Hello Local Guides,
Today I am excited to shine the She Leads spotlight on @NyaiNurjanah, a dedicated factory worker and passionate explorer from Sukabumi, Indonesia. Nyai balances her full-time job in the industrial sector with an adventurous spirit and a deep love for discovering new places often on two wheels.
In her free time, Nyai enjoys riding her motorcycle through the winding roads of West Java, chasing sunsets, visiting serene natural spots, and uncovering local treasures. From hidden waterfalls and roadside warungs to panoramic rice fields and mountain views, Nyai uses her journeys as an opportunity to contribute helpful reviews, photos, and insights to Google Maps.
When and how did you become a Local Guide?
I think it was around 2016 when I first became a Local Guide. Honestly, it all started because the memory on my phone was almost full! 
I began uploading photos to Google Maps just to free up space but then I realized people were actually seeing them and finding them helpful. That simple habit turned into a passion.
What inspires you to contribute to Local Guides Connect?
I love connecting with fellow Local Guides. Being part of this community makes me feel like I’m not alone in this journey. It’s inspiring to see how people from around the world share their local knowledge, stories, and tips. It motivates me to keep contributing.
What is your favourite type of contribution? Why?
I enjoy writing reviews and uploading photos the most because they help people understand a place better and decide if it’s worth visiting.
How do you define leadership, and what does it mean to you?
To me, leadership is harmony in difference bringing people together despite their unique backgrounds and ideas, and working as one team to make positive change.
What keeps you motivated to lead and contribute?
There are still many places unlisted or missing information on maps, so I feel it’s important to help update and improve the information for everyone
Who inspires you the most, and why?
I am inspired by people who get lost on maps because they remind me how valuable accurate information is, and they motivate me to fix and improve map data.
How do you think we can inspire more women to be a part of our community?
I believe we can inspire more women by showing that their voices and experiences matter. When women see other women confidently sharing their stories, exploring new places, and leading with kindness, it encourages them to join too. Creating a supportive, safe space where everyone feels welcome and respected is key. Also, sharing success stories and celebrating women’s contributions can help build confidence and inspire more to get involved.
Have you faced any challenges? How did you overcome them?
Yes! Sometimes my phone runs out of battery, or I have no internet data, and sometimes I feel lazy to contribute, haha. But I save all the information in my head and contribute later when I can.
What barriers do you face to contribute in community as a woman and how do you overcome them?
Sometimes, as a woman, I face challenges like balancing work, family, and my time to contribute. There can also be moments when people underestimate or doubt women’s involvement in tech or mapping communities. But I overcome these by staying confident in my passion and reminding myself that my contributions matter.
What message would you like to share with women around the world?
You are stronger than you think.
Nyai Nurjanah’s journey as a Local Guide reminds us that passion, curiosity, and dedication can turn everyday moments into meaningful contributions. Whether on her motorcycle exploring the beautiful roads of West Java or carefully adding details to Google Maps, Nyai shows that leadership comes from the heart and the courage to share your story.
SDG 5: Gender Equality – Nyai is a role model for women everywhere, proving that leadership and tech engagement have no gender boundaries.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – Her updates on hidden gems and local treasures make Google Maps a more inclusive and accessible tool for all.
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Through digital mapping and detailed reviews, she enhances infrastructure knowledge and promotes local tourism.
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Her global engagement on Connect reminds us how community contributions power collective progress.
