Congratulations…
Extremely happy to see your post, dear @Darshraj
Your hard work is being appreciated by us… Wish you a great time here…
Remember, we are here to assist you, any time…
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Thank you so much sir for your kindness 
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Hi,
As I mentioned earlier, here are my responses to your 9 questions:
Where are you from?
I am from Pune, Maharashtra, India
When did you join Connect?
I joined connect on 19-09-2019
How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I received the mail from Google Maps with information and joining link.
What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Whenever I am free.
Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes, in fact, I had hosted quite a few and attended many since covid, regularly.
What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
Oh, many, but my favorite is when I was featured as a local guide supporting local businesses during festival seasons. Coincidentally, it was the first-ever post by @Latika_Malhotra ji as a Googler. 
Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
Meet-ups. It allows me to connect with many local guides throughout the world. In both virtual and in-person meetings. I love to keep myself updated; therefore, during the meet-ups, I learn about a variety of topics in addition to meeting new people.
What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
If possible, add a section fothe latestst or upcoming updates or features from Google Maps.
Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
There is a lot to do in supporting small or locabusinesses,es and I will continue with my efforts to support them.
I hope this will cover all the aspects required. @Julie_A
Cheers!
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Happy 9th Connect Birthday
Questions:
Where are you from?
I’m from Dhaka, Bangladesh.
When did you join Connect?
I joined the Connect forum in 15th March 2019 when I got a mail from Google map to register for connect live 2019.
How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I learned about connect for the first time in our community group Bangladesh local guide. When I knew about this forum I searched our community in our country then I knew in detail about connect.
What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Almost everyday at night I try to check what’s new on connect. Sometimes it is twice a day when I post something and get notification about like and comment.
Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yeah, I have attended many Meetup on connect which were organised by our community Bangladesh local guide. But I have a long cherished wish to attend a Meetup outside the country and hope this wish will come true one-day.
But till now I don’t host any meet up.
What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
When I was introduced on connect by a Googler, that was my most favourite moment.
Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
There are many features here that I love a lot. But if I have to say one of them, it is that I have been able to meet many active foreign people here who are very friendly, I have been able to learn a lot from them. There are many places in the world that I don’t know if I will ever be able to go to, but I have been able to see & know about those places through them.
What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
If I could add one feature to Connect, it would be a real-time idea-sharing board to boost team collaboration and creativity.
Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
I have a plan this year that I will organize a meet-up through Connect and write a recap like others on connect.
Thank you 
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Happy birthday Connect Thanks for this post and Great initiative! @Julie_A
1. Where are you from? Kochi, Kerala, India 
2. When did you join Connect? October 9, 2019
3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place? I was active on Google + and used to post photos on Google. During that time Google+ shutdown happened unexpectedly and lost all my photos and memories created through Google+. That time I was searching online for a social networking site from Google to photos and to create memories and found Connect
4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect? I do not have a specific time.
5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect? No!
6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect? I like writing posts and viewing others post also.
7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love. Connect the people together. Connect the world together. Share ideas
8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could? making it more into a social networking site to Connect the people and world together and to share images and ideas. Create good memories thereby
9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year. Post more frequently and share more from places I have visited recently, to create memories.
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I will definitely join you on this one, @Julie_A
Dear @Julie_A
I’m happy to join this anniversary post and share my answers with all of you!
I’ve written them in English, with a little help from today’s smart translation tools.
After many years on Connect, I’ve learned how special it is to meet people from all over the world and share local stories that bring places to life. Here are my answers—straight from Rome, Italy!
1.Where are you from?
I was born in Milan, the beating heart of Northern Italy, but now I call Rome my home. Living in the Eternal City constantly fuels my passion for history, photography, and storytelling—there’s always a hidden corner or a timeless view waiting to be shared on Google Maps.
2.When did you join Connect?
I joined Connect right at its birth in 2016. I still remember the excitement of that launch email—something clicked, and I felt this was going to be more than just a forum. Over the years, Connect has become my weekend reading spot, much like flipping through a favorite magazine.
3.How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I received that first invitation email from Google itself—back when Connect was just starting. I was already an active mapper, uploading photos and reviews, so the idea of a dedicated space for Local Guides felt like a natural next step.
4.What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Usually over the weekend. Saturday mornings with coffee, or Sunday evenings when Rome slows down a bit. It’s my way of recharging: browsing Connect threads, exploring stories from every continent, and sometimes jumping into a conversation that inspires me.
5.Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes, I’ve attended several virtual meet-ups, especially during the past years, when gathering online helped keep the community spirit alive. I love hearing real voices behind the posts—it makes the world feel smaller and friendlier. One day, I’d love to host a walking meet-up in Rome’s less-touristy neighborhoods.
