frame sovereignty not as digital self ‑ reliance, but as maintaining legal control, operational resilience, and institutional capacity while remaining globally connected. This reinforces the CTO’s emphasis on secure digital backbones, interoperable systems and trusted partnerships across borders. For Commonwealth members, especially small and developing states, this governance ‑ first approach offers a credible path to sovereignty without constraining trade, innovation, or digital inclusion. Sovereignty is strengthened by investing in resilient connectivity, coordinating standards and governance, and engaging partners on balanced terms rather than retreating from global data flows essential to growth and service delivery.
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Collaboration – Learning and Innovating Together Digital transformation thrives on collaboration. The CTO facilitates in-country consultations, training programs, and public awareness activities to ensure that citizens and government officials understand the transformative potential of ICT. By conducting research, desk-based reviews, and planning for implementation, the CTO helps countries design solutions that are practical, effective, and tailored to local needs. Collaboration extends beyond policy into skills development and innovation, with programs like the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow providing technical workshops, peer learning opportunities, and capacity-building initiatives. By sharing knowledge and experiences, countries can address challenges more efficiently, ensuring that digital progress benefits all citizens. Partnership – Amplifying Impact the CTO Way Partnerships are central to the CTO’s approach. By engaging trusted strategic partners, international organisations, academia, and the private sector, the CTO helps member states mobilise expertise, share resources, and co-develop sustainable digital solutions. These partnerships deliver measurable results, from expanding e-government services and digital literacy programs to supporting smart city projects and tech innovation hubs. Through collaboration and funding facilitation, the CTO ensures that digital transformation initiatives are scalable, resilient, and impactful.
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Implementation and Impact Measurement The CTO supports countries through every stage of the digital journey: Coordinating in-country implementation of digital plans Equipping public servants with training for effective execution Measuring and monitoring impact to ensure sustainable results
By harnessing the expertise of its network of professionals and encouraging collaboration among members, the CTO creates ecosystems that foster innovation, inclusivity, and long- term growth.
Looking Ahead – A Connected and Collaborative Commonwealth Digital transformation is more than technology; it is a shared journey guided by the CTO. Connectivity, collaboration, and partnership remain at the core of its strategy. As the CTO celebrates its 125th anniversary, it reaffirms its commitment to supporting member states in building connected, collaborative, and secure digital futures. By embracing shared goals, leveraging strategic partnerships, and prioritising inclusive, resilient networks, Commonwealth countries can unlock the full potential of the digital age, ensuring that no citizen is left behind and that the Commonwealth continues to lead in innovation, cooperation, and sustainable development.
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COLLABORATION
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Connecting Leaders in a Digital Age: CTO Hosts First Commonwealth Digital Diplomacy Forum
BY LINDA NEH
The Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) convened the inaugural Commonwealth Digital Diplomacy Forum in London on 10 February, marking a strong and purposeful start to its 125th Anniversary year. Bringing together an impressive gathering of over 50 High Commissioners, Ambassadors, senior diplomats, and global digital leaders, the Forum created a trusted and forward-looking space for strategic dialogue on diplomacy in an increasingly hyper-connected world. More than just a meeting of minds, the event underscored the growing importance of collaboration, coordination, and shared responsibility in shaping the global digital landscape.
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Discussions explored critical and emerging areas such as multilateral digital governance, artificial intelligence, cyber resilience, digital standards, and the role of digital public infrastructure in advancing national development and strengthening international cooperation. Participants exchanged perspectives on how governments and institutions can work more cohesively to address cross-border digital challenges, while unlocking new opportunities for innovation, inclusion, and economic growth. Hosted in collaboration with the Government of the United Kingdom at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the Forum highlighted the value of partnership in advancing collective digital priorities. It also reinforced the CTO’s unique role as a convener—bringing together diverse stakeholders from across the Commonwealth to foster dialogue, share expertise, and build consensus on key digital issues.
As the Commonwealth’s longest-standing technology organisation, the CTO continues to serve as a vital bridge between policy, innovation, and diplomacy. Through platforms such as the Digital Diplomacy Forum, the Organisation is not only facilitating high-level engagement but also strengthening the networks and relationships that underpin effective international cooperation in the digital age. The CTO extends its sincere appreciation to all speakers, partners, and participants whose insights and active engagement made the Forum a resounding success. Their contributions reflect a shared commitment to building secure, inclusive, and resilient digital futures for all Commonwealth citizens. As the CTO@125 year unfolds, this Forum sets the tone for deeper collaboration and sustained dialogue, ensuring that the momentum generated in London continues to inspire action, partnership, and progress across the Commonwealth.
