WASHINGTON (March 26, 2025)—The Developers Alliance today announced three independent app developers have joined its Advisory Board. Adri Ofman of FlipaClip, Sean Higgins of BetterYou, and Mariah Smith, former Lead Android Engineer at Trala will use their diverse experience and expertise to help shape the Alliance’s advocacy on several issues, including proposed changes to the app ecosystem, data privacy legislation, tax issues, and artificial intelligence regulation.
“The Developers Alliance was founded to give software developers and the companies that depend on them a voice in issues that affect their work,” said Board Chair Jake Ward. “The board should always reflect our priorities and values, and we are proud to welcome Adri, Sean, and Mariah.”
“I’m honored to join the Developers Alliance advisory board and use my voice to educate key stakeholders on what app developers need to succeed,” said Ofman, chief operating officer and partner at VisualBlasters, the creator of the popular animation app FlipaClip. “Small app developers are too often left out of important policy conversations, so I am ready to hit the ground running and advocate for a more developer-friendly app ecosystem.”
“I’m thrilled to join such an important initiative that aims to empower small app developers to succeed in today’s digital economy,” said Higgins, chief executive officer of BetterYou, a habit-building app that leverages artificial intelligence and cognitive science to develop wellness solutions. “Developers face many challenges in today’s app ecosystem, and I applaud the Developers Alliance for tackling these issues head-on.”
“Developers are a driving force in our economy, and it’s crucial for lawmakers to propose policies that promote developer success, not create more barriers,” said Smith, who built and maintained all things Android-related at Trala. “In joining the Developers Alliance advisory board, I’m ready to use my experience and perspective as a software and mechanical engineer to promote positive change in the current app ecosystem.”
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The Developers Alliance advocates on behalf of developers, the companies they lead, and the industries that depend on them. We help policymakers and stakeholders understand the specific needs of the developer workforce and advocate for policies that responsibly advance the broader tech sector.
