Hello, Local Guides! 
As part of the She Leads series, I am incredibly proud and grateful to celebrate @Tejal, a passionate leader making a difference through community work, sustainability initiatives, and accessibility advocacy. 
Tejal is a Local Guide Level 8, Google Product Expert, and Canva Ambassador for India. She is deeply committed to community-driven initiatives, whether it’s conducting awareness sessions on sustainability, leading virtual tours for individuals with physiological challenges, or promoting e-waste management as a Swachhta Champion. Her leadership extends beyond digital contributions, creating a cleaner, more inclusive, and informed world.
Let’s dive into her inspiring journey!
Tell us about yourself.
I’m Tejal Chhaya, a Local Guide Level 8, Google Product Expert, and Ambassador for India with four years of experience. I’m passionate about community work, conducting awareness sessions on topics like using Canva for education. I also lead virtual tours for physiological patients who can’t visit certain places. Additionally, I’m a Swachhta Champion for my town, organizing sessions on sustainable causes like e-waste management to promote a healthier environment.
When and how did you become a Local Guide?
Unknowingly, I uploaded photos of the zoo to Google Maps for Sarkaria Baug, Junagadh. I received emails from people about the place, and from that, the idea of becoming a Local Guide came to me.
What inspires you to contribute to Local Guides Connect?
As already engaged in community-focused activities, it offers a platform to collaborate, exchange ideas, and inspire others to make a positive impact in their own communities.
What is your favorite type of contribution? Why?
Information about accessibility, ensuring resources and services are available to everyone, including those with disabilities.
Guidance on e-waste management and proper waste segregation to reduce environmental harm.
Educating people on how to separate e-waste, recyclables, organic waste, and hazardous materials is crucial for promoting sustainability and protecting the environment.
How do you define leadership, and what does it mean to you?
Leadership is about creating a positive impact in your community and inspiring others to take initiative. It’s about serving others, motivating collaboration, and working toward a greater purpose, whether through sustainability, education, or supporting those in need.
In what ways do you lead or make an impact outside of Local Guides Connect?
Outside of Local Guides Connect, my leadership shines through:
Community initiatives and awareness campaigns on sustainability and environmental conservation.
Hosting sessions on e-waste management and sustainable practices.
Conducting virtual tours for physiological patients to make places accessible.
Promoting cleanliness and sustainability as a Swachhta Champion.
What keeps you motivated to lead and contribute?
The ability to make a positive impact on my community and the people around me. Seeing the difference I can make—whether it’s helping others access education, raising awareness about sustainability, or improving accessibility—drives me to continue my efforts. The desire to create a better, more informed world keeps me motivated to lead and contribute.
Who inspires you the most, and why?
- @NareshDarji & @rajuroyal constantly helped me in getting things done on Connect & Google Maps. *
How do you think we can inspire more women to be a part of our community?
To inspire more women to join our community, we should:
Showcase Female Role Models: Highlight impactful women to inspire others.
Offer Mentorship and Support: Provide guidance in skill-building, confidence, and leadership.
Highlight Participation Benefits: Emphasize personal and professional growth opportunities.
Foster an Empowering Environment: Create spaces where women feel heard and valued.
Focus on Education and Awareness: Offer workshops tailored to women’s interests.
Provide Flexibility: Ensure accessible participation options for women with various commitments.
Have you faced any challenges? How did you overcome them?
Yes, like many others, I’ve faced challenges. One of the biggest has been balancing my various roles, particularly when working on community initiatives while managing personal and professional commitments.
To overcome this, I focused on effective time management, setting clear priorities, and delegating tasks when needed. Collaborating with others also helped share the workload. Staying motivated by focusing on the positive impact I was making and celebrating small successes kept me on track.
Another challenge has been overcoming barriers to accessibility and awareness, especially when working with underserved communities. I addressed this by organizing targeted sessions, using virtual platforms, and ensuring clear, simple communication.
What barriers do you face to contribute to the community as a woman, and how do you overcome them?
As a woman, some barriers I face include balancing personal, professional, and community responsibilities, as well as overcoming societal expectations. I overcome these by prioritizing tasks, managing my time effectively, and seeking support from like-minded individuals. Collaborating with others and staying focused on my goals helps me navigate these challenges and continue contributing.
What message would you like to share with women around the world?
To women around the world, I would say: Believe in your strength and potential. You have the power to create change, inspire others, and make a lasting impact. Don’t let challenges hold you back—embrace them as opportunities for growth.
Support each other, lift each other up, and never underestimate the power of your voice. Keep pushing forward, and know that you are capable of achieving greatness. 
Tejal Chhaya’s journey shows how passion, dedication, and community-driven efforts can create a lasting impact. From advocating for sustainability and accessibility to leading virtual tours for those in need, she embodies the true spirit of leadership. Her unwavering commitment to education, environmental awareness, and inclusivity continues to inspire many.
Keep shining:)