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Commonwealth Partners: CTO Advances Governance and Collaboration with London Induction
BY LINDA NEH
The Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) convened its Liaison Officers in London for a two-day induction programme on 26–27 February 2026, reinforcing its commitment to stronger governance, deeper collaboration, and more effective representation across its Member States. The initiative reflects the CTO’s broader strategic focus on connectivity, not only through infrastructure and digital systems, but through people, partnerships, and institutional alignment. Opening the programme, Secretary General Bernadette Lewis underscored the pivotal role Liaison Officers play as the bridge between Member States and the Secretariat. She emphasised that professionalism, neutrality, and discipline are not merely procedural expectations but essential pillars that sustain trust, credibility, and cooperation across the Commonwealth network. In an increasingly interconnected digital landscape, these attributes are critical to enabling seamless communication and coordinated action among diverse national stakeholders. The induction programme was designed to strengthen both governance capacity and collaborative engagement. Sessions led by Ian Blanchard focused on diplomatic protocol, boardroom conduct, and effective participation in multilateral environments. These sessions highlighted how strong interpersonal skills and a shared understanding of governance norms can significantly enhance collaboration between countries, particularly when navigating complex digital transformation agendas.
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A key dimension of the programme was its focus on cybersecurity resilience, an area where collaboration is not optional but essential. Fredie Woolland, Executive Director of the Commonwealth Security Resilience Group, delivered a session on strengthening both national and cross-border cyber preparedness. His insights reinforced the importance of collective defence strategies, information-sharing, and coordinated policy approaches in safeguarding digital ecosystems across the Commonwealth. As cyber threats become more sophisticated and borderless, the CTO continues to position itself as a platform for cooperative resilience and shared learning. The induction also marked the launch of the CTO Member Recognition Programme by Irene Nakaggwa, an initiative designed to celebrate excellence, innovation, and commitment among Member States. The programme serves as both a recognition mechanism and a motivational tool, fostering a culture of collaboration by highlighting best practices and encouraging peer-to-peer learning. It will culminate in formal awards at the CTO’s 125th Anniversary Gala in London in September 2026, further strengthening a sense of shared identity and achievement across the organisation.
Beyond capacity-building, the London induction signals a deliberate effort by the CTO to enhance its governance architecture while deepening collaborative ties among its members. By equipping Liaison Officers with the skills, knowledge, and networks needed to operate effectively, the CTO is investing in a more cohesive and responsive institutional framework—one that can better support Member States in navigating the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation. As the CTO advances toward its 125th anniversary, initiatives such as this induction programme demonstrate how strong governance and meaningful collaboration go hand in hand. By reinforcing the human connections that underpin digital progress, the Organisation is not only strengthening its internal systems but also positioning itself to deliver measurable, Commonwealth-wide impact in an increasingly connected world.
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A Journey in Motion: Inside the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow in Vanuatu
BY LINDA NEH AND DINEIL IGNATIUS
From Islands to Impact: A Commonwealth Digital Roadshow Story from Vanuatu In September 2025, a quiet but defining moment took place. The Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) unveiled a bold new initiative, the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow, marking 125 years of service to the Commonwealth not by looking back, but by charting a path forward. It was not introduced as a conference series or a one-off programme. It was conceived as a movement. A movement designed to take digital transformation out of policy papers and into real spaces, into governments, into communities, and into the daily lives of citizens across the Commonwealth.
And when the Roadshow set out on that journey, it found its first destination in Vanuatu.
