Hello Local Guides,
Today, I’m excited to spotlight an inspiring and passionate member of our community Chiara Maria Cervetta known as @ChiaraMariaC from Hamburg, Germany, where she works as a florist, bringing colour and joy into people’s lives every day. But her creativity doesn’t stop there she’s also a dedicated Local Guide with a big heart for helping users online, exploring Google products, and diving deep into the world of artificial intelligence, especially conversational AIs and large language models.
Chiara was recognized as a Guiding Star of 2021 in the Community Builder category. Her passion for connecting with others, love for amusement parks and fun fairs, and enthusiasm for making a positive impact truly set her apart.
When and how did you become a Local Guide?
I became a Google Local Guide on the 3rd of June, 2017 and am currently on level 9.
One day, I noticed a button on Google Maps that allowed me to upload photos. I thought to myself, “Wow, I can contribute by adding photos to Google Maps!” Curiosity led me to search for more information online, where I discovered the Google Local Guides program, and from there, I decided to join.
I really enjoy helping millions of users and businesses on Google Maps with my useful contributions.
What inspires you to contribute to Local Guides Connect?
What inspires me to contribute to Local Guides Connect is the opportunity to connect with like-minded people from around the world both fellow Local Guides and Googler’s. It’s amazing to learn from diverse cultures, hear unique stories, and see how others help users and businesses through Google Maps. These shared experiences motivate me to keep improving my contributions and stay excited about making Google Maps even more helpful for everyone.
What is your favourite type of contribution? Why?
My favourite type of contribution is uploading photos to Google Maps. I especially enjoy sharing images of accessibility features like ramps and elevators, which can be incredibly helpful for users with special needs. It’s fulfilling to know that my photos give others a clearer idea of what to expect whether it’s navigating a building, planning a visit, or simply feeling more confident about a place. Helping make information more accessible is what makes photo contributions so meaningful to me.
How do you define leadership, and what does it mean to you?
To me, leadership is about supporting and inspiring others. A true leader creates a positive impact by guiding people toward common goals and fostering an environment where everyone feels valued, heard, and included. Leadership means leading with empathy, respect, and openness, creating opportunities for others to thrive and feel safe. Whether online or offline, a leader builds a sense of belonging where everyone regardless of background feels welcomed and supported.
In what ways do you lead or make an impact outside of Local Guides Connect?
I believe online communities are powerful spaces to make a positive impact, and I genuinely enjoy helping others with their questions. I serve as an administrator for two unofficial Local Guides Facebook groups: Local Guides Germany/Deutschland and European Guides. I focus on keeping these spaces supportive and welcoming by answering questions, sharing helpful insights, and fostering a positive atmosphere.
Beyond Local Guides, I’m also passionate about artificial intelligence, especially conversational AIs and large language models. I actively participate in several official AI Discord servers, where I help users troubleshoot and learn. Being part of these communities lets me combine my interests while supporting others.
What keeps you motivated to lead and contribute?
For me, it’s important that users feel heard and respected. I’ve seen how discouraging it can be to receive no response or worse, an unkind one. That’s why I make an effort to offer thoughtful, supportive answers whenever I can. Whether it’s helping with the Local Guides program or AI communities, knowing I’ve made someone feel valued keeps me motivated and passionate about contributing.
Who inspires you the most, and why?
What inspires me most is the value of respect, fairness, and helping others. I believe everyone deserves to be heard and treated equally, regardless of background or status. I’m motivated to offer support whenever I can, especially in online communities where people come together to share their ideas, challenges, and successes. Creating a safe, welcoming space where others feel appreciated and empowered is what truly drives me.
How do you think we can inspire more women to be a part of our community?
We already have a strong foundation on Local Guides Connect, where women are welcomed and encouraged. To inspire even more women to join, we can amplify their voices by regularly featuring their stories and contributions. Showcasing the impact women have made can motivate others to step up and feel empowered. Creating spaces for mentorship and open discussion around unique experiences can further strengthen this support. I’m truly grateful for the incredible initiative led by @FalguniP and other Local Guides to spotlight inspiring women it’s a powerful step toward greater inclusion and representation in our community.
Have you faced any challenges? How did you overcome them?
Yes, I’ve faced several challenges, especially in online spaces. At times, I’ve been harassed by men who crossed personal boundaries, or had my thoughtful, constructive feedback ignored or even blocked by AI developers. I’ve also experienced my helpful contributions being overlooked or undervalued, and sometimes I’m even asked if I’m a bot myself.
Despite these experiences, I stay committed to contributing positively. I believe deeply in the value of sharing knowledge and helping others. When challenges arise, I reflect on their impact and lean on supportive friends when needed. If the situation is manageable, I shift my focus back to what drives me building respectful, positive online communities.
What barriers do you face to contribute in community as a women and how do you overcome them?
Similar to the challenges I mentioned in my previous answer, being a woman in an online community can sometimes mean facing skepticism, unwanted attention, or under-appreciation, but I continue to contribute by pushing forward, helping others, and staying true to what’s important to me.
What message would you like to share with women around the world?
To all the amazing women around the world: Stay strong, stay true to yourself, and never let anyone make you doubt your power. You have the ability to make a difference, and your voice matters. Keep striving for progress, supporting each other, and shining bright! Let’s continue together to make the world a better place!
Chiara’s dedication and passion remind us all of the power of community, kindness, and leadership. Through her contributions and support, she continues to make Local Guides Connect a more welcoming and helpful place for everyone. We’re grateful to have such a shining example of what it means to lead with heart and inspire others along the way.
Thanks for sharing 
However, this was a very long time ago, and I truly admire the outstanding work of all AI developers at every company! 
