9 questions about your journey for Connect’s 9th birthday 🎉

[GaziSalauddinbd]

Hi,
@Julie_A
A very nice post,
interesting QA Challenge

1.Q.Where are you from?

Answer: I am from, Lakshmipur,Bangladesh.

2. Q.Wheen did you join Connect?

Answer: I joined this forum as a Local Guide on July 31, 2018. My ID was 670866 in previous versions of Connect, 2.0.

3.Q. How did you first learn about Connect?

Answer: I first worked as a Google Local Guide. Then I came to know about a side or community called Connect Forum by participating in a meetup of Bangladesh Local Guide. Where various Google Maps problems are solved and various social work is discussed.

4.Q.What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?

Answer: I don’t have a specific schedule for checking the forum. I usually visit it multiple times throughout the day. I join the Connect Forum at least once a day.

My time spent on the Local Guide Connect Forum has crossed 27 days, which means I have spent more than 38880 minutes here.

Three guiding star in Bangladesh local guide program.
5.Q.Have you attended or hosted any meet-ups on Connect?

Yes, under the banner of Bangladesh Local Guide, I have hosted or helped organize more than 25 meet-ups directly so far. I have completed 266 meet-ups since the 98th meet-up of Bangladesh Local Guide.

6.Q.What is your favorite moment on Connect?

Answer: I have several favorite moments on Connect, like when my posts were featured on being recognized as a Guiding Star, Meet-up Champion. Those moments are really special to me.

7.Q.Tell us about one of your favorite Connect features.

Answer: I really like the feature that helps us have conversations with people from different nations and different languages. We get to learn about many national cultures.

8.Q.What feature could you add to Connect?

Answer: I would like to make language sharing easier by region. And Google Maps can be made even easier by discussing more in-depth about Google Maps in the Connect Forum.

9.Q.Tell us about one thing you plan to share or do on Connect this year.

Answer: Currently, we have completed 9 years of Connect Forum under the banner of Bangladesh Local Guides. Also, this month, we have done a tree plantation meetup. And in the next two/three months, we are planning to organize more programs under the banner of Bangladesh Local Guides.

[mdmahmudulhasan]

1. Where are you from?

I’m from Bangladesh, currently based in Dhaka. I love exploring both the city’s heritage spots and the country’s natural gems — from the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, to the Rema-Kalenga Reserve Forest in the Sylhet Division. Whether it’s a bustling urban scene or a peaceful jungle trail, I enjoy discovering and sharing experiences that help others connect with lesser-known places.

2. When did you join Connect?

I joined Connect a few years ago, initially as a curious contributor — but over time, it’s grown into a space where I engage more actively, especially after participating in local meetups and events.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?

I discovered Connect through Google Maps while exploring the Local Guides program. Once I started contributing reviews and photos regularly, I got more involved and came across Connect as the go-to place to share experiences and connect with fellow Local Guides.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?

I usually check Connect in the morning or evening when I have some quiet time to read posts, especially on weekends. That’s when I’m in the mindset to learn, comment, and be inspired by others’ journeys.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?

Yes! I attended a wonderful event hosted by Local Guides Bangla, where we connected over shared passions for Maps and had an insightful lunch afterward. We had productive conversations about Google Maps, the Local Guides program, and how to contribute meaningfully. I also shared my broad experiences with accessibility, along with tips for making places more inclusive for everyone.
Besides meetups, I’ve also explored some unique natural locations like the Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, and the reserved forest in the Sylhet Division, which further deepened my understanding of documenting nature, conservation, and off-the-grid locations through Google Maps.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?

One of my favorite moments was seeing people resonate with my shared experiences, like visiting offbeat places or reviewing hidden gems in the city. The support and encouragement from fellow Local Guides made me feel seen and appreciated.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

I love the “Travel” and “Food & Drink” boards — I often share and explore unique finds and reviews there. It’s where I feel most at home, and it’s always fun to discover contributors from all around the world.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

I’d love to have a “Mini Story + Map Integration” feature — where we could share a short story or highlight reel of our journey with automatic location tags and a visual map trail. It would make travel storytelling much more interactive!

