Hello Everyone,
I’m going to try not to be too dramatic here, but please pardon my excitement if I get a little carried away.
That’s me from 2018. The orange tshirt guy not the girl 
Some of you might remember me from Connect Live 2018 and 2019. I used to be quite active in the Local Guides community—writing reviews, posting photos, and learning so much from my amazing fellow Local Guides.
And then I went MIA - pretty abruptly - during pandemic. I am logging back in after more than half a decade! Unbelievable how life passes us by. 
In 2020, I had decide that I should take a step back to pause, reset, and figure out my next chapter would be.
Like it did for so many of us, that time completely shifted my perspective on life and how I wanted to experience the world.
I have to admit, a lot has happened over these past few years! I earned a second Master’s degree, packed up and moved to the US, and even had the honor of speaking at BRICS and TEDx. I started working with the United Nations in the Climate and Sustainability space which was a dream come true.
But something did not leave me and that was the love of geography. One thing that came to me was that the reason I love maps in general is because of my zeal for learning about different cultures and the diversity of people all around the world.
But through all of those changes, one thing never left me: my absolute love for geography. I realized that my obsession with maps actually stems from a deeper zeal for learning about different cultures and the incredible diversity of people all over the globe.
That’s when it hit me. I decided I need to visit every single country in the world—all 193 recognized by the UN. It was a childhood dream of mine, and I finally realized it was a dream I had to pursue.
Connect Live 2018 gave me a purpose (and a US visa!). At the time, the US was only the second country I had ever visited in my life. By Connect Live 2019, a fire had been lit inside me. I knew I had to go out and truly experience these cultures as a traveler, not just skim the surface as a cursory tourist.
I haven’t looked back since. I’ve now been to 47 out of the 193 countries, and I’m typing this pulled over on the side of the road in my rental car, watching the sun set over the Moldovan sky.
Why am I writing this now? Because I miss the Local Guides community. I miss my peers and the moments we shared.
I think it’s finally time I start sharing the photos, reviews, and stories I’ve been quietly gathering over my 6 years incognito.
If you remember me from all those years back, please do drop a comment and say hi.
I have missed you a lot.
And if we haven’t met yet, I would be absolutely honored to connect with you.
Google Maps and this amazing LG community have guided me all these years across thousands of miles in my journey —one passport stamp at a time. YOU all make it possible!
A big thank you and hugs for all your reviews and the incredible things you do for the community.
it’s great to see you again!
I took the leap too after 2019 and started becoming active again in December 2025. I had received my Connect Live confirmations in 2017 and 2019, but unfortunately couldn’t secure the US visa back then. So making my comeback and finally reaching Connect Live 2026 in Singapore felt extra special—my second country visited! 
Six years is quite a journey, but it’s wonderful to see you returning with the same passion.
I definitely remember you from the old Connect Live days, my friend! 