6.What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
Earning my “Guiding Stars 2022 Trivia” badge was a special moment, but honestly, becoming “Top Movers & Shakers Leaderboards Champion – 2024” felt even more personal. Beyond badges, my favorite moments are when someone from a completely different culture comments on a post —it reminds me why storytelling matters.
7.Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I really enjoy the badge system—it’s not just about collecting, but about celebrating progress and commitment. Each badge marks a little chapter in my Local Guides journey, encouraging me to stay curious and active.
8.What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
I’d add a more advanced search filter. Sometimes finding older, detailed posts (like photography tips or regional stories) isn’t easy. A more precise search—by tag, contributor, or even map region—could help resurface hidden gems from Connect’s rich archive.
9.Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
This year, Rome is celebrating for its Jubilee and a new Pope—two massive stories waiting to be told. I plan to share insider glimpses of how the city is transforming: not just landmarks, but local perspectives. I want to tell Rome’s story through small details—like the artisans restoring churches, or the quiet streets suddenly crowded with pilgrims.
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Great idea and a great way to celebrate Connect and its whole community. Happy birthday Connect! And thanks @Julie_A for this opportunity to add my two-penny-worth.
1. Where are you from?
I am from a small market town in Lancashire in the North West of England. It’s called Clitheroe. It lies about 40km north of Manchester. I was born in Manchester and I am often in the city - and often meeting other Local Guides there!
2. When did you join Connect?
I joined Connect in 2018
3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I love maps and I was browsing Google Maps. I wanted to know how to alter/add something to a map so I did an online search of how to do this - and thus I came across Connect. I’ve been a fan ever since, and have made some great real life, and online friends through it.
4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
I randomly dip in and out of Connect during the week, but nearly always check what’s going on on a Sunday evening before the week starts!
5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
I’ve attended many MeetUps both in this country and in Europe (EuroMeetUps). I’ve also hosted online MeetUps , especially during the Pandemic, and real life MeetUps (such as this one) in Manchester - including co-hosting EuroMeetUp Manchester 2024
6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
My favourite moment was receiving the invitation to New York earlier this year - which was wonderful in itself; but my favourite part was meeting in real life so many people I’ve Connected with online!
7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I love reading what other people are doing, and being able to see things happening right across the world - many have become friends: I also love real life MeetUps and making real life friends.
8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
I’d like a chat room or chat feature a bit like Whatsapp or Telegram but incorporated into Connect.
9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
I’m planning a real life MeetUp in Manchester in Mid September which will celebrate Connect’s birthday! Look out for details!!
I’m looking forward to reading everyone else’s stories too…
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Hi! I’m joining this too! Here are my answers
1. Where are you from? Mexico City, Mexico 
2. When did you join Connect? I joined last year (2024) but I became active until January of this year
3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place? I was looking for groups who made reviews in Google Maps and I came accross this Meet-Up in my city. I absolutely wanted to join, so I wrote a comment in their Facebook FanPage… I didn’t make it then, however, it was my first contact with the #TeamTacos and then to Connect
4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect? I have more time around 17 or 18 h (GMT -6)
5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect? Attended, but not hosted any… yet
6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect? I don’t understand what you mean, sorry 
7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love. I like the Challenges posted here, though I’m not sure if that’s a “feature”
8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could? An actual app for cell phones
9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year. Hopefully I’ll organize myself a Meet-Up, I’ll keep joining nice challenges, and posting about nice places
Happy Birthday!!
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Thank you for your kind words @Kumaarsantosh 
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Happy 9th anniversary Connec. It’s been an amazing journey of learning, sharing, and connecting with incredible Local Guides worldwide. Grateful for this inspiring community and excited to join the 9 questions for Connect’s 9th birthday celebration.
My entry is below…
1. Where are you from?
I am from Barishal, Bangladesh.
A beautiful riverine city.
2. When did you join Connect?
I joined Local Guides Connect on [30 November 2019] and it has been an amazing journey of learning and sharing ever since.
3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I first knew about Connect through Google Maps mail notifications while contributing reviews and photos. Curiosity led me to explore it further, and I discovered an inspiring global community of Local Guides Connect.
4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
I usually check Connect every Morning and especially on weekends when I have more time to read posts in day time.
5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes! I have attended and also hosted several meet-ups, focusing mainly in Crisis Situations, Accessibility features, Map Editing, PhotoWalk, Support Small businesses and Aaising Awareness in my local community. These events have been great opportunities to meet passionate Local Guides.
6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
My favorite moment on Connect was in 2021, when I was honored as a Guiding Star in the Helpful Hero category. It was not just an award it felt like recognition of every small effort I made to help people through my contributions.