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From Vision to Reality: Vanuatu That vision came to life from 23 to 27 March 2026, across Port Vila and surrounding communities. The Commonwealth Digital Roadshow made its historic debut in Vanuatu, marking an important milestone not only for the country, but for the broader Commonwealth approach to digital development. Officially opened by Prime Minister, the Honourable Jotham Napat, the Roadshow signalled a strong national commitment to shaping a future in which digital technologies play a central role in economic growth, governance, and social development. The opening ceremony brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from government leaders and regulators to private sector actors and development partners. Among them was the UK High Commissioner to Vanuatu, H.E. Nicolette Brent, who recognised the CTO’s leadership in supporting countries to navigate an increasingly digital world. In his introductory remarks, the CTO Chair and ICT Minister of Samoa described Vanuatu’s role as both bold and symbolic, demonstrating how small island states are taking an active role in shaping their digital futures. For CTO Secretary General Bernadette Lewis, the moment reflected a broader evolution. The Roadshow, she noted, represents a shift in how the organisation supports its members—moving from dialogue to delivery, and from short-term engagement to long- term impact. Participants were welcomed by Director General Mr George Manuiri from the Prime Minister’s Office and invited to experience the energy and hospitality of Port Vila—a setting that would anchor a week of purposeful engagement. A Concept Built for the Future At its core, the Commonwealth Digital Roadshow is a carefully designed response to one of the most pressing questions facing small states today: how to translate the promise of digital transformation into meaningful, lasting impact. It is a unique programme of awareness-raising, capacity building, and education, one that goes beyond simply sharing information. It connects knowledge with action through demonstrations, immersive activities, and hands-on engagement, enabling stakeholders to fully understand and experience the possibilities of a digital future. But its ambition goes further. The Roadshow is also about building the foundations for sustained change, creating frameworks for coalitions and partnerships that extend well beyond the duration of each event. These partnerships are intended to spark projects, mobilise investment, and drive programmes that continue to deliver tangible benefits long after the Roadshow moves on. Recognising the diversity of the Commonwealth, the CTO has ensured that no two Roadshows will be the same. Each is tailored to the specific needs, priorities, and realities of the host country, responding directly to issues raised by national stakeholders while supporting communities in unlocking the full potential of ICT.
The journey continues, Part Two will be featured in the next issue of CTO InfoSphere.
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Strengthening Digital Partnerships for the Commonwealth at Mobile World Congress 2026
BY LINDA NEH
In today’s deeply interconnected digital landscape, no country can advance its digital transformation journey in isolation. Collaboration, strategic partnerships, and shared innovation have become essential to building resilient infrastructure, expanding connectivity, and ensuring that the benefits of digitalisation are inclusive and far-reaching. It is within this context that the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation participated in Mobile World Congress 2026, held in Barcelona from 2–5 March 2026, advancing high-level engagements to strengthen partnerships across the global digital ecosystem as the Organisation marks 125 years of telecommunications leadership. At a time when digital transformation continues to reshape economies and societies, the CTO’s presence at this premier global gathering underscored its role as a vital convening platform, bringing together governments, industry leaders, and development partners to foster meaningful cooperation across the Commonwealth. On the margins of the Congress, the Secretary General engaged with CTO Member States to better understand their evolving digital priorities, national development goals, and the connectivity challenges they face. These discussions are helping to inform more responsive and targeted CTO interventions, including capacity-building programmes, policy dialogue, and platforms for peer learning and knowledge exchange. A strong emphasis was placed on deepening collaboration among member countries, leveraging shared experiences and collective expertise to address common challenges such as bridging the digital divide, strengthening infrastructure resilience, and expanding equitable access to digital technologies. This collaborative approach remains central to the CTO’s mission of supporting its members in navigating an increasingly interconnected digital landscape. The engagements also included high-level meetings with private sector stakeholders, global technology companies, and service providers. These discussions focused on forging impactful partnerships that align innovation with development priorities, unlocking new opportunities for investment, technology transfer, and scalable digital solutions across Commonwealth countries. Key conversations centred on the issues shaping the future of connectivity, including resilient digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, satellite and space-based connectivity, and enhanced cooperation in internet governance. These themes highlight the critical importance of multi- stakeholder partnerships in building secure, inclusive, and sustainable digital ecosystems. Particular attention was given to the role of emerging technologies in extending connectivity to underserved and remote communities. AI-driven solutions and satellite technologies are increasingly seen as essential tools for improving access, strengthening disaster preparedness, and supporting digital government and economic growth across member countries.
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SG MEETING WITH DELEGATIONS AT MWC As the CTO celebrates its 125th anniversary, its engagement at Mobile World Congress 2026 reflects a forward-looking vision grounded in partnership, collaboration, and shared progress, ensuring that no country is left behind in the digital age.
