What does the local guides program mean to me?
The word “Guide” reminds me of the legendary Bollywood classic of the same name, starring Devanand and Waheeda Rehman, which depicts the charming influence of the hero-travel-guide on the affections of a young lady tourist. From reel to real life, a guide is an essential asset to his community. He makes the world known of the distinct qualities of the area with his wit and eloquence.
I trust the local guide program also evolved in the same spirit to educate and instruct people about their own locality. It facilitates exchange of information between a community and the world at large and forms an archive, optimizing benefits for both ends. The essence of a local guide lies in his ability to be a real friend in need and also in deed. It is not enough to just disseminate facts, but also act as a philosopher and guide to the culture and ethos of the place. It provides an authentic pathway for a stranger.
Google has started this journey by creating a digital map through geolocation technology with the ultimate objective to connect people and places worldwide. The Local guide program adds a human touch to Google Maps by creating a social engagement platform, motivated to add value everyday by adding new places, reviews and photos. It also provides verified information and relevant insights about accessibility, timings, etc.
My inherent instinct to socialize comes from my association with the children’s organization Sab Payechir Asar as a central instructor. During my active service period, I visited more than 200 branches across the country on official duties which helped me explore the entire nation. Travelling is my passion and I have already visited all the 28 states in my country and have started visiting overseas destinations as well (ten and counting). In my personal life my engagement with various NGOs and socio-cultural organizations helps me in knowing more and more people and newer places in detail. Of late, with my association with the teaching profession, I have had the opportunity to meet various batches of Chartered Accountants across the country while parting with my knowledge of Information Systems Audit.
The traveler mind inside me has helped me a lot in achieving my goals and has slowly attracted me to the Local Guide program. I may not be an expert photographer, but my photography skill certainly gets a boost when I publish my photos and share them through this medium. With the help of Global Connect I am confident that I will be able to make friends across the globe and benefit from the power of unity in diversity. In Sanskrit it is called “Vasudhaibo kutumbokam”. Due to our collective willingness to give back to our communities and the singular vision of improving the quality of experiences on Google Maps through friendly competition, this global congregation is sure to have a resounding effect on affairs.
Google Maps helps people advance in their lives. It optimizes the use of travel time by providing alternate and viable routes to avoid terrible traffic. Local Guide adds value to this objective by sharing live information and making everybody’s life easier. Targeted interaction with such friends will make this program more effective and with this goal in mind I want to take part in Connect Live 2020 this year. I am surely the missing link there. I may not be a celebrity but connecting with so many friends will help in spreading our moto effectively. I am proud to be a local guide.