When Erna first became a Local Guide she asked herself, "What is the best in me that I can show [the community]? I believe we, as Local Guides, can have a big impact on businesses, accessibility, parents, dog owners, kayakers/boaters, park visitors, foodies, etcetera."

Having a big impact is certainly one of Erna's biggest strengths as she's applied her passion for helping others, accessibility, and community to all that she does as a Local Guide. Building community on and off Connect since 2018, Erna doesn't allow the pandemic to stop her. After initially attending Local Guide meet-ups like a virtual karaoke group to find connection, she has hosted meet-ups focusing on topics like women's empowerment, Earth Day, and was recently named an Accessibility Champion, too. She also helped spread the word about Asian Pacific American Heritage Month on Connect, talking about her dancing in the Sanggar Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Indonesian Traditional Dance Group.

As she empowers those with mobility needs, women, and the local Indonesian community with her contributions, Erna betters not just her home state, but the world, in a way only an engaged local can.

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