7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I love the Meet-ups section on Connect because it helps us connect with like-minded people, collaborate on meaningful contributions and learn from the experiences of Local Guides worldwide. It’s simple but very effective. Through this feature, Local Guides can organize or join local meet-ups easily share experiences and learn from each other face-to-face. For many, this is the best way to build connections. It’s like turning the online community into real world friendships.
8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
I would add a Nearby Local Guides Finder. Many people want to collaborate with other Local Guides in their own city for meet-ups but they don’t know who is active nearby. A simple feature to find and connect with Local Guides by city or region would encourage teamwork and make local initiatives grow faster.
9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
This year, I plan to focus on supporting new local businesses through my contributions. For example, a new venture called Live Bakery has recently started in my city. Just a few months ago, it didn’t exist, but now several outlets have already opened in Barishal Sadar, and more are on the way. I want to help these new entrepreneurs by adding their shops to Google Maps with accurate information, photos, and reviews so that more people can discover them easily.
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Thank You Sir @TusharSuradkar
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You are most welcome, dear @Darshraj
Sure thing @Julie_A!
- Where are you from? Originally from Spruce Pine, North Carolina USA but now reside with my wife and 3 kids in Winston Salem NC.
- When did you join Connect? I joined Connect in July 2016!
- How did you learn about Connect in the first place? I learned about Connect from emails And Google Maps. I was a part of the unofficial Local Guides community and help test Google’s Travel app.
- What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect? I love checking Connect on weeknights, Monday mornings, and in between meetings at work!
- Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
I have attended multiple meetups from the US Trivia meetups, meetups during Covid, and hosted my own in Winston-Salem. My favorite meetups have been during In-Person Connect Love events where the crows is large and the vibes are so fun - What’s your favorite moment on Connect? Probably the excitement around the In-Person Connect Live events. People posting about applying, the homepage when people couldn’t contain their excitement and the posts went off the charts with interest. It’s the closest that Connect has to a rave
- Tell us about one Connect feature that you love. I love the most basic of features…images and links to business profiles shared by passionate Local Guides. This feature allows me to see others amazing reviews and interests and allows me to see I’m not alone in my crazy hobby
- What one feature would you add to Connect if you could? I want to see a feature like Google Maps has which is posting photo updates. To see a carousel or feed of photos that LGs have shared with a caption that allows users to share easier and tap into the more visual reader’s interests
- Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year. I plan on writing more posts on Connect about tips and tricks for helping businesses that are overlooked, have little to no content, and categories that could use extra love
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@KetanChhaniyara Your journey, your achievements and your guidence, are the things from which I’m taking notes. May your journey keep getting better day-by-day.
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Congratulations @Darshraj 
10 Years is a great feat to be celebrated. Here are my responses below:
Where are you from?
I hail from Nigeria, a truly blessed country rich in culture, diversity, and incredible spirit.
When did you join Connect?
I joined Connect in 2017, almost serendipitously! I was simply exploring Google Maps and accumulating points, and upon reaching Level 5, I received an invitation to join. While initially unsure what to expect, I quickly recognized Connect as an intelligent and vibrant platform. It offered me a fantastic avenue to express myself, proudly showcase my culture, and learn immensely from the experiences and perspectives of others around the globe.
How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
As I mentioned, my introduction to Connect was quite organic. It happened while I was casually engaging with Google Maps; upon reaching Level 5, an email invitation to join the platform landed in my inbox.
What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
I primarily enjoy catching up on Connect during weekends, or whenever my schedule allows for some dedicated time to explore what others are sharing about their communities.
Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Absolutely! I’ve had the privilege of attending numerous meetups, which have been invaluable in connecting me with incredible people both locally and internationally. Through these events, I’ve met wonderful individuals like @KashifMisidia @RosyKohli Surendra, @AnuradhaP, ValeriaAmusque @HiroyukiTakisawa @Bishowvijaya @MortenCopenhagen @NareshDarji, @Jesi @FalguniP, Chiara, Justin O’Brien, @OSAMA1 and many more. More thanks for my community members who I learnt more about connect from like @SanyaOdare, @Sagir, @EmekaUlor, @ChinonsoOnukwugha , Sayo, @Bassey, @U-RoyEmeka, Samson and many more.
Beyond attending, I’ve also had the pleasure of hosting several meetups, encompassing both physical and virtual formats. I particularly favor physical meetups when I’m in Nigeria for the direct interaction, and virtual meetups for international engagements. My hosted meetups have covered a diverse range of topics, from celebrating culture and organizing hospital walks to practical map editing sessions.
