The annual Google for Nigeria Event this year happened last week and as usual, the Local Guide program featured properly.
Keynote
The event started with the usual Keynote presentation. As informative as it was exciting as it contained mostly, the launch of new products. There were a couple but more exciting is the new features on Google maps.
First off, the largely popular voice navigation now in local accent with proper pronunciations of places and locations. Then the various navigation for the popular Danfo and okada (bike) transport options. The participants actually loved this. Then the launch of streetview in Abuja (finally), Ibadan and other cities.
The keynote recognized the efforts of Local Guides in making Google maps as updated as it is presently.
Digital Playground
This section was for participants to experience various Google products live. The Local Guides stand was decorated with a backdrop of Local Guides including a short introduction of them, some of their lists on Google maps and a sample of various pictures uploaded by different Local Guides, it was lovely.
I was given the opportunity to be among other Local guides as well as brand ambassadors at this stand to communicate with users and participants. Lots of participants showed up and we spent time answering their questions and telling them how to join the program and become active.
Some came to find out what the program was about. I met a lot of participants who were already Local Guides but weren’t well informed even though they received several mails and prompts to add pictures, review locations, etc. Some were even on Level 6! Everyone I met, I directed to their contributions page and used that to tell them how they can be more active. I was able to enroll a couple of participants; those that had no contributions at all. Enrolling was as simple as contributing a photo or a review of the venue of the event. I never answered so many questions on the program as much as I did on this day. It was refreshing to see the genuine interest. A couple of visitors wanted help with uploading videos and all sorts. I learnt a lot speaking to all the participants I was able to speak with and even got inspiration for a new personal project on Google Maps.
Evening Event
The evening event was pretty much a display of the Art, culture, music and Food of Nigeria. It was as colourful as it was vibrant.
There were stands for the geographic zones of the country
Nigerian fashion was also displayed at different points too.
The event was meticulous with its representation of the art of the country.
Then there was musical performance by artistes of repute
Great night out!