Whether it is a thank you and hope to see you again note from the owner, putting a local business on the map, sharing your experience with others or a picture that has thousands of views, all these are part of what the local guides program means to me: sense of community, exchange, help, recognition, appreciation & friendly competition.
I am Dania, a level 7 guide living in Prague, Czechia and I love what I do. I am originally from Romania, but I moved here 4 years ago. When I started contributing to Google Maps, that is about 3 years ago, I did not even know that there is Local Guides Program in place; I used Google Maps quite intensively before that whenever I was travelling around and was trying to discover unique places, but I never thought this is something I can contribute to, until one day 
I started reviewing places, because I thought, it is fun, the world through my eyes (or, at least through my phone’s eyes): explore the world through food, take pictures, and write a review, upload & post.
From looking at my profile, you can immediately tell that I am a foodie; I mainly review restaurants. It is an amazing feeling, when you see that your photo or review is becoming popular and it is receiving quite good feedback. It is very rewarding when the owner wants to know your experience in order to improve it, in that moment I realize that, my voice is heard and I can help others.
One experience I had in my last travel - when I ordered something, all ingredients were listed and there was nowhere written that it contains mayonnaise. I am not allergic but some people are, even some of my friends. I shared this with the owner, who was very open to take in every feedback. A couple of months later I received a note from the owner, that all menus have been changed. This was awesome. I could not believe it. My feedback was heard and made things change for the better.
I am really happy to be part of this community, knowing I am surrounded by people who are passionate about what they are doing, who like me, want to help by sharing they experience of the world.
Thanks so much for reading through
Dania