Let’s go way back to the start. Around 2017, I was 18 and I was a teen who dislike going out, even to school. Often being the kid who gets bullied, I fear to go out and socialize with others. I somehow developed an inferiority complex within myself. So, all I love to do at that time was only gaming, that was the only way I felt that I was meant for something. My mom got super worried and introduced me to the Local Guides program so that I would go out more. I instantly got hooked to it.
Every time I get an email like this. It really meant a lot to me. Knowing that what I did made a huge impact, it made me more confident. People used to call me worthless and now the contributions I make reach to people all over the world. This made me go out more and take lots of photos of new places. I met business owners and other Local Guides along the way. I even developed the hobby of travelling. I started travelling to all my favourite places and write my reviews on Google Maps. I even went to a music festival. Imagine an introvert surrounded with 40 thousand people. It was scary at first but then it got really fun.
I remember the time I added a hawker stall nearby my home. This hawker stall is best for their Indian food, especially their signature egg chappati. However, they barely have many customers since it’s hidden from the main road and people really didn’t give their food a chance. After adding the location on Google Maps, his business spiked and when I met him after a few months. He gave me a hug and thanked for making his stall known. He’s even planning to open a restaurant soon. That moment was really special for me as I knew that my contribution as a Local Guide makes huge difference.
The Local Guides program changed me and my lifestyle to a whole new level and I feel like I started living my life in the best way possible. I’ve reviewed over 200 places and reached over 100,000 views. Every review makes me realize that my work is being appreciated by many. This program changed my life and made me an outgoing person. Now I love socializing and get to know new people thanks to the Local Guides program.