As, we continue with our International women’s day’ celebrations today & beyond! , it gives me immense joy to write the recap of this meet-up as International Women’s Day (IWD) is not just about celebrating women but also about acknowledging their contributions, inspiring change, and fostering inclusivity. This year, we marked the occasion with a heartwarming and insightful virtual meetup, bringing together inspiring women from across the globe. The event was a celebration of empowerment, diversity, and the impact that women have on communities through Google Maps and beyond.
One of the highlights of the meetup was a special interview with @Cecilita , an accomplished Local Guide and Connect Moderator from Argentina. With over nine years of experience as a Local Guide and five years as a Connect Moderator, Cecilia shared her journey of contributions, community building, and advocacy for accessibility. Her story of balancing a technical career, family life, and a passion for mapping resonated with many participants. You can read more about her interview here.
The meetup saw active participation from inspiring local guides around the globe who shared insights on accessibility, community engagement, and how women can participate on a more active role in Local Guides community. The discussion also emphasized the need for more women in community initiatives such as the TRAC Campaign, which focuses on adding missing roads to Google Maps.
Cecilia emphasized that accessibility goes beyond ramps and physical infrastructure—it’s about ensuring a place is welcoming and inclusive. Reviewing spaces based on noise levels, lighting, and language accessibility can significantly impact people with diverse needs. Her efforts to host community meetups, including sustainability-focused initiatives, have inspired many.
A key discussion point was how we could encourage more women participation as women often hesitate to contribute due to time / priority constraints or self-doubt. Cecilia encouraged women to start small—whether through writing a review, uploading a photo, or sharing accessibility insights. Isha mentioned that “Every contribution matters and counts”. Participants were encouraged to step forward, break barriers, and use technology as a tool for advocacy.
This meetup was a reminder that every contribution—big or small—creates an impact. As we continue to celebrate women’s achievements, let’s work towards a world where inclusivity and accessibility are the norm.
Special thanks to @AdrianLunsong for recording the meet-up and hosting it on YouTube 
For more details about the meet-up , watch the full meetup recording here:
To all women Local Guides: your voice, your perspective, and your contributions matter. Keep mapping, keep sharing, and keep inspiring! 
#WomenatLocalGuides #MapsForAll #InternationalWomensDay #WomenWhoMap
fue un gran Meet Up!