What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
My favorite aspects of Connect are undoubtedly the badges—they provide a wonderful sense of accomplishment and progression. I also deeply appreciate reading the inspiring stories from fellow Local Guides who exhibit such incredible passion for the movement.
Tell us about one Connect feature that you love
I genuinely love the badge feature. It creates a strong sense of progression, motivating me to continue contributing and boosting my energy to do even more.
What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
If I could add one feature to Connect, it would be a dedicated mobile application. This would significantly enhance accessibility and user-friendliness.
Beyond that, I envision several exciting additions:
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A “watcher/reader” icon on posts, allowing us to see the number of people currently viewing.
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Gamified “brain teasers”: A fun feature where users could play individually or invite others online for group challenges, winning points.
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Most importantly, a “streak award” option with corresponding streak badges. This would encourage consistent engagement, motivating users to log in regularly to maintain their streaks while exploring new contributions. I believe these ideas would truly elevate Connect as a platform!
Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year:
I genuinely enjoy sharing insights about my culture and the vibrant happenings in my local community. This year, I intend to continue these contributions, as I find the platform an excellent space for celebrating and sharing my rich cultural heritage.
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Thank you so much dear @RachnaGajjar for your kind words.
It truly means a lot to know that my journey and experiences can offer something of value to others.
Wishing you all the best on your own journey too - may it be filled with growth, discovery, and success. God bless.
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Where are you from?
I’m from the historic city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
When did you join Connect?
I joined Connect in March 2019.
How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
I first learned about Connect through the Google Local Guides newsletter. But the real learning and inspiration came from our amazing Team India Local Guides community. A special mention to dear friend and mentor @TusharSuradkar sir, who invited me to join the group.
What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
I make it a point to check Connect once a day—it’s like my daily dose of positivity and learning.
Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes! I’ve hosted one or two meet-ups, and I make sure to attend almost every meet-up in our region. Each one is a wonderful opportunity to learn, share, and connect with passionate Local Guides.
What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
I love participating in challenges and supporting meaningful causes like sustainability, empowering small business owners, and green initiatives. These moments give me true joy and purpose.
Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
I absolutely love meeting Local Guides from all around the world, discovering their culture and stories through their posts. It feels like traveling every day through their experiences. Oh, and those badges—just like school days—they keep the spirit alive and push me to do better!
What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
I would love to see a “Story Scheduling” feature. It would make planning and posting content so much easier.
Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
This year, I have a series of challenges and meet-ups lined up. My big dream is to host a mega physical meet-up right here in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, and bring the Local Guides community closer together.
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Many thanks for this amazing Q&A @Julie_A
I’ve been going through the comments and everyone’s stories are amazing! 
And boy, it has been a wonderful 10 years as a Local Guide for me too 
Here are my answers –
1. Where are you from?
Mumbai, the city that never sleeps (but I do, occasionally)!
2. When did you join Connect?
August 11, 2016 - feels ancient, right? 
3. How did you learn about Connect in the first place?
Before Connect was officially launched, there was a private Local Guides group on Google+, I was a part of it and received updates from there. Later an email popped up in my inbox to join Connect, after which I never left the party!
4. What time of the day/week do you like to check what’s new on Connect?
Whenever my cat’s not sleeping on my keyboard, I’m usually scrolling through Connect! So there’s no specific time. 
5. Have you attended or hosted a meet-up on Connect?
Yes, I have attended approximately 35-40 national and international meet-ups. I’ve always supported my fellow Local Guides and made many friends along the way. 
Hosting a meetup is next on my bucket list, fingers crossed. 
Few of the meet-ups that I’ve recently attended 
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Tree plantation - 9th birthday celebrations hosted by @Globe_trotter_Ish
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Katra Market Meetup – Explore & Map with Local Guides hosted by @Sagarkanherkar
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Pagoda Diaries – A Accessible, calm & Connected Journey to Recreate & Reflect hosted by @Shrut19
6. What’s your favorite moment on Connect?
Making friends, participating in meet-ups and challenges for meaningful causes and learning new things - it’s like a never-ending buffet of awesomeness!
7. Tell us about one Connect feature that you love.
Adding photos has now become simple and quick. Also, the preview message before posting is spot-on!
I understand the new Connect was made to be more mobile friendly, but I just wish it doesn’t turn out to be a new social media platform (as people are requesting for a chat option 
) and please leave out Google Maps too.
8. What one feature would you add to Connect if you could?
Bring back the “Trending” and “Featured” posts section like in the old Connect, and I’ll be happier than ever! 
9. Tell us about one thing you’re planning to share or do on Connect this year.
I’ll try to attend more meetups and challenges than I have and maybe host a meet-up myself.
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