Power Platform Community Conference: MVPs, Community, Insights & Inspiration
At the Power Platform Community Conference (PPCC), Microsoft senior leaders, product engineers, and Microsoft MVPs from around the world came together to teach, demo, and answer hundreds of real‑world questions - showcasing how vibrant and hands‑on this community truly is. More than 35 MVPs took the stage across keynotes, breakouts, and the Community Theater - demonstrating the vibrancy, generosity, and hands-on spirit of this community. Why PPCC matters to our community Events like PPCC are where learning becomes momentum. MVPs don’t just present slides - they share production‑tested practices, spark new connections, and lift others up. This year’s conversations ranged from governance on a budget to app performance tuning and the accelerating role of AI‑powered copilots. The result? Attendees left with practical checklists, patterns to adopt on Monday, and a bigger network to call on when they’re stuck. MVP voices from the week MVP Lindsay Shelton presenting a session: From Zero to Governance: One Organization's Journey to Implementing Power Platform Governance At PPCC25, MVP Lindsay Shelton shared what draws her to this conference year after year—and how it continues to shape her work and community impact. “Some of it comes from this being the first big conference I ever attended, back in Orlando the first year, and the amazing time I had and the way it just expanded my horizons about what was possible so vastly. That was actually the message of one of the sessions I delivered this year - a case study about what happened when I came back from the first PP Conf and realized that I wanted to do all of the Power Platform things, but realized that by default, there was no governance in place, so how did I implement basic governance on a budget all by myself.” “Another reason is that I love sharing knowledge forward, and every person who takes the time to say thank you after a workshop or session or ask a question makes all the hard work worth it. Lastly, it's such an amazing group who put on the conference, and they are always a pleasure to work with, so it's my pleasure to submit to speak each year, hope for the best, and get to see so many friends, make new friends, and make new connections!” MVP Keith Atherton presenting his session Full Power! Power App Optimisation The future of Power Platform was a hot topic at PPCC25, and the main keynote didn’t disappoint. MVP Keith Atherton reflected on a pivotal moment when Charles Lamanna, President of Business & Industry Copilot at Microsoft, challenged the audience with a bold statement about the evolution of low-code. Keith shares how this announcement—and Microsoft’s investment in generative AI—signals a new era for makers and developers alike: “During the main keynote, Charles Lamanna, President, Business & Industry Copilot at Microsoft made a bold statement that "low-code (as we know it) is dead." While some may have found this shocking - especially when people are expecting a low-code themed conference - it showed how Microsoft is following current trends and investing in generative AI. The Power Platform utilises generative AI to build solutions in a variety of ways as well as provide the hugely popular Copilot Studio product which has the ability to create custom agents. Using features such as Plan Designer, Power Apps Generative Pages and Copilot Studio can accelerate development of solutions like never before, so the future looks bright!” When it comes to optimizing Power Apps, few are as passionate as Keith. We asked Keith what inspired him to return to PPCC as a speaker and what he hoped attendees would take away from his sessions. Here’s how he described his experience and the message behind Full Power! Power App Optimisation, “I was proud to return to PPCC25 as a speaker, this time with two main sessions as well as two sessions at the Community Theater! My main solo session, Full Power! Power App Optimisation, was about how user experience (UX) can make or break adoption of a solution, and a large part of that experience can be the performance of our apps. In my session, I demonstrated various ways to optimise Power Apps to get optimal performance to improve that experience. Hopefully, everyone left my session with knowledge on how to make our apps perform as fast as possible, happier customers, and less support tickets!” Nick Doelman presenting “Creating an App? Start with the Plan Designer, Build with Copilot!” MVP Nick Doelman shared what resonated with him about Olympic Gold Medalist Michael Phelps inspiring keynote on success, failure and mental health. “Microsoft Vice President Sangya Singh’s interview with Michael Phelps really resonated—his discipline, visualization, and adaptability translate directly into how we