Part 2: Keron Rose: A Digital Nomad Bridging the Caribbean and the World 31 BY DINEIL IGNATIUS Seeing Technology in Action: Lessons from Asia Since moving to Asia, Keron Rose has been immersed in a technological environment that has reshaped his thinking about the role of innovation in everyday life. “China has blown my mind,” he says. “Their approach to technology is about solving the hardest problems. What are the most dangerous jobs people don’t want to do? Let’s automate them. Coal mining, for example nobody does it anymore. Autonomous machines dig the coal, and autonomous trucks transport it to fully automated stations. Even ports run 24/7 with minimal human input.” Keron recalls a vivid experience in Shenzhen, where he witnessed technology in real time. “We were at a park with someone from Huawei, and he ordered drinks using a drone delivery. You select the drone station, the drone arrives, and your order is released only after entering a code. It’s fully autonomous, working perfectly in real time.” Thailand, too, is embracing autonomous innovation. “They just rolled out their first self- driving drone taxis,” Keron notes. “These technologies are no longer science fiction they’re part of everyday life in Asia. And that’s why I’m here: to see it, experience it, and bring that knowledge back to the Caribbean in a way people can understand.” 23
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His perspective highlights a broader challenge for the Caribbean. “It’s not just about technology it’s about mindset. You can throw money at tech and hope it works, but if the population hasn’t been sensitised to it, it fails. People here in Trinidad still avoid self-checkout lines, and we’re talking about drone taxis and AI. We can’t leapfrog the learning process that comes with each stage of technology.” Through his media work, lectures, and content creation, Keron aims to expose the Caribbean to these innovations and provoke thought, even if it means being “the bad guy” at times. “Until we realize how far behind, we are, we can’t move forward. We need to stop celebrating the bare minimum and start pushing the envelope,” he says.
A Flexible Base: Digital Freedom Across Borders When asked whether Thailand will be his permanent base, Keron’s answer reflects the mindset of a true digital nomad. “Life has never been more unpredictable,” he says. “I look at everything in five-year blocks. My visa in Thailand is for five years. If Thailand still makes sense at the end of that period, I’ll stay. If Vietnam or somewhere else makes sense, then I’ll move.” Keron’s digital-first approach allows him this flexibility. “Back in 2020, I was running my tech business, Droid Island, dealing with physical products,” he explains. “When the pandemic hit, I realized I needed to go fully digital. Digital products and services allow me to work from anywhere, as long as I have a Wi-Fi connection. That pivot positioned my life perfectly for the future.” The move to Thailand was straightforward thanks to this strategy. “Getting the digital nomad visa took just two weeks, and by the third week, I was set up and ready,” he says. For Keron, the plan is simple: every five years, reassess and adjust based on opportunities and life circumstances. “I’ll focus on keeping everything digital so I have the freedom and flexibility to adapt as life continues to change,” he says. This approach exemplifies the essence of digital nomadism blending work, lifestyle, and location flexibility while leveraging technology to maintain freedom and adaptability.
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Digital Transformation Across Continents Keron Rose has experienced digital transformation firsthand across multiple cultures North America, the Caribbean, and now Asia. His observations reveal just how differently technology is adopted around the world. “In Canada, we’re always a step behind the US,” he explains. “Not everything happens for us, so we’re accustomed to being a bit restrictive. But moving to Trinidad was a whole different experience nothing works the way you expect, and access to information is extremely limited. You can’t just Google anything because people believe in gatekeeping information. That’s why I produce so much content: when I started, there was nothing online about e-commerce or digital marketing in Trinidad and the Caribbean. I had to network behind the scenes and figure everything out for myself.” This self-taught expertise eventually became the foundation for teaching others. “People started reaching out, asking how I built websites, how I showed up on Google, and how I sold online. That’s when I began teaching these skills to others,” he says. The contrast with Asia is striking. “Here, even people in their eighties are using their phones for everything. They rarely use bank cards they scan to pay, and even ATM withdrawals are done via app. It reminds me of my time at Apple, where we taught classes on app development and mobile banking. The difference is that in Asia, there’s a culture of teaching and sensitising the public to technology, across all age groups. In the Caribbean, that simply doesn’t exist.” For Keron, the lesson is clear: technology alone isn’t enough. “Digital transformation isn’t just about new tools it’s about educating people and sensitising them to change. That’s why I focus on sharing what I see abroad, so people back home can understand the possibilities and begin to shift their mindset.”
