I would really like to share with you what does the Local Guides program means to me.
I started my volunteer “career” in Google mapping services 12 years ago, in 2008. I began to improve the Maps, first in Uzbekistan, where I was born, then in other countries of Central Asia, then I began to help mappers in other countries, for example, the Faroe Islands, Canada, USA, Ukraine, and finally, in Russia where I live now. With the closure of the Map Maker project in 2017, some kind of vacuum is formed in my soul. And the Local Guides program was able to fill this vacuum. I’m glad to be still helpful. I not only improve Google Maps daily, but I also help many users to do it right, I help not to destroy Maps, follow the rules. As a result, to enjoy the fact that the product is up to date, local businesses and points of interest receive objective reviews and photos.
Also, when I attended the 2017 LG Summit, I was able to meet Local Guides from around the world. It was an unforgettable experience that I would love to repeat. I still have a lot of interesting things that I can share with others, and for sure, all participants have a lot of interesting things that they can share with me.
During my trip to the 2017 summit, I even got a unique opportunity - to meet with my half brother, whom I had not seen for about 30 years. He lives in California. This is unforgettable, and I am very grateful to Google for this unique opportunity.
I was not selected for summits in 2018 and 2019, but regardless of this, the project is still part of me, part of my life.
I hope to see old and new friends soon,
From Russia with love,
Sergey
