MVP Milestone Series: Celebrating MVPs Achieving their 20+ Year Milestone

As we commemorate over 30 years of the Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVP) Program, we want to sincerely acknowledge the efforts of those who have achieved award milestones of 10, 15, 20+ years, and more. This journey wouldn't be possible without your support and dedication to community leadership – thank you!

This blog features MVPs who are achieving their 20-year and more milestone. Read on to find out what these MVPs have to say about their experience and time in the program.

What has motivated you to remain committed to the MVP program for the past 20+ years?

AI Hirano M365 MVP (Japan):” I tend to get bored easily, but I believe my curiosity for new things is exceptionally strong. My motivation comes from that very curiosity. Having focused on SharePoint for many years, I get excited every time a new feature or system is introduced. For me, understanding the newly introduced concepts while considering the product's history and the business trends at the time is like solving a fun puzzle. I enjoy this process and strive to clearly convey the excitement and appeal of it in my own words, hoping to resonate with many people.”

Diane Poremsky M365 MVP (US):” Helping regular users who don’t have an IT department to help them keeps me motivated. They need help and are limited to what they find online (some of which is questionable advice). I like troubleshooting problems and coming up with possible solutions for what they are trying to do. Being an MVP gives me access to product groups so I can report bugs when the users don't have a way to report it. Or when they do report it, to know if anyone is actually looking into the issue.”

Hao Hu AI Platform MVP (China):” Microsoft is the technological banner of our generation. From aspiring to be an MVP, to contributing to the community, and being proud to be an MVP, this program has allowed me to see another value in myself, recognition in the technology field and community, and most importantly, two things: connecting to talented people in different areas of the community and connecting to the product group of Microsoft's advanced solutions. It's an irreplaceable, high-value technical networking and a rare learning opportunity. That's why I've been working hard and hopefully staying at it.

Tomislav Bronzin M365/Business Application MVP (Croatia):” I am deeply passionate about sharing knowledge and experiences with the technology community, driven by the belief that my contributions make a meaningful difference. Over the past 20 years, I’ve witnessed the incredible impact of this community, from adapting to new technologies to supporting society during global challenges like pandemics and natural disasters. The MVP community’s ability to inspire change and drive digital transformation has been a source of pride and fulfillment. Along the way, I’ve not only grown professionally but also built lasting friendships, continuing to connect with amazing people every day.

What impact has the MVP community had on your personal and professional growth?

Toi Wright Developer Technology MVP (US):” The MVP program has inspired me as much as it has recognized my contributions to the technical community. Over 20 years, I’ve organized events, led user groups, spoken at conferences, founded organizations, authored courseware, and published books - all driven by a passion for sharing best practices and exploring groundbreaking developments. What motivates me is the opportunity to engage, learn, and give back, and the MVP program has amplified this impact, transforming my efforts into something far greater than I ever imagined.”

Heejin Lee M365 MVP (Korea):” For 20 years, my activities as a Microsoft MVP as a working mom have provided valuable experiences at home. It has been an excellent title to prove to my children that I am a Microsoft technology expert, not just a mom. They often express how proud and impressed they are with me being a Microsoft technology expert. Participating in Microsoft community activities and the Microsoft Global Summit together has been a wonderful opportunity that they perceive as a significant experience. Maintaining my MVP status for 20 years has allowed me to share meaningful experiences with my children, making it a significant part of my life.”

Kamil Sacek Business Application MVP (Czech):” The impact of being awarded as an MVP for the first time was life changing. As someone who had never traveled alone, never spoken English beyond school, and never been abroad, attending the MVP Summit in Seattle was a transformative experience. It showed me that "I can"- even if at times it was "I cannot yet" (like needing a friend's help to order breakfast at Starbucks!). Thanks to the MVP program, I've built lifelong friendships worldwide, gained confidence as a speaker, and discovered the courage to step out of my introverted comfort zone to connect and grow.”

Soumitra Sengupta Windows and Devices MVP (India):” The Microsoft MVP award has a profound impact on both personal growth and professional development. It offers access to a community of experts, continuous learning of the latest technologies, and invaluable connections with like-minded individuals and industry leaders. Being an MVP enhances credibility, opens doors to collaborative opportunities, and builds confidence through recognition and contributions. It’s a fulfilling journey of knowledge-sharing, community impact, and professional success.”

What advice would you give to new MVPs just starting their journey?

Diane Poremsky M365 MVP (US):“Never stop learning. Take advantage of the PGI events (and MVP benefits) to learn about other products. If you are asked about something you aren’t familiar with, don't be afraid to say you don't know… then take some time to learn about it.”

AI Hirano M365 MVP (Japan):” Congratulations on your achievement! My advice is to find a way to continue while enjoying the process. Enjoyment can come from pursuing technology or deepening your relationships within the community, but most importantly, it's about taking consistent steps forward.

Nicolas Blank Microsoft Azure/M365 MVP (Africa):” You hopefully became an MVP due to the passion for your subject as well as empowering people in some way. Hold on to your passion as much as you can, by regularly examining your WHY. WHY do you love what you do WHY do you want to share? The HOW may change over time, but your WHY should stay the same.”

Qinglin Zhou M365 MVP (China):” Engaging with the MVP community is a transformative journey. Don’t be shy—participate in events, connect with others, and embrace the wealth of learning resources Microsoft provides to accelerate your growth. Sharing what you learn, whether through blogs, videos, or social media, not only empowers others but also fuels your own growth. Building a strong network and fostering connections can lead to new inspiration and unexpected opportunities. Above all, remember to balance your passion with personal well-being and family time. The MVP community is more than a platform; it’s a source of motivation that drives both professional and personal growth.”

How do you balance your MVP activities with your professional & personal commitments?

Heejin Lee M365 MVP (Korea):” As a Microsoft MVP, I focus on professionalism, responsibility, and social contribution, leveraging my expertise to make a meaningful impact. I deeply value the support and respect my organization shows for MVPs, which motivates me to lead with humility and a collaborative spirit. By contributing to society through technology and teamwork, I strive to balance my professional responsibilities with personal growth. This role is not just about expertise but about creating value and making a difference.”

Toi Wright Developer Technology MVP (US):“ Balancing my responsibilities as an MVP with my professional commitments requires careful planning and consideration. Most of my MVP responsibilities are handled during evenings and weekends. For instance, I take PTO and cover my own expenses to attend the MVP Summit, but it is worth it.”

Jimy Cao Microsoft Azure/AI Platform MVP (Taiwan):” This is mutual, and the experience gained from both can be the nourishment for the growth of the other.

Hao Hu AI Platform MVP (China):” Personally, balancing MVP activities and careers is a difficult task: my work is not directly related to the MVP award field, but I really enjoy the challenge and am willing to spend more time and energy learning and sharing. Of course, the love of technology will still give me good feedback on my career and planning, and I believe it will bring me better career and development opportunities. Dedication to the community also gives me peace of mind and a better self-affirmation of my self-worth, both from the product group and from the community for the spirit of contribution.

Thank you, MVPs!

Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences, and congratulations once more on reaching this 20-year more milestone. If you are interested in becoming a Microsoft MVP, please visit our website to learn more.