build. And yes, Plan Designer’s evolution is exciting. Big picture: AI is removing walls between makers and pro devs. Fusion teams can now work tighter and ship faster.” MVP Diego Domingos da Silva and MVP Cat Schneider share about their journey to the MVP Award. Connections were the heartbeat of PPCC - here’s how MVP Cat Schneider experienced it, “One of my favorite things about this conference is the sense of coming home and seeing family. Many of the people that I see at PPCC every year are those that are near and dear to my heart. I might not get but this one week every year to see some of my most favorite people on this planet, and my heart winds up overflowing in love for this community. And every year I leave with more friendships than I started with, whether it's new connections with Microsoft Product Teams, new community friends that I've adopted and introduced around to people they never dreamed of meeting, or finally connecting with other MVPs and community superstars that I've been aware of but just never had an opportunity to meet in person before. This conference is an absolute blessing and joy to attend, and I highly recommend it for anyone working in the Power Platform!” Curious what motivates MVPs to take the stage and share their expertise? Cat shared what inspired her to speak at PPCC, and what key messages she hoped to deliver to the community. Here’s what she said, “Community, first and foremost, and the power that comes from the ease of getting started with the Power Platform, are both the inspiration and key messages from my sessions. I had two community-based sessions and one technical session, but all of them were driven by fully embracing the community and those around you. One session was about being neurodiverse in this space, and letting AI help to unburden the mental workload that comes from having a neurodiverse brain. We talked about the AI tools and resources that have helped us and how they can be used by others. Another session was purely about finding your voice in this community and pushing boundaries to make space for yourself and others. That the journey is different for everyone; it's all about taking a few scary but small steps forward and embracing the uncomfortableness of it all. And the last session was an audience-led session on how easy it is to get started using the Plan Designer tool, that happened to focus on my wardrobe/costume choices for this conference. MVP Julie Yack and I took suggestions from the audience on what to prompt Plan Designer with, and continued to show the ease of use for building upon the plan with help from the associated agents. By the time we finished, we had a plan with users, data tables, apps, flows, and reports ready to start building out, all surrounding my costume closet.” MVP Dian Taylor and MVP David Warner running the Copilot Studio workshop: Recipes for Success: How to Prepare, Cook, and Serve Custom Agents For MVP Dian Taylor, one keynote crystallized the week’s energy - and the shift it signaled for makers. Here’s how Dian describes its impact, “For me personally, the most impactful session at the 2025 Power Platform Conference in Las Vegas was the keynote by Charles Lamanna. It seemed to hit differently this year. His message was clear: intelligence is now abundant, and low code as we know it is gone! I feel like we are stepping into a new era where curiosity fuels creativity, and our ideas have no limits. The lines between business apps are blurring, and the way people get work done is evolving fast. As makers, we’re no longer just building apps, we’re creating full systems that think, connect, and adapt. The speed of innovation right now is unreal, and this keynote perfectly captured that energy. It wasn’t just inspiring, I also believe it was a wake-up call to start thinking differently!” Looking ahead, AI and Copilot are reshaping how we build on the Power Platform - here’s how Dian sees it, “AI and Copilot is already reshaping how we build on the Power Platform today. The focus when building solutions is shifting from “How do I build this?” to “What do I want this to do?” This is a very different way of doing things as ideas can now flow straight from natural language into working solutions. I see Copilot becoming the maker’s right hand (wo)man, handling the repetitive stuff while we focus on logic, design, and experience. I think it's important to understand that this is not about replacing makers; it’s about amplifying them. I believe in the near future we'll start to see fewer boundaries between apps, data, and automation; everything will feel more connected, more intelligent, and more adaptive. Copilot and AI will help us to build systems that learn and evolve, not just apps that execute. Power Platform will become less about tools and more about co-creation