Hello Local Guides,
Here’s another shining star of our community and I am excited to shine the “She Leads” spotlight on @Zuhralc , a passionate Sales Assistant and Marketing Agent from Kenya, and a dedicated member of the Local Guides community. Since joining in late 2020, Zuhra has made an incredible impact by contributing her insights, especially in the areas of accessibility and inclusion.
Here’s a look into Zuhra’s journey and what drives her to contribute to Local Guides Connect:
When and how did you become a Local Guide?
I became a Local Guide in late 2020. I was fed up with other social media platforms and was looking for a platform where I could network and connect with new friends. That’s how I found myself on Connect. I was checking my Dubai trip pictures on Google Photos, and later, I was on Connect. That’s how I was spotted by Connect Moderator, @KashifMisidia from Pakistan.
What inspires you to contribute to Local Guides Connect?
Diversity and inclusion inspired me to contribute to Connect. Immediately, I asked Kashif to mentor me, and he articulated what Connect is all about. By then, I was on bed rest recovering from gallbladder removal surgery. I got enough time to learn, and that’s when I started contributing.
What is your favourite type of contribution? Why?
My favourite is Accessibility 
and Inclusion. This is because I was literally very unwell, couldn’t walk well, couldn’t do some chores, and couldn’t support myself because I was recovering. I had to depend on others for almost six months. My perspective on people with disabilities changed, as I felt how hard it can be when we don’t put ourselves in their shoes.
How do you define leadership, and what does it mean to you?
Leadership is the ability to guide, inspire, and influence others toward a common goal or vision. It involves making decisions, taking responsibility, and fostering growth in individuals and communities. True leadership is not just about authority; it’s about empowering others, embracing diversity, and creating positive change. It requires emotional intelligence, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose.
In what ways do you lead or make an impact outside of Local Guides Connect?
Being a Local Guide helped me discover that I am a unique leader 
because leadership is a journey of both impact and self-discovery. This has shaped my leadership skills, made me a tech enthusiast, and given me the confidence and courage to guide and inspire others. The best moments for me were when Connect Moderator Emeka gave me a chance to co-host the ONE ACCESSIBILITY Webinars, and interacting with different people around the world. It felt like a dream come true for me.
Now, it’s no longer about just contributing to level up and get perks; it’s about making a lasting impact on the community. I may do less, but it should leave a positive impact.
Thus, whenever I mention Local Guides to a newbie, I emphasize the importance of voluntary participation, authenticity, and quality over quantity. Be the change you want to see in the world. Embrace diversity and inclusivity to make the world a better place for all.
*The mindset didn’t stop at Local Guides—it has shaped my journey as an entrepreneur and marketer in the second-hand clothing industry. It even affects my personal life as a young Muslim woman. Whatever I engage in, wherever I go, I strive to leave a positive mark—helping others find purpose, love what they do, and find direction in their own paths. I am also able to strategically learn as I guide, master my emotions, and intelligently work with different people regardless of their status and race.
This is how I’m BECOMING. Ever since, I have loved helping and being a part of the worldwide community of Local Guides.*
What keeps you motivated to lead and contribute?
The feedback, impression, and the results from those I have guided keep me wanting to do more. Sometimes, you don’t get the feedback, but the peace of mind you get after doing an act of helping makes you contented because you intentionally did whatever you did, passionately. Above all, I put God first. Everything I do starts with BISMILLAH
Who inspires you the most, and why?
I have a number of people who inspire me, depending on the area of interest. All-round, I would say Ilhan Omar.
Ilhan Omar embodies resilience, leadership, and courage. As a hijabi Muslim woman in U.S. politics, she defies barriers, speaks boldly for justice, and stays true to her faith. Her journey—from a refugee to a congresswoman—inspires me to embrace my identity, challenge limits, and uplift others unapologetically.
In the Local Guides community, I might say Megan Coborn @Kwiksatik, Connect Moderator from the USA.
With her story of domestic violence and how Google Maps features helped her escape abuse, I think the post is on Connect. It taught me that, as women, we can’t keep being silent. We need to stand up and fight for our rights. If there are no seats for us at the table, we have to create our own tables and speak for ourselves in one voice.
How do you think we can inspire more women to be a part of our community?
Women often hesitate to take on new challenges because of time constraints, family responsibilities, or self-doubt. By sharing how we manage these aspects of our life while still contributing to Local Guides, we can show them that it’s possible.
Example:
I used to think I was too busy to contribute to something outside my job and family. But I realized that every place I visit, every meal I try, and every new experience I have can help others. Being a Local Guide is not about extra work—it’s about sharing what we already do!
Have you faced any challenges? How did you overcome them?
I’ve faced a lot of challenges, especially in my country:
- Safety Concerns
- Limited Time & Responsibilities
- Low Digital Awareness & Access
- Fear of Judgment & Confidence Issues
- Lack of a Strong Female Community of Volunteers
It takes me a long time before making any contribution because you don’t get quality content before putting it down into a post. You want authenticity and quality. You have to do research before trying to access authentic info for a place, rather than just taking pictures of dishes you’re having at your favourite restaurant. These are safety concerns.
But to help solve this, we must do something different to make the best out of it. That’s why:
- Promote safety – Contribute in safe, well-known areas and share experiences cautiously.
- Time management – Integrate Local Guides into daily routines like shopping or commuting.
- Education & awareness – Provide simple training on Google Maps contributions.
- Encourage confidence – Remind women that their insights are valuable and impactful.
- Build a support network – Create a women’s Local Guides group for mentorship and collaboration.
What barriers do you face to contribute in the community as a woman, and how do you overcome them?
Barriers: Safety risks, time constraints, low digital literacy, fear of judgment, lack of community.
Solution: I plan ahead, do research on the place I want to visit, and make sure I have permission from the management regarding what I intend to do there. And this has to come from a place of passionate involvement in Local Guides.
What message would you like to share with women around the world?
As women—mothers, wives, and professionals—we shape our communities every day. Being a Google Local Guide lets us amplify our voices, support businesses, and inspire others. All on our own terms!
Every review, photo, and recommendation we share makes an impact. Let’s break barriers, own our stories, and leave a mark. Your voice matters! Join me in making a difference, one contribution at a time.
#WomenInLocalGuides #EmpowerThroughMaps #BeTheChangeYouWantToSee
Thank you for all your contributions to accessibility and inclusion, a topic close to all of our hearts. We hope to see more women in Kenya be inspired by you and be a part of our thriving community 
.
, I found my second family.