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

This year, I plan to share more reviews of local experiences, including underrated eateries, nature spots, and community events in Dhaka. I also want to encourage more women and young creatives in my community to join the Local Guides program and start contributing actively!

[Globe_trotter_Ish]

Wow ! This is amazing @Julie_A here are my answers :

1. Where are you from? Mumbai, India
2. When did you join Connect? I joined Connect in 2020
3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place? I got an email to be a part of this program and registered.
4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect? Most of the times I check Connect during my commute time to the office or anytime during the weekend whenever I have some spare time at my hands!
5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect? Yes, of course! I love attending and hosting meet-ups ! In fact, I started these meet-up series -
1. #MapsForAll (focusing on Accessibility, Inclusion and Diversity on Maps)
2. #GoGreenWithMaps (focusing on eco-friendly and sustainability topics using Maps)
3. #HandmadeHeritageSeries (focusing on promoting local handmade artisan shops and businesses through Maps)
I like both virtual and in-person meet-ups! I completely recommend them, especially the in-person ones if you have the chance.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?

I loved meeting like-minded and passionate Local Guides on Connect through various virtual meet-ups for supporting noble causes and small local businesses hosted specially during Covid times as that made us all feel connected with the world ! One of my favourite moment I remeber during early days on Connect was my very first meet-up conducted virtually in 2020 on Connect where we had Local Guide musicians performing from all over the world ! We bonded over our love for music ! My other favorite moments include the many days when I was featured like when I became Accessibility Champion , Meet-up Champion, Guiding Star (twice) and when I became the Connect Moderator ! These features not only made me feel appreciated but also motivated me to keep doing the good work of spreading kindness and awareness about noble causes ! I am happy to have a forum where I and many of us can give our voice to causes that matter !

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

I love the new categories ! Also the new “Meet-up” board makes it easy to add or register our new meet-ups in a hassle free manner !

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

I’d love to have a “Theme of the Month” feature — where we have a list of current Ongoing challenges/ meet-up series based on a theme for that month so that anyone who wishes to participate can do by just adding their meet-up or post entry link there. This will also avoid duplication of efforts and multiple folks starting the same challenge or series !

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

I definitely wanted to have more women and allied Local Guides to feel included and introduced on this amazing forum and hence I had planned to start the "Women & Allied series” this year on Connect. So far the response has been fantastic and I am glad many new women & allied Local Guides are now joining the forum and feel appreciated for their contributions ! Thanks to you , @DeniGu , @Latika_Malhotra and everyone from the Google Team for making this happen !

[ShakilAK]

1. Where are you from?
   I’m from the vibrant city of Dhaka, Bangladesh.

2. When did you join Connect?
   I became a part of the Connect community on February 11, 2020.

3. How did you learn about Connect?
   I first came across Connect during the COVID-19 lockdown when I was spending a lot of time indoors. That’s when some amazing members of the Local Guides community in Bangladesh like @ShafiulB @ShahMdSultan , and @SolaimanHossain introduced me to the platform. Their encouragement inspired me to start exploring, learning, and sharing my experiences. Thanks to them, I found a space where I could connect with people from around the world and truly feel part of a global community.

4. What time of day or week do you usually check Connect?
   I usually check in during the mornings or at night, but honestly, I pop in whenever I get a chance.

5. Have you ever attended or hosted a meetup through Connect?
   Absolutely! I’ve attended over 70 Local Guides meetups and have had the opportunity to organize 10 of them here in Bangladesh.

6. What’s been your favorite moment on Connect so far?
   Hands down, it was when I received the email saying I’d been selected for Connect Live 2025. I was completely shocked—in the best way possible! I remember jumping with excitement and immediately sharing the news with my Local Guides friends, family, and community.

7. If you could add one new feature to Connect, what would it be?
   I’d love to see a real-time chat feature added—something that would make it easier to connect instantly with other Local Guides.