with AI.” MVP Christine Flora and a giant Surface Pro, Copilot+ PC MVP Christine Flora connected with other professionals, community members and MVPs in the Community Lounge. She shared, “Working in the community lounge in the Ask-a-Pro area is always such a joy and so inspiring. I love hearing about all the different and diverse ways people and companies are using these tools to solve real world problems. It always energizes me. And if I can help them even a little bit to push that to the next level or get past a road blocker, even better.” Christine shared her thoughts on how she thinks AI and Copilot will influence Power Platform development going forward, “Over the last three years, I’ve really seen the genesis of how AI can not only help non-traditional business makers get into creating very robust solutions for their departments and organizations but how those tools have really evolved from the creating a simple app from literally a drawing on a napkin to full blown enterprise-ready apps.” Christine had great advice for those who were on the fence about attending the Power Platform Community Conference next year. “Try your best to get there next year! Also I would say try to get involved in your local Power Platform user group.” Keep the Momentum Going: Join the Power Platform Community and Grow Your Network If you couldn’t make it to this year’s Power Platform Community Conference, here’s the one thing you should know: the energy, learning, and connections don’t stop when the conference ends. MVP Christine Flora’s advice rings true - try your best to get there next year, but don’t wait to get involved! The Power Platform Community is always open, welcoming new members and helping everyone grow. By joining your local Power Platform user group, you’ll find answers to real-world challenges, discover practical tips you can use right away, and connect with a network of makers, MVPs, and passionate professionals who genuinely want to help each other succeed. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to push boundaries, there’s a place for you - and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your circle expands. So take that first step: visit the Power Platform Community, jump into the forums, check out upcoming events, and introduce yourself. You never know who you’ll meet or what inspiration you’ll find. The community is waiting to welcome you.Understanding the Microsoft MVP Program: Seeking Clear Guidance
Hello everyone, I’d like to start a discussion about the Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) Program. My main concern is understanding the process of becoming an MVP and the specific requirements involved. I know the program recognizes exceptional community leaders and experts who share their knowledge and support others, but the actual path to nomination and selection seems a bit unclear. Could anyone share clear guidance on the eligibility criteria, the nomination process, the types of contributions that are most valued, and practical tips to strengthen an application? Your insights and experiences would be highly valuable, not just to me but also to others in the community who may be interested in pursuing this recognition. Thank you so much for your attention and participation.People learn best when they feel welcome: The Story of Microsoft Security User Group Norway
Re-emerging and Reconnecting: How It All Began This is the third story in the User Group blog series. In 2022, as communities around the world slowly returned to in-person gatherings, many in the tech ecosystem were asking the same question: How do we create spaces where people genuinely want to reconnect? In Norway, where most security events were still held online, a small group of cybersecurity enthusiasts felt the absence of real conversation and shared learning. They decided to change that. The idea was simple: build a space where people could meet, learn, and exchange real experiences — face-to-face. The first Microsoft Security User Group Norway meetup launched in Oslo with over 120 signups. Local speakers shared real-world insights, discussions continued long past the final session, and the energy was unmistakable. “From that first meetup, it was clear — people were ready to be together again.” Microsoft MVP, Craig Forshaw, recalled the moment when a community began to take shape. A Community Built on Inclusivity and Shared Learning Today, the Microsoft Security User Group Norway “Organizers of the Microsoft Security User Group (from left to right), Anders Kristiansen, Haflidi Fridthjofsson, Sanna Diana Tomren, Craig Forshaw & Cody Burkhard” continues to host regular meetups in both physical and virtual formats. All sessions are delivered in English to welcome local professionals, international practitioners, students, and those completely