Alejandro Mayoral Baños

Alejandro Mayoral Baños is the Executive Director of the global organization Access Now, where he leads the mission of extending and defending the digital rights of people and communities at risk. A dedicated activist and academic, he is passionate about bridging Indigenous Peoples and digital technologies. As a Mixtec/mestizo (Indigenous to Mexico) immigrant in Canada and a proud member of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, Dr. Mayoral Baños is driven by a commitment to inclusivity and equity through technology. He founded the Indigenous Friends Association (IFA) in Canada and Magtayaní in Mexico, giving him extensive experience in driving organizational growth across various socio-economic contexts and fostering environments where Indigenous perspectives and digital innovation converge. With a strong background in volunteering and social action, his work has spanned Canada, Mexico, Peru, Guatemala, Chile, Bolivia, and the United Nations. In 2023, Dr. Mayoral Baños was named an Ashoka Fellow in recognition of his impactful work. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, a Master's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from York University, and a Ph.D. in Communication and Culture from York University, emphasizing decolonial computing and Indigenous media.