2025:Program/WikiCollection Campaign

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Session title: WikiCollection Campaign

Session type: Poster

Track: GLAM

Language: en

Following the exchange, we will introduce the concept of WikiCollection, a global campaign aimed at encouraging Wikimedians and collectors to document various collectibles across Wikimedia projects. Originally launched as a pilot on Arabic Wikipedia, WikiCollection generated impressive results:

• Over 3111 file uploads of collectible items uploaded to Wikimedia Commons.
• More than 341 new Wikipedia articles about collectibles.
• 11950 new Wikidata items documenting unique objects from participants’ collections.
• 11 workgroups including 3 Winners

Description

Following the exchange, we will introduce the concept of WikiCollection, a global campaign aimed at encouraging Wikimedians and collectors to document various collectibles across Wikimedia projects. Originally launched as a pilot on Arabic Wikipedia, WikiCollection generated impressive results:

• Over 3111 file uploads of collectible items uploaded to Wikimedia Commons.
• More than 341 new Wikipedia articles about collectibles.
• 11950 new Wikidata items documenting unique objects from participants’ collections.
• 11 workgroups including 3 Winners

How does your session relate to the event theme, Wikimania@20 – Inclusivity. Impact. Sustainability?

Inclusivity: The WikiCollection campaign creates opportunities for participation beyond traditional editing communities. By engaging collectors—whether of coins, stamps, cultural objects, or everyday items—the project welcomes individuals who may not have previously seen a place for themselves in Wikimedia projects. The team-based model also fosters collaboration across different languages, cultures, and backgrounds, making it accessible to new contributors from underrepresented regions.

Impact: The campaign has already demonstrated measurable success in enriching Wikimedia projects with high-quality content about collectible items, including over 3111 photos on Commons, 340 Wikipedia articles, and 11950 Wikidata items during its pilot phase on Arabic Wikipedia. By documenting material culture and personal collections, the campaign preserves knowledge that might otherwise be overlooked, expanding the depth and diversity of Wikimedia content.

Sustainability: WikiCollection promotes sustainable participation by encouraging teamwork and community building. The collaborative format helps avoid contributor burnout and fosters skills-sharing, while the open call for a global organizing team during the session aims to establish a long-term structure for maintaining and growing the campaign. Additionally, by highlighting the cultural and historical significance of collectibles, the project encourages contributors to document and preserve heritage for future generations.

What is the experience level needed for the audience for your session?

Everyone can participate in this session

Speakers

• serine

Serine Ben Brahim is a Wikimedian, organizer, and project manager with the Wikimedians of UAE User Group. She leads regional initiatives such as the Million Wiki Project and WikiCollection, with a focus on Arabic content, digital literacy, and community growth across the MENA region. Serine also serves as the MENA Liaison for the Let’s Connect program.

• Duaa Khidir

Duaa Khidir, with a background in linguistics and translation, I was introduced to Wikipedia by Wikimedians of United Arab Emirates User Group in 2021 and have since volunteered as their communications liaison. I also serve as the MENA liaison for WLA.