In honor of our “five years of Connect” celebration, I spoke with @KlaudiyaG , one of our incredible Google Moderators, to learn more about her role, her favorite aspects of the platform, and more. Read on to learn more about Klaudiya in her own words.
Katie: I’ve heard you have been on the Google moderation team the longest! How long have you been a Google moderator?
Klaudiya: This December I’m celebrating my 4th anniversary since I first became a Google Moderator. It’s strange that almost four years have passed already. I still feel like it was yesterday when I first logged on Connect. Well, you know what they say, “time flies when you’re having fun.”
Katie: For those who aren’t as familiar, can you give a behind-the-scenes peek at your job and explain what you do as a Google Moderator?
Klaudiya: As Google Moderators, we all strive to maintain a safe and fun environment for Local Guides by using Connect to build a thriving community. Making sure that the discussions on the platform are aligned with the program Terms and Conditions (and the 5 core values) is one of our main priorities. We also aim to recognize our super-heroes and amplify their stories to inspire others.
Katie: What is your favorite thing about Connect?
Klaudiya: The people. I love this community, and there’s a reason why it is so amazing. It is because of the wonderful Local Guides who make it such a diverse and special place. I love seeing folks connecting with each other, and for the last 3+ years I had a front stage ticket to watch over friendship blossoming and the community flourishing.
Katie: How has Connect changed over the years since you’ve been on the team?
Klaudiya: There were some significant changes that happened. Back in 2017 when I first became a Google Moderator, Connect had a completely different look, and since then the platform was revamped. So many new tools and features got launched that it’s hard to keep up with all the updates. But when you think about it, that’s how it should be. The world is changing at such a fast pace (especially now) that we have to keep up with the evolution of our community. That’s why we appreciate the ideas and feedback that Local Guides share with us. We find it important to listen to what the community has to say and we try to adapt and evolve as much as possible in order to make their experience on Connect better. But, I’m glad that one thing hasn’t changed and that’s how loving as well as supporting the community is.
Katie: What’s your favorite memory of something posted on Connect?
Klaudiya: That’s a very difficult question. There are so many incredible posts that I read every day which makes it hard for me to pick one. Right now I’m very excited and overjoyed from all the meet-ups, challenges, and stories that I see related to Connect’s 5th birthday. I also like that I constantly learn so many great lessons and tips from the #OneAccessibility team which I try to incorporate in my own contributions to help make the world a more accessible place for everyone. Taking part in @ermest’s Double the fun- Showcase your country #TeamChallengewas so fun and I absolutely loved it. Something that warms my heart is that even in the hard times, like the pandemic right now, folks still find a way to connect with one another and help others in even more creative ways. You see, I told you that I have difficulties choosing one. 
Katie: Anything else you’d like to share about Connect or your experience about being a Google Moderator?
Klaudiya: Being a Google Moderator really is a dream come true. Having the chance to be surrounded by so many inspiring, caring, brilliant, and unique people is something that I’m truly grateful for.
Thank you to Klaudiya and all of the Google moderators for all that you do! Please join me in celebrating Klaudiya, Connect, and this amazing community in the comments below.