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Digital Transformation and Brain Circulation in the Commonwealth For Keron Rose, the rise of digital nomadism isn’t just a personal choice it represents a shift in how talent can contribute to the Commonwealth. “Digital nomads are now the most sought-after group because of how digital nomad visas are structured. We can live anywhere, but we bring our income and expertise with us,” he explains. Keron draws a distinction between the traditional migration of Caribbean professionals and today’s digital nomads. “When our parents migrated, it was considered brain drain. You left, got educated, and rarely returned. The Caribbean lost talent. Today, as digital nomads, we migrate physically but stay connected digitally. Trinidad hasn’t lost me. The Caribbean hasn’t lost me. And now I’m an even better version of myself exposed to the latest innovations, working from the future, and bringing that knowledge back home.” This is the concept of brain circulation a shift from losing talent to leveraging global experience for regional growth. “Technology allows us to pour expertise back into the region without physically being there. It’s a game-changer for the Caribbean and the Commonwealth at large. If we don’t embrace it, we risk losing people for nothing,” he warns. For Keron, the digital nomad lifestyle isn’t just about freedom or adventure it’s about shaping the future of work, education, and innovation across borders.
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Recognised for Bridging Technology Across Continents Keron Rose recently received international recognition in China for his work documenting the impact of technology. “China is strengthening ties with the Caribbean and Latin America through programs that encourage creators to produce content on specific topics. I submitted a video on how China has changed my perspective on technology,” he explains. Out of 50 creators, Keron earned a silver ranking, with only a few achieving gold. The program took him on a 16-day journey across multiple Chinese cities, experiencing firsthand the innovations transforming industries and daily life. “The goal was to learn about China and see what it’s doing, then share those insights with the Caribbean so people can see what’s happening inside China,” he says. Keron notes that China’s initiative wasn’t just a competition it was about authentic storytelling. “Western media won’t always showcase China in its true light. This program allowed creators like me to capture a different perspective and bring it back to our regions.” Through this recognition, Keron continues his mission of connecting the Caribbean with global technological advancements, not only through written content but also via video, digital platforms, and media engagements.
Conclusion: Living the Future Today Keron Rose embodies the essence of the modern digital nomad: freedom, flexibility, and global perspective. From leaving the 9-to-5, navigating family expectations, building a digital empire, experiencing cutting-edge tech in Asia, to bridging knowledge back to the Caribbean his journey highlights how technology can transform careers, cultures, and communities. For Keron, this lifestyle isn’t just about adventure it’s about impact, education, and connecting worlds. As he says, “I’m physically abroad, but digitally and mentally, I’m still working for the Caribbean. That’s the future of work.”
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Month
Event/Activity
Host
January
Commonwealth Digital Diplomacy Forum
CTO/FCDO
February
Regional Capacity Building Workshop 1: Emerging Satellite Technologies for Digital Transformation
Kenya
CTO
CTO Liaison Officers Meeting
March
Vanuatu
Commonwealth Digital Roadshow
April
Lesotho
CTO’s 64th Council Meeting
Regional Capacity Building Workshop 2:
Emerging Satellite Technologies for Digital Transformation Southern Africa Digital Transformation Centre Stage Webinar 1 Industry Perspectives from GSOA and Capgemini
CRASA
May
Webinar
Mozambique
Digital Week
June
Regional Capacity Building Workshop 3: Emerging Satellite Technologies for Digital Transformation
Caribbean
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CTO MEMBERS
People’s Republic of Bangladesh
Barbados
Belize
Botswana
The Gabonese Republic
Eswatini
Republic of Fiji
Cameroon
Republic of The Gambia
Co-operative Republic of Guyana
Ghana
Grenada
Republic of Kenya Kingdom of Lesotho
India
Jamaica
Republic of Malawi
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Mauritius
Mozambique
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CTO MEMBERS
Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Independent State of Samoa
Republic of Rwanda Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis
United Republic of Tanzania
Kingdom of Tonga
Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Republic of Sierra Leone
Tuvalu
Republic of Uganda United Kingdom
Vanuatu
Zambia
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CTO AFFILIATE AND ICT SECTOR MEMBERS
Bermuda
Saint Helena
Gibraltar
Montserrat
VIASAT
Cayman Islands
GIBRALTAR REGULATORY AUTHORITY
GIBTELECOM
Utilities Regulation & Competition Authority (URCA), Bahamas
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