new to security. What makes the group stand out is the atmosphere. Each event blends deep technical content with open conversation, ensuring that everyone — regardless of background — feels comfortable contributing. “People learn best when they feel welcome. Our priority has always been to create a space where everyone feels they belong.” Co-organizer, Anders Kristiansen says. A typical meetup might include expert speakers, live demos, interactive quizzes with community swag, and conversations that spill into hallways, sidewalks, and late-evening coffee shops. But the structure is secondary. The human connection is what keeps the community thriving. Sessions That Evolve With the Security Landscape No two meetups look the same — and that’s intentional. The group explores a wide range of topics, including blue and red teaming, Microsoft Sentinel operations, identity security, cloud and infrastructure protection, DevSecOps, and real-world threat detection. The organizers also host informal post-Build and post-Ignite discussions — opportunities to gather, reflect, and ask: What does this mean for us in practice? The organizing team reflects a diversity of backgrounds and experiences: Craig Forshaw, Microsoft MVP Anders Kristiansen, Microsoft MVP Sanna Diana Tomren, Microsoft MVP Haflidi Fridthjofsson, MVP Alumni now at Microsoft Cody Burkhard, bringing new perspectives to the team “Our different experiences are part of the strength of the group. We learn from each other as much as the community learns with us.” Another co-organizer and Microsoft MVP, Sanna Diana Tomren mentioned. More Than Events: A Platform for Growth and Opportunity Over time, the user group has become far more than a schedule of meetups. It has created opportunities for members — and organizers — to grow in unexpected ways. “This community has given many of us the confidence to speak publicly, share our work more openly, and step into new professional roles.” One of meetup attendees mentioned. Several members have delivered their first talks through the group. Some have gone on to publish technical content, collaborate with peers across industries, and even transition into new roles, including at Microsoft. For the organizers, this journey has also shaped leadership, communication skills, and professional direction. “When the work feels joyful and the community feels like home, you know you’re building something meaningful,” said Haflidi Fridthjofsson, a former MVP now a Microsoft employee. Looking Ahead: Expanding Connections Near and Far The next chapter focuses on collaboration and reach — partnering with other user groups across Norway and globally, welcoming new members, and continuing to create spaces where all voices are valued. The vision remains the same: “We want to continue building a community where people feel welcome, supported, and inspired to keep learning.” Thinking of Starting Your Own User Group? A few reflections from the journey so far: Start with Purpose: Let your motivation guide your event style, format, and outreach strategy. Whether your vision is small coffee shop gatherings or large-scale meetups, clarity helps build momentum. Be Patient and Consistent: Communities grow steadily, not instantly. Focus on creating relevant, well-structured sessions. And don’t be afraid to invite co-organizers—they bring new energy and help sustain the journey. Keep It Fun: When people are smiling, asking questions, networking, and yes—when the pizza arrives on time—community comes alive. Enjoy the process as much as the outcome. We’d also like to give a special thanks to Microsoft Norway for their continued support through venue hosting and sponsorship Stay tuned for the next story in the User Group blog series, where we’ll spotlight another inspiring MVP-led community and the unique ways they’re empowering others through connection and collaboration. If you missed the other posts, check out the stories below: TechNexus: A Best Practice in Building Passion-Driven Tech User Groups Powering Up People: Growing Tech Communities Through UK Dynamics 365 & Power Platform Groups Resources Meetup site: Microsoft Security User Group | Meetup LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/msug YouTube: Microsoft Security User Group - YouTube Call for speakers: Microsoft Security User Group 2025: Call for Speakers @ Sessionize.comPowering Up People: Growing Tech Communities Through UK Dynamics 365 & Power Platform Groups
