Shola is very experienced with Google Maps, and has hosted several educational meet-ups that have helped build relationships within the wider Local Guides community on Local Guides Connect. From Shola's hometown of Lagos, Nigeria, you can see their passion for uplifting their community — contributing reviews that include helpful information on hospitals, restaurants, and small businesses.

What is your favorite place, experience, photo or video you contributed to Google Maps this year?
I have so many places I have contributed to, but the photos I posted of Cold Stone Creamery are some of my favorites.

My review of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital was featured on the hospital listing. I had a great experience talking to them about the Local Guides program and Google Maps.

What advice do you have for other Local Guides?
As Local Guides and Google Maps users, we benefit so much from the maps, so it makes sense to give back to benefit others. Keep active everyday and provide quality contributions. Keeping active on Connect also helps you stay active on Maps. We learn so much on Connect, getting first hand information from other Local Guides.

What do you like most about the Local Guides community?
Connect is not just a social media platform, it is a knowledge sharing platform where we can teach and learn. I love the international community and the interactions with other Local Guide and moderators. I have learned so much about communication and even improved my IT skills, photography, etc.

What makes a place or experience worth rating/reviewing?
The first thing I always notice is the ambience and reception of a point of interest. The second thing would be the service and overall experience. I always like to share these with others on the maps to help them make informed decisions.

What is your favorite feature of Google Maps?
Adding and editing of points of interest.

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