Local Guide Naresh Darji( @NareshDarji ) lives inIndia and is interested in general accessibility. He learned about accessibility through meet-ups organized by other Local Guides and now passionately takes part in different initiatives, like the Accessible Life project. When it comes to his contributions on Google Maps, Naresh likes to use the accessibility emoji in his reviews, update accessibility details, and add photos.
Read on to learn more about his journey with accessibility.
Why are you interested in accessibility? Is there a particular area in which you are interested the most (wheelchair accessibility, vision accessibility, etc.)?
To be honest, I was totally unaware of accessibility at first, but then I attended @Tejal 'smeet-up at the National School for the Blind in Valsad, and what I saw inspired me to do something for the people there.
The school has fully accessible facilities for people who are blind, deaf, and with physical disabilities. But how can they get accurate information about wheelchair-accessible ramps, paths, and toilets in the world outside the school? Since then, I have decided that I must help. I believe that Google Maps is an excellent platform, [where] I can help millions of people by making a simple contribution.
I update Google Maps with wheelchair accessibility and other accessibility information.
Why are you passionate about accessibility information being shown on Google Maps?
It’s the time of technology; most people in the world use Google Maps to save time and get accurate information about a place. Adding accessibility information on the map makes life easier for the people [who need it].
What have you done to help add accessibility information or generate visibility for accessibility information on Google Maps?
Whenever I visit a place, I first try to add photos and update its accessibility information on Google Maps. I like to use the accessibility emoji in my reviews and lists. I learned a lot from @StephenAbraham and @KashifMisidia through virtual meet-ups.
What area (mobility, vision, hearing, etc.) are you most interested in improving?
I’m looking forward to improving all areas of accessibility on Google Maps.
Do you have a favorite accessibility contribution on Google Maps?
My favorite contribution is to [ @ErmesT 's]Accessible Life project in Google Earth. It can be challenging to find [out about the] accessibility features [of a place] on the map, but many people can [get] accurate information by using Google Earth as well as Google My Maps. I want to contribute more to this project.
Can you tell us more about your interest in the Accessible Life project?
Accessible Life is an excellent project for mapping and sharing accessible paths and natural sites around the world. The project allows people with disabilities to discover accessible natural places and explore them before visiting. It is a noble idea.
I would suggest to other Local Guide friends to also make their valuable contributions to this project.
What’s your favorite Google Maps feature?
There are many useful features in Google Maps, but I especially like “Add a missing place.” I can help many people around me by adding small businesses or public places on the map. I’ve added more than 1000 locations so far.
What do you wish other Local Guides knew about accessibility?
Give importance to accessibility in your daily contributions. Please, visit places [for people with disabilities] around you as well and let them know about the accessibility features on Google Maps so they can use them.
What one feature would you like to see on Google Maps?
I would like to see a separate tab with accessibility features within the photo section so that others can easily find that information.
What’s your tip for finding your passion through the Local Guides program?
The Local Guides program is a fun and easy way to explore your interests and passions. It also gives you renewed creativity, inspiration, and vision [by] giving you the opportunity to learn from each other and make friends for life.
Are there any posts on Connect or meet-ups you’ve hosted that help demonstrate your contributions around accessibility to Local Guides, Google Maps and your community?
I haven’t hosted many meet-ups but have attended meet-ups [by other Local Guides], which have greatly improved my accessibility contributions.
- “Accessible Life in Google Earth - Sarita Udhyan”
- “(Recap) Accessible Gujarat - Gandhinagar Railway Station”
- “(Recap) Accessible Jamnagar #WAW19”
Is there anything else we should know about you?
I have been an active Local Guide in India since the program started. I like hiking in the forests and climbing mountains, as well as capturing the natural beauty with my camera.
Are you or someone you know an Accessibility Champion? Tell us how you’re making a positive impact in the comments below or nominate another Local Guide using our nomination form.
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Champion.You are a true inspiration to many of us. Well deserved. Thanks 