This is the second story in the User Group blog series. In this blog we turn to the UK, home to one of the largest and most active Dynamics 365 and Power Platform communities, to explore how connection and collaboration power lasting growth. The UK Dynamics 365 and Power Platform User Groups began in the early 2000s when MVP Neil Benson recognized a need for Dynamics CRM users to connect and share experiences. What started as a small gathering has evolved into a national network of 11 user groups with over 9,000 members, guided by an advisory board chaired by MVPs Andrew Bibby and co-chaired by Areti Iles, supported by 24 volunteers—14 of them MVPs. The group hosts more than 30 free events each year, ranging from local evening meetups in Reading, Birmingham, Manchester, and Newcastle to national all-day events featuring Microsoft roadmap updates, workshops, and panel sessions. Each event offers a space for learning, networking, and mentoring across all skill levels—from new professionals to seasoned consultants. Areti’s own journey as the founder of the Reading User Group in 2023 reflects the heart of this community. Wanting to connect locally, she reached out to the UK UG leadership and soon gathered a small team, including MVPs and local professionals, to launch their first event. It wasn’t without challenges—from finding venues to coping with the 50% no-show rate common in free events—but as Areti notes, “Running a user group is not a one-person undertaking. It needs a community to get going and keep going.” The success of the UK User Groups lies not just in the number of events but in the sense of belonging they create. Every detail—from venue accessibility and event timing to speaker collaboration and post-event follow-ups—reflects a shared commitment to inclusion and growth. Areti highlights several practical lessons: Build your team early. Collaboration sustains momentum when challenges arise. Engage and appreciate speakers. Promote their sessions, share their stories, and celebrate their efforts. Keep communication personal. Send reminders, thank attendees, and make everyone feel seen. Make it fun. Add icebreakers, music, or games—community thrives on joy as much as learning. As Areti reminds us, “This is supposed to be fun. If it starts feeling like a second unpaid job, ask for help!” That spirit of openness and collaboration is what makes the UK Dynamics 365 and Power Platform User Groups a true model for community success. The UK Dynamics 365 and Power Platform User Groups prove that thriving tech communities are built through shared purpose and persistence. Whether you’re an experienced architect, an aspiring speaker, or a first-time attendee, your participation helps the community grow stronger. Join the movement, attend an event, or start your own user group. Visit www.d365ppug.com to get started. Stay tuned for the next story in the User Group blog series, where we’ll spotlight another inspiring MVP-led community and the unique ways they’re empowering others through connection and collaboration. If you missed the first post, check out TechNexus: A Best Practice in Building Passion-Driven Tech User Groups — a look at how a dynamic team in Asia created a model for collaboration and mentorship. Resources Website: d365ppug.com Events: Meetup – D365PPUG Speaker Form: Join as a SpeakerVS Code Dev Days: How Global MVPs and Communities Brought AI-Powered Coding to Life
The VS Code Dev Days series was a global celebration of AI, community, and learning. Designed to reintroduce developers to Visual Studio Code and GitHub Copilot, this pilot program brought together Microsoft MVPs (Most Valuable Professionals), Microsoft employees, GitHub Campus Ambassadors, and Student Ambassadors. Over two months, 92 events across 36 countries transformed Microsoft offices, universities, and community spaces into innovation hubs. What made this truly special was the collaboration — MVPs and local leaders working hand in hand with Microsoft teams to empower thousands of developers eager to explore the next era of coding. From Toronto to Buenos Aires, Islamabad to Bengaluru, VS Code Dev Days showcased the vibrant spirit of the global developer community. Each region added its own unique energy and creativity. In Toronto, Canada, there were two VS Code Dev Days events by MVP Jack Lee who is leading North Toronto Cloud & DevOps User Group and another MVP Ehsan Eskandari who is leading the Metro Toronto Azure Community and celebrated the power of community-led innovation, “Hosting at Microsoft Canada HQ was incredible. Working closely with the Microsoft team made everything smooth — from logistics to content. The interest in VS Code and Copilot was stronger than ever” said Ehsan Eskandari. & DevOps User Group & DevOps User Group In Bengaluru, India, MVP Mohammed Azarudeen and the TechNexus community hosted over 300 developers at Microsoft’s Bellandur office. “It was a hit! The energy was unlimited,” Azarudeen shared. “Having Microsoft’s venue, content support, and FTE partners like Prasanna Nagarajan made the event seamless. Developers were thrilled about Copilot workflows and MCP integration — so many ‘aha!’ moments” continued Azarudeen. In Buenos Aires, Argentina, MVP Pablo Piovano described the day at the University of Buenos Aires as “a space for knowledge, collaboration, and networking that strengthens and empowers the local tech ecosystem.” ru, India In Islamabad, Pakistan, MVP Hamza Khattak led the city’s biggest developer event of the year. “We had 300+ registrations and 111 attendees — all passionate about AI and Copilot,” he reflected. “Microsoft’s support with content, logistics, and visibility made it feel like a true partnership. Seeing students and professionals code together was inspiring” Khattak continued. In Makati, Philippines, MVP Ziggy Zulueta also led inspiring event with more than 100 attendees. Zulueta said, “We not only demonstrated the basic features of the two platforms, Visual Studio Code and GitHub Copilot, but we also had a hackathon for the participants to test out advanced features of autonomous AI development. The energy and attendance inspire me to hold more events.” Across dozens of cities, organizers echoed the same sentiment — MVPs and Microsoft came together to create great events. Impact and Insights Thousands of developers attended in-person and virtual events with feedback indicating that the majority of participants plan to continue using VS Code with GitHub Copilot, citing its intuitive interface, AI-powered productivity, and integration capabilities. MVPs and local organizers highlighted how Microsoft’s regional support — from providing venues and SWAG to content mentorship — elevated the experience. “Access to Microsoft offices gave our communities credibility and excitement,” said MVP Ehsan Eskandari from Toronto. “Having direct connections with local FTEs created lasting bridges between Microsoft and grassroots communities.” These events also reinforced how global developers are at different stages in adopting AI-assisted coding. Some were using Copilot daily; others were encountering it for the first time. Yet all left inspired and equipped to use AI in their workflows. Ultimately, VS Code Dev Days proved what happens when Microsoft and its MVPs co-create experiences — a ripple effect of learning, curiosity, and empowerment. Call to Action VS Code Dev Days wasn’t just an event series — it was an endeavor of collaboration. Together, Microsoft teams, MVPs, and local user groups helped thousands of developers take their first steps into AI-assisted development. Now, the journey continues with the Microsoft AI Tour — a global event where developers and organizations can explore Microsoft’s latest AI tools, Copilot innovations, and real-world applications. Join us to connect with experts, experience hands-on learning, and see how AI can transform your coding journey. The future of development starts here. Resources Learn more about the MVP Program follow us on MVP Program Website and LinkedIn
From ASP.NET to Angular: My MVP Story - Sonu Kapoor
By Guest Blogger Sonu Kapoor Early Contributions and Community Building Nearly two decades ago, my curiosity about ASP.NET sparked something bigger than just learning a framework. I started writing technical articles, not just to document what I was learning, but because I wanted to make the path smoother for developers coming after me. To my surprise, some of those articles became the most-read in their categories. That success pushed me to take a bigger leap. I founded DotNetSlackers, one of the earliest community hubs for .NET, built in ASP.NET 1.0 with MS SQL Server as the backend and dozens of SSIS packages to automate SQL jobs. The site ultimately reached more than 33 million views and hosted contributions from over 100 authors. For many developers, it became their first doorway into ASP.NET and modern web practices. I eventually retired the platform after more than a decade of activity, and I am no longer affiliated with the domain that exists today, but its legacy remains part of the shared history of the .NET community. This commitment to community earned me recognition as a Microsoft MVP for ASP.NET in 2005, a distinction I proudly held for several consecutive years. More than the award itself, it symbolized that my contributions were making a global impact through mentorship, writing, and building spaces where developers could thrive. Growing Through Enterprise Experience As my career advanced, I carried that same mindset into the enterprise world. At Citigroup, Cisco, Sony, and American Apparel, I wasn’t just building systems; I was solving problems that impacted thousands of users and billions of dollars in transactions. From global trading platforms for bonds and swaps to RFID-enabled enterprise retail systems, my “why” was about reliability and trust: creating mission-critical software people could depend on just as developers depended on the knowledge I shared through community