8. What’s something you’re planning to do or share on Connect this year?
   I’m really looking forward to hosting a special meetup later this month to celebrate Connect’s 9th birthday!

[rashedul-alam]

I will participate later and provide 9 answer

[NirmalTeja]

1. Where are you from?
I’m from Vijayawada , India

2. When did you join Connect?
I Joined the connect in 2018

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I’m Contributing in google maps on that time came a email from the local guides connect and saw the videos in YouTube of local guide connect live event videos .

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
When ever free on my day i will check daily

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Attended google maps product manager AnalGhosh sir hosted meetup in Visakhapatnam on that time i attended first meetup in 28th november 2018.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
Interacting with fellow local guides and winning challenges in Connect My Favorite is enjoyable, but my favorite interaction is with Google Maps Product Manager, AnalGhosh sir.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
Meet-up posts, food, and culture posts with detailed information are great.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
Add the local guide’s year of experience.
( recognise the Local guides those are participating more than years)

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
Attend more meetups and visit various places to explore.

Happy birthday to Local Guides Connect
@Julie_A Thank you for sharing with us

[NazimUD]

Hi connect

[ShafiulB]

It’s an amazing way to celebrate Connect’s 9th anniversary.
Thanks @Julie_A for this post, its Inspiring!
Also, congratulations for featuring on this big post @KashifMisidia bhai.

Here are my answers -

1. Where are you from?

I’m from Cumilla, Bangladesh, and currently living in Dhaka.

2. When did you join Connect?

I joined Connect in August 2016.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?

I joined the Local Guides program in August 2016, and shortly after, I was invited to join the Connect platform. I joined Connect to stay updated with community news and to engage with fellow Local Guides around the world.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?

I usually check Connect daily based on my free time.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?

Yes, from the very beginning of my Local Guides journey, I’ve been actively hosting meetups. My first event hosting was in November 2016, which was also my very first time attending a Local Guides meetup. Since then, I’ve organized over 100 meetups across various cities in Bangladesh. I always encourage other Local Guides to join and host Local Guides Meetups.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?

One of the favourite moments in my journey was being recognized as an Accessibility Champion on Connect. This acknowledgment meant a lot to me, as I’ve always been passionate about mapping accessibility information on Google Maps

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

There are many features on Connect that I love as both a Local Guide and a Connect Moderator. Recently, the Connect Challenge feature has stood out to me — it’s been a great motivator to inspire others to contribute more actively and with higher quality.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

As for meetups, I believe it would be really helpful to have a filter feature that allows us to find upcoming or ongoing meetups in specific cities, ideally displayed with a live map view.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

I’m planning to organize a Local Guides Meetup Series or Campaign, aiming to engage both local and global communities. The focus will be on practical mapping, accessibility improvements, and supporting small businesses. I hope to share more about this initiative on Connect very soon

Keep inspiring!
Happy Guiding!

[NavghanjiThakor]

Happy 9th Birthday, Connect!

Time really does fly—it’s been such an incredible journey being part of this vibrant Local Guides community! Over the years, I’ve made meaningful connections, discovered hidden gems, shared countless stories, and learned so much through everyone’s experiences.

I’m excited to take part in the “9 questions for Connect’s 9th birthday” challenge! What a fun way to celebrate and reflect on our journeys together.

Questions:

1 .Where are you from?
Ans. I Am From Gujarat, India

2. When did you join Connect?
Ans. 30 May ,2020

3.How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
Ans.I learned about it through email and a WhatsApp group of Gujarat Local Guides.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Ans: I usually like to check what’s new on Connect in the evening or during weekends when I have more free time.

5.Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Ans. Yes, I attended a meet-up at Rani ki Vav and the Science Resolution Center in Patan. The meet-up was hosted by @nareshdarji

6.What’s your favourite moment on Connect?
Ans. My favourite moment on Connect was when I shared my first post and received encouraging feedback from other Local Guides.
It made me feel welcomed and motivated to contribute more to the community.

