As I prepare to embark on my sixth VMware Explore adventure in Barcelona next week, I am filled with a mix of emotions – excitement, nerves, and gratitude. This year’s event holds special significance for me as I will be speaking on a community panel, sharing my personal journey and growth within the vExpert community.
I have been fortunate enough to attend every VMworld/Explore since 2015, with the exception of the two online events during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each year, I have walked away with new knowledge, experiences, and connections that have helped me grow both personally and professionally. However, this year is different – I am not just an attendee, but a speaker, and that brings a unique sense of responsibility and pride.
Corey Romero, a fellow vExpert and friend, put out a call for volunteers to join a community panel discussion. I submitted my application and was thrilled to be selected. This opportunity is the pinnacle of my vExpert career, and I am honored to be part of such an amazing group of speakers.
The community panel consists of five vExperts, including myself, who will share our experiences and how the community has impacted our lives. We will discuss how the vExpert program has helped us grow not only in our careers but also in our personal lives. Our session is scheduled to take place in the Community Area, and I encourage all of you to add it to your schedule.
As I reflect on my journey within the vExpert community, I am filled with gratitude. This community has given me so much – knowledge, support, friendship, and opportunities. It has helped me grow both professionally and personally, and for that, I am forever grateful.
I must admit, I am nervous about speaking in front of such a large audience. It will be my biggest public speaking event to date, but I am up for the challenge. I know that this experience will help me grow not only as a speaker but also as an individual.
In conclusion, I am excited to be part of VMware Explore 2023 in Barcelona. I am looking forward to seeing all of my vExpert friends and colleagues, meeting new people, and sharing my story. If you are attending the event, please come by the Community Area and join us for our panel discussion. Thank you to Corey and the vExpert team for this amazing opportunity. I cannot wait to see what this year’s Explore has in store for me!