Local Guide Rizwan Shah, more famously known online as @DrFoodieOfficial , is equally passionate about food and wheelchair accessibility. He’s from Karachi, Pakistan, and in his own words, he’s “probably been to every restaurant or roadside eatery in town and left reviews on Google Maps.”
Having a family member who uses a wheelchair when going out has made Rizwan well aware of the importance of accessibility. Planning family events is often challenging, he says, as not every place offers suitable ramps, elevators, and other inclusive features. Then, a few years ago, Rizwan attended several virtual meet-ups hosted by Accessibility Champions @KashifMisidia and @JaneBurunina . Inspired by other Local Guides’ commitment and eager to help people, who, like his grandmother, need a wheelchair to get around, Rizwan started adding “a couple more lines” to his Google Maps reviews.
Here’s how he champions accessibility on Google Maps and beyond.
How do you generate visibility for accessibility information on Google Maps?
I pay close attention to places like restaurants, shopping malls, parks, markets, schools, and universities. I make an effort to gather helpful information, such as the availability of accessible bathrooms, ramps, lifts, and more, to share in my reviews and photos on Maps. I enjoy pointing out wheelchair-accessible paths for people with disabilities.
Are there posts on Connect that show how you champion accessibility?
I’ve posted about the accessibility features of certain places, focusing on shopping malls:
- An
Accessibility Friendly Mall for All - Pakistan’s Largest Shopping Mall “Luckyone Karachi” - From Ramps to Restrooms: The Ocean Mall’s Accessible Features
- From Naan to Pizza - A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Innovation
- From Historic Landmarks to Mouthwatering Cuisine - A Memorable Journey through Peshawar
I’ve also been a part of many TV shows and short documentaries with Kashif Misidia, sharing valuable information about accessibility and the Local Guides program. We’ve appeared on channels like ARY Digital, Hum TV, Aaj TV, Bol TV, Masala TV, GNN, and We News.
What do you wish other Local Guides knew about accessibility?
When we visit a place, let’s not only notice the accessibility features but also record them or mention if they are not available. This will help many people who rely on Google Maps, especially those with family members needing a wheelchair to get around.
What’s your tip for finding your passion through the Local Guides program?
After I joined the Local Guides program and met amazing people, like my mentor Kashif Misidia and friends @Bilal_shaikh and @Swalay , I found a way not only to guide people but also to send a strong message to places that need to improve accessibility.
Google Maps and the Local Guides program are now an important part of my daily routine. Sharing helpful info is really satisfying. It also boosts your creativity and motivation, allowing you to learn from others and form long-lasting friendships.
Is there anything else we should know about you?
I’m a whizz at digital marketing and I have a cool YouTube channel with over 127K subscribers.
Thank you for what you do, Rizwan!
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Thanks a bunch for the congratulations. Exciting times ahead & many shows are coming so stay tuned for more 