7.Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
Ans:I really love the “Local Stories” feature on Connect. It allows Local Guides to share their personal experiences and discoveries from different places,
which helps me learn more about unique locations and cultures around the world.

8.What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
Ans: I would add a real-time chat or messaging feature so Local Guides can connect and coordinate more easily for meet-ups and collaborations.

9.Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
Ans. This year, I’m planning to organise a special meet-up to celebrate my 7-year anniversary as a Google Maps Local Guide and 5 years of contributions on Local Guide Connect . I also look forward to sharing more local stories, photos, and reviews from hidden places in my region, along with helpful tips for the community.

[Rozzub]

@Julie_A ধন্যবাদ উৎসবে সামিল করার জন্য

• Where are you from?
  Answer : Bogura, Bangladesh
• When did you join Connect?
  Answer : I joined this forum on march’2021

How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
Answer : I first learned about Connect from the Bangladesh Local Guide community.

• What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
  Answer : I don’t have a fixed schedule for checking the forum. I usually visit it multiple times throughout the day. My total read time on Connect is 13 days.
• Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
  Answer : I have joined multiple meet up of the Bangladesh Local Guide Community. All the meetups held under the banner of Bangladesh Local Guide Community are one of my means of learning.
• What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
  Answer : The 200th meetup organized by the Bangladesh Local Guide community, the community’s 10th anniversary celebration, was attended by the Connect moderator. Those moments are truly special to me.
• Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
  Answer : I like all the categories.
• What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
  Answer : I want to add this feature so that it can be easily read in my language, just like the previous version.
• Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
  Answer : Getting ready to join the mega meetup held under the banner of the Bangladesh Local Guide Community.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

[ZobayerSayem]

1. Where are you from?
I’m from the vibrant city of Dhaka, Bangladesh — a place rich in history, culture, and delicious street food!

2. When did you join Connect?
I joined Connect back in 2020, the same year I became a Local Guide. Since then, it has become my favorite place to share stories, learn from others, and connect with Local Guides around the world.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I first discovered Connect when I was exploring the Local Guides website back in 2020.
I noticed there’s a whole community where Local Guides from around the world share stories, photos, and tips — and I immediately felt excited to join and contribute!

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
I usually like to check what’s new on Connect in the evenings after my work or studies, when I can relax and catch up on interesting posts and updates.
Sometimes, I also browse during weekends when I have more free time to explore in depth.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes, I have hosted two meet-ups under the Bangladesh Local Guides banner so far:

• Amar Ekushey Book Fair Meetup 2024
• Jahajmara Photo Walk Map Editing Meet-up

Hosting these events was a great experience and helped me connect with fellow Local Guides in person.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
One of my favorite moments on Connect was when I shared my very first post and received warm, encouraging comments from experienced Local Guides.
That support inspired me to keep contributing and stay active in the community.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I really love the “Local Stories” and “Introduce Yourself” threads on Connect.
They let me discover amazing stories, cultures, and experiences from Local Guides all around the world.
Even though I haven’t been featured in “Introduce Yourself” yet, it remains my favorite place to connect and learn.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
I wish Connect had a “Live Chat” or “Instant Messaging” feature.
It would make communication faster, help plan meet-ups easily, and make the community feel even more lively and connected.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
This year, I plan to highlight some lesser-known but historically and culturally rich places in Dhaka.
I want to share posts about these hidden gems to help both locals and visitors discover the true beauty and heritage of my city.

[SunMoon]

Happy Birthdya to Connect.
My answer for Connect’s 9th Birthday:

1. Where are you from?
I’m from- Naria, Shariatpur, Bangladesh, a beautiful district located by the mighty Padma River.

2. When did you join Connect?
I joined Local Guides Connect in 2017** and have been actively exploring, learning, and contributing since then.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I discovered Connect while browsing Google Maps and reading about the Local Guides program. I followed the link and instantly fell in love with the vibrant global community.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Usually, I check Connect in the evening, especially on weekends, when I have some free time to read posts, join discussions, and discover meet-ups.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes! I’ve attended virtual meet-ups and also helped promote local events. It’s been a great way to meet amazing Guides from around the world.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
One of my favorite moments was when I received positive feedback from Googlers and fellow Local Guides for a photo story I shared about rural life in my area. It felt amazing to be recognized!