work. Coming Full Circle In 2024, more than a decade after my first MVP, I was re-awarded the MVP in Developer Technologies this time for my work with Angular and AI-powered applications. By then, my “why” had expanded. It wasn’t just about teaching anymore; it was about shaping the tools themselves. I helped co-author Angular’s Typed Forms (the most upvoted feature request in Angular history), authored multiple books, including AI-Powered App Development, Beginning JavaScript Syntax, and Practical Angular Signals. I have also joined the ranks of both Google Developer Experts (GDE) and the exclusive Angular Collaborators program (one of only 11 worldwide). Besides that, I became the core maintainer of ngx-layout, an open-source Angular library that now receives over 25,000 weekly downloads, helping developers across the globe structure applications more effectively. Why keep pushing forward? Because the ecosystem is bigger than any one of us. If I can influence a framework used by millions, or an open-source project relied on by tens of thousands each week, I can multiply my impact in ways I never imagined back when I was writing my first ASP.NET articles. A Legacy of Mentorship and Innovation Today, I continue to balance writing, mentoring, and enterprise engineering while also speaking at international conferences to share what I’ve learned with the wider community. I’ve seen firsthand that a single article, a single community, or a single open-source feature can change the course of someone’s career. My journey from creating DotNetSlackers to contributing to Angular is not just about recognition. It’s about building a culture of sharing, mentorship, and innovation that will outlast me. The MVP award has been an incredible honour, but I’ve always seen it as a milestone in a much larger journey of lifting others and shaping the future of technology. Want to join Sonu and others to make a difference? Nominate someone, share your journey, or encourage the next generation of innovators to join the MVP community. Learn more about the MVP Program on the MVP Communities site. Follow us on social media on X and LinkedIn.TechNexus: A Best Practice in Building Passion-Driven Tech User Group
This blog is part of a new Microsoft MVP-led Tech User Group Series highlighting the best practices of user groups worldwide. Across regions, user groups are inspiring people, building careers, and shaping the future of technology. Each story we share will spotlight leaders and communities who are proving that passion, collaboration, and inclusivity can change lives. To begin, we are proud to feature TechNexus Community from India—a movement that has reached over 10,000 people through 15 in-person tech events in just six months, and one that continues to set the bar for community-driven impact. The Story of TechNexus Technology is never just about tools; it’s about people who come together to share, learn, and grow. Over the last six months, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing how a single idea—creating a space for authentic learning—turned into something far greater. The TechNexus Community, founded by Microsoft MVPs Vinodh Kumar and Mohammed Azarudeen, began with the vision of bringing people together. Today, it has become one of the most inspiring examples of what user groups can achieve: impact, belonging, and empowerment. TechNexus was founded by Microsoft MVPs Vinodh Kumar and Mohamed Azarudeen, united by a shared belief: knowledge should be shared freely, and impact should come before everything else. With backgrounds in Data & AI, they envisioned something more than meetups. They imagined a platform where professionals, students, and leaders could connect authentically, collaborate openly, and grow together. That vision quickly became reality. In only half a year, TechNexus has hosted 15 in-person events and delivered 64 technical sessions, powered by an incredible line-up of 64 speakers—including 32 MVPs, Microsoft employees, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and technologists. Each speaker brought their unique perspective, turning every session into more than just a talk. They became shared experiences that left participants inspired and empowered. Yet what sets TechNexus apart isn’t scale—it’s authenticity. The community runs on passion alone: no ticket sales, no agencies, no commercial agendas. Every event is organized and supported entirely by volunteers. That often means late nights, personal contributions, and countless hours of planning. But it also means something deeper: a sense of ownership and belonging that can’t be manufactured. This authenticity is why people trust TechNexus. It is why attendees return, why volunteers commit, and why the movement continues to grow stronger month after month. The Impact in Numbers—and Beