My journey with Google Local Guides began in 2016, and over the last nine years, it has shaped not only how I explore places—but also who I am today.
I am a textile graduate, currently working as a Product Development and Sourcing Specialist at a German retail brand, C&A. Before joining this multinational company, I worked in a large local garment manufacturing organization with over 20,000 workers, where nearly 60% were women, yet leadership remained largely male-dominated.
Despite challenges, I grew into a front-end merchandiser handling costing, negotiation, planning, and order confirmations. One defining moment was delivering a major presentation in front of senior management as the most junior employee—something that once felt impossible. What helped me build that confidence?
Local Guides.
How My Local Guides Journey Began
I joined Local Guides through a map-making event, where I met @MahabubMunna bhai, whose dedication inspired me. Contributing to Maps taught me the value of sharing honest experiences to help people I had never met.
Gradually, I became an active member of the Bangladesh Local Guides community. Meetups became my learning space, helping me build confidence, communication skills, and leadership. I even met @SoniaK strengthening my connection to the global community.
Growing into Leadership and Impact
Over time, Local Guides became the platform where my professional journey and passion for women empowerment intersected.
read from my past story Empowering women choose to challenge iwd2021
Over the years, I also:
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Hosted Google I/O Replay 2018 in Bangladesh
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Worked with USAID as a trainer
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Organized and hosted Local Guides meetups and community events
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Featured twice on Local Guides Connect
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A Friday with Girls | Create an Outstanding Example | Local Guides Rocks
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Selected twice as an attendee from Bangladesh for Connect Live in 2017 and 2019 (unfortunately, visa issues prevented me from attending)
Challenges, Loss, and Finding Strength
Last year, I lost my father, youngest brother, and grandmother, which was deeply challenging. While I am still healing, contributing to Local Guides has helped me stay connected, purposeful, and motivated to move forward.
A New Phase, A Renewed Purpose
Today, I work in a balanced global office environment and have the experience and resilience to contribute even more meaningfully. I want to focus on engaging more women from Bangladesh, especially from the textile and garment industry, into Local Guides. These women carry valuable local knowledge and stories that deserve visibility on Google Maps.
Local Guides didn’t just help me explore places—it helped me find my voice. If selected for Connect Live, I hope to discuss with moderators and Guides from around the world the barriers and mindset of women in our society, and collaboratively explore measures to increase female participation. I aspire to proudly represent Bangladesh and our community on this global platform. I am incredibly thankful to this platform.Thank you so much for taking time and reading my entire post.