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I love the photo-sharing feature on Connect. It brings stories to life and helps us see the world through each other’s eyes.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
I would love to see a real-time chat feature or DM system to help us collaborate more directly and quickly connect with fellow Guides.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
This year, I plan to share a series of posts showcasing hidden gems in Bangladesh, including offbeat food spots, riverside culture, and community events in my area.

Thank you all.

[AbdullahAM]

Hello @Julie_A
Thank you for sharing the post with us,
Answer of the 9 questions are as below:

1. Where are you from?
   Answer: I am from Mymensingh, Bangladesh

2. When did you join Connect?
   Answer: I can’t recall exact date but so far sometime in December 2015

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
   Answer: During the google mapmaker time I heard about the connect Community.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
   Answer: There is no fixed time to browse the Connect, it is almost many times a day. It is now become a habit to check connect forum very frequently.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
   Answer: I have attended many meet-ups including the Connect Live 2019 in California, USA. I have hosted 25+ meet-ups including meet-up on Accessibility issue.
   

   

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
   Answer: My favorite moment on connect is when my post’s get featured, and also I feel very proud when Google recognized me as a Guiding Star and Accessibility Champion and featured on connect forum.
   

   

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
   Answer: I love monthly Introduce Yourself section, from where I can meet many other Local Guides from different countries and can learn about them.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
   Answer: I would like to see an option on Connect to see all Local Guides on a specific area or City or Country based on our connect profile location.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year. Answer: I want to contribute more this year comparing last year. I want to add more accessibility features on Google Maps to help persons with disabilities; also I want to active more on connect forum.

[Gazi_BD]

Happy 9 Years of Connect: My Journey, My Dreams, and What Comes Next

Nine years!
Yes, nine whole years of stories, smiles, stars on the map, and soulful posts on this beautiful platform we call Google Local Guides Connect.

As Connect celebrates its 9th anniversary, it feels like the perfect moment to pause, reflect, and look ahead—like watching the sunrise before a long, exciting run through roads yet to be traveled.

Connect has been more than a forum.
It’s been a home, a heartbeat, and a global community of explorers, photographers, reviewers, and dreamers.

Where am I from?
I’m proudly from Bangladesh—a country where rivers run wild, food sings with spice, and the people? Incredibly warm, endlessly passionate.

When did I join Connect?
My Connect journey began in 2016, but truth be told, my map-making journey started even before that.

Back then, I was deeply involved with a local mapping community—a grassroots effort to put our towns, villages, and stories on the digital map. When Google closed its local mapping program, we were like wanderers looking for home.

And we found that home in Google Connect.
That moment? Felt like finding your running pack after a long solo trail.

How did I learn about Connect?
It was all about community resilience.
We weren’t ready to stop mapping, sharing, and guiding. That spirit of collaboration led us here—where we could keep going, now on a global stage.

And ever since, I’ve never looked back.

When do I check Connect?
Every single night—before I sleep.
While others scroll reels or check emails, I dive into Connect posts, comment on amazing journeys, and leave hearts on stories from around the world.
It’s my daily tradition, like stretching after a long run.

Have I attended or hosted meet-ups?
I’ve attended several meet-ups in Bangladesh, connecting with amazing Local Guides in person. While I haven’t hosted a meetup myself yet, the desire is definitely growing—because this community deserves celebrations and shared moments offline too.
Maybe next year… maybe in my city… maybe even with medals and maps!

What’s my favorite moment on Connect?
Oh, it has to be those magical moments when I receive new badges—those sparkling little recognitions that say, “You’ve contributed. You’ve shown up. You’re part of this journey.”

Also, participating in Connect Live virtual events made me feel seen, celebrated, and closer to my fellow Local Guides from across oceans.

What Connect feature do I love the most?
Without a doubt—Meet-ups.
The opportunity to gather, grow, and geek out over maps and places with people who share your passion? Priceless.

What feature would I add to Connect?
I would revive the old “Featured” and “Trending” sections from Connect’s previous design.
Those sections gave us a chance to see standout stories at a glance and brought well-deserved spotlight to unique voices in our community.
It was like a curated gallery of greatness—and I miss it.

What am I planning to do on Connect this year?
Ah, this is where it gets exciting!

This year, I plan to:

• Share more powerful stories from Bangladesh—its hidden trails, indigenous communities, sustainable travel ideas, and food that needs to be tasted to be believed.
• Join more global campaigns, especially those around sustainability, accessibility, and heritage mapping.
• Celebrate Connect’s 9th Birthday with virtual and local participation—even if I can’t host a meetup this year, I’ll be part of the celebration with my heart, posts, and words.
• And, fingers crossed , in 2025, I dream of meeting my Local Guide friends from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and beyond in-person, maybe even at the long-hoped-for Connect Live reunion.

In Conclusion
Connect is more than a platform..
It’s a feeling. A rhythm. A run we’re all on—side by side, through maps and memories.

To everyone who’s shared a post, hosted a meetup, reviewed a place, or simply stopped by to read someone’s story: thank you.

And to Connect—happy 9th birthday!
You’ve made the world feel smaller, warmer, and more connected.

Here’s to the next 9 years—of guiding, mapping, meeting, and making magic happen

[SophatCHY]

1. Where are you from?
I’m Sophat CHY, from Cambodia, a country in Southeast Asia. I live in Phnom Penh, but I travel often across different provinces—from the mountains of Mondulkiri to the beaches of Kampot and Kep. Every corner has a story, and I love bringing those stories to Connect.

2. When did you join Connect?
I was active on Google Map Maker starting around 2010, helping to improve maps in Cambodia when very little information was available. Before Google Map Maker shut down, I learned about the new platform—Local Guides Connect.
I officially joined Connect on August 2, 2016, but I wasn’t active at that time. Life got busy, and I mostly focused on contributing to Maps itself.
Now in 2025, I’ve returned with a new energy and clear purpose—to be active on Connect again, share stories from Cambodia, and empower others through my experience. This time, it’s more than mapping—it’s about building community.

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I discovered Connect after joining the Local Guides Program while contributing to Google Maps. At first, I was just updating places and photos. Then I received an email inviting me to Connect. That’s where I found people like me—who care about their communities and love to explore the world together.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
I usually check Connect in the evenings after work, when I can take my time reading and engaging. I also love visiting on weekends, especially when I want inspiration or when I’ve just come back from a trip and want to share something meaningful.

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes! I’ve hosted and supported several meet-ups in Cambodia, such as:

• Street Walk & Photo Mapping: Phnom Penh Royal Palace Area in Phnom Penh
• Local Guides Meet-up: Run & Map at Preah Vihear Temple 2025
• ** Recap: [In-Person] Cambodia, July 15, Photowalk with Smartphone **

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
There are many, but one that stands out is when I saw my name on the Top 100 Local Guides Leaderboard. That moment made me feel seen. I wasn’t just contributing—I was being part of something global. Also, seeing more Cambodian Local Guides becoming active and sharing their voice gives me joy and hope.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I love the “Local Stories” and “Travel” sections. They let us dive into personal journeys from around the world. Through Connect, I’ve traveled with others without leaving my seat—and I’ve brought Cambodia to many people who never heard of some of our local places before.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
I would love to see a “Meet-up Toolkit” built into Connect. It could include:

• Location suggestions from Google Maps
• Meet-up history/Travel and more
• Language filters
  It would make organizing meet-ups easier and help new hosts feel more confident.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
This year, I plan to:

• Host more in-person meet-ups across Cambodia
• Support new Local Guides in joining Connect and becoming confident contributors
• Share meaningful local stories from communities, especially from rural areas, to show how technology and maps can empower lives
  And yes—my big dream is to one day attend Connect Live, not just for myself, but to proudly represent Cambodia

[sumanbd]

Happy birthday Connect Here is my one;

1. Where are you from?

Bangladesh

2. When did you join Connect?

October 27, 2019

3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?

Through my friend who was also a Local Guide, though I didn’t realise it at first.

4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?

I usually check it daily, but I can’t spend much time due to my professional responsibilities

5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?

Not yet, but I’m interested in hosting. But I’ve followed posts about meet-ups and they seem very engaging.

6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?

When someone gives a like or posts an appreciative comment on my contributions—it really motivates me to keep sharing. Another memorable moment is when I get a win badge from the Connect challenge. It felt great to be recognized and encouraged by the community.

7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

I really like the “Google Maps contributions” section under the “Categories”. It’s great to see inspiring stories and posts from Local Guides all over the world.

8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

I would love to see a “Local Highlights” feature that showcases trending posts, discussions, or meet-ups from my own city or country. Probably it would help Local Guides discover relevant content more easily and build stronger local communities.

9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

If possible, I’d like to add missing roads or update incorrect road information on Google Maps. In many areas, especially in rural or newly developed zones, roads are not properly marked

[Designer_Biswajit]

Happy 9 years of Connect!
Greetings to all my LG friends and Googlers on this special moment!

• Where are you from?
  I’m from Dhaka, Bangladesh.

• When did you join Connect?
  I joined Connect 6 years 3 months ago, April 26, 2018.

• How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
  I first learned about the Connect Forum by joining the 95th meetup of Bangladesh Local Guides.

• What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
  I check the Connect every morning when I wake up and before going to bed at night. I also check the Connect when I have nothing to do at the office

• Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
  Yes! I have attended almost 100 meetups in the last 6 years, including meetups organized by Bangladesh Local Guides and international virtual meetups. I have even hosted 10 meetups myself! Because I think we can learn a lot of new things from each other by meetups.

• What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
  I have been invited to join Connect Live Tokyo-25. I am excited to participate in the live program on July 24th and 25th! So this is going to be my favorite moment at Connect

• Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
  I noticed in the Connect that a feature has been introduced in the meetup post, with that feature, I can easily send invitations to my LG friends to join the meetup! I loved it.

• What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
  I will try to give a badge to keep track of who has joined how many meetups.

• Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
  This year, I plan to organize several meetups in different locations on Wheelchair accessibility. The main theme of the meetups will be ‘How to make maps more useful for everyone?’

[christophesubilia]

Thank you @Julie_A for this opportunity and happy 9 birthday Connect! It’s really cool to have a space where local guides can talk to each other

1. I’m from Vevey, Switzerland
2. 12.09.2017
3. When I applied for Connect Live 2019, it was asked to create an article about Connect, which is how I discovered this forum.
4. When I receive a notification or in the evening between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.
5. An in-person meetup (co-organized with @AniaKiser) on Alcatraz: [Recap] Alcatraz Day Tour with some local guides from 8 different country - Before Connect Live and several virtual meetups for the French-speaking community. The last one brought together more than 8 different countries : https://www.localguidesconnect.com/t/recap-rencontre-locale-guides-francophone-du-8-juillet-2025/
6. When I see a post about a real encounter between several local guides, or when I discover the culture of other people around the world.
7. Automatic generation of Google Maps box content with a single link when writing a post
8. The ability to create communication groups according to interests or communities for even easier communication
9. A few posts planned but the one I’m most looking forward to is: In October 16-19 2025 I’m going to Poland and will see @AniaKiser (who I met at Connect Live 2019). I’ll be doing a post about my discoveries and meeting Ania

[HUMBERTO_V]

Vamos al lio!

Vivo en el Empordà , una zona preciosa de Cataluña marcada por la Tramuntana, ese viento que parece que lo revuelve todo, ideas incluidas. Es tierra de genios como Salvador Dalí o Narcís Monturiol, inventor del submarino, así que uno crece rodeado de creatividad (y ráfagas constantes).

Hace ya 6 o 7 años me uní a Comnect. Estuve muy activo, hasta que de repente mi Google Maps se bloqueó… estuve fuera más de un año, como perdido en el ciberespacio. Una vez se desbloqueó, no se aún como , volví con más ganas aún, y desde entonces, ¡a tope! Desde la última actualización de Google Maps, mi contador de fotos con más visualizaciones tiene problemas, pero confio que se solucione, vivo muy feliz colaborando!

Empecé con la antigua plataforma. Le tenía mucho cariño, aunque reconozco que la actual me facilita mucho las cosas, como poder guardar textos sin miedo a perderlos. La navegación ha mejorado notablemente.

Prácticamente estoy conectado a cualquier hora. Me encanta perderme por los descubrimientos de otros, aprender, viajar desde casa. La comunidad es muy viva y eso engancha.

He asistido a alguna reunión en Connect, aunque el inglés me frena un poco. Por suerte, cada vez hay más hispanohablantes y eso ayuda muchísimo. Poco a poco me voy soltando.

Mi momento favorito fué cuando recibí el premio Guiding Stars de 2022. No me lo esperaba para nada. Fue un momento muy especial, me hizo sentir muy valorado por la comunidad. Ojalá vuelva ese reconocimiento, motiva mucho. Un sueño hecho realidad.

La traducción automática es la función que más me gusta, me permite comunicarme con gente increíble de todo el mundo sin preocuparme tanto por los idiomas.

Anadiría una sección dedicada a rutas de senderismo, bicicleta de montaña, caminos poco conocidos… con mapas, tracks, fotos y consejos prácticos.

( Buscando un antiguo molino, una de mis aficiones, recuperar y localizar lugares perdidos).

Mi objetivo es seguir compartiendo excursiones por la montaña, pero de esas menos conocidas, con historia, leyendas, rincones especiales…

Vamos a por más

[jayasimha78]

@Julie_A Happy 9 Years for connect. Great questions.

Where are you from?

I am from Antioch, CA, which is in San Francisco Bay Area. I moved here around 4 years back, but living in various parts of San Francisco Bay area from last 32 years. I am originally from Mysore, Karnataka, India.

When did you join Connect?

I joined connect in 2019.

How did you learn about Connect in the first place?

One of the requirement of 2019 Connectlive application was to write a post on connect. This is how I stumbled upon connect. Before that I had no idea connect existed, even though I was contributing to Google Maps from 2017.
Fortunately I also got selected for 2019 Connectlive.

What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
It is very random, I regularly login to connect, at least 5-6 times a week or sometimes even more. I have turned on email notifications, this also helps me to get on to connect on a regular basis.

Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?

I have attended several virtual meetups and some in person meetups as well, which were part of connectlive events.

Regarding hosting, I have hosted more than 150+ meetups, since I am hosting #statechallenge meetups with @Denise_Barlock from last four years. These used to be weekly meetups, but from last year and a half, they are monthly meetups.

What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
There are several, but let me narrow down to two

1. Getting selected as a guiding star in 2021
2. Recognized as a Meetup Champion in 2022

Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.

Well it’s hands down, meetup feature, before new connect, it was lot of work to create meetups on a weekly basis for #Statechallenge meetups, like create a facebook event, create a registration form, then post on connect for approval. With the new meetup feature, I have cut down creating FB event and creating registration form. Which saves a lot of time when you are hosting meetups on a regular basis.

What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?

I would like a configurable layout for posts, with the new connect need to scroll a lot to find posts. I liked the layout of posts in the old connect, which was in a grid format. It is better to give a choice to the user on how they want to see many posts.

Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.

One of the goals of this year is to achieve Master Writer badge on connect, I am around 25 posts away from that. If I actively participate in some of the anniversary events going on, on connect, hopefully I will be able to achieve that goal!