For Kamal, the use of Google Maps during the past year was a means of assisting his community during a time of crisis. As the pandemic spread, he saw firsthand its devastating effects on the local population, from the closure of small businesses to severe oxygen shortages that endangered the lives of residents.

As a small business owner himself who struggled during the pandemic, Kamal had an inside perspective on the challenges other businesses were facing. "I realized how difficult it was to lose business and the small businesses around me had to spend the day in the same situation," he said. He set about adding businesses to Google Maps, organizing meet-ups to benefit small businesses, and taking photos of storefronts to feature online. He maintains a clear sense of the purpose of his work: "I hope that when the consumer searches on Google Maps according to his needs and finds these stores, it will increase the sales of these stores."

Kamal's contributions have had a positive impact on his community. He says that local business owners "appreciated" his efforts as they resumed sales. His experience with Google Maps inspired others to ask him how to use the service, and he became an informal advisor to those seeking to learn more about digital mapping.

Still the present moment remains uncertain. Many people in Kamal's city have lost their jobs or been laid off. His own stationery business is on hold due to school closures and other challenges of COVID-19. Despite this, he keeps the positive attitude that comes from thinking of others first. "Many people have appreciated and applauded my activities," he said, adding humbly, "I'm glad to be able to help them a little bit, that's why I always want to stand by them."

Want to learn more about this incredible Local Guide? Check out his contributions on Google Maps and follow his profile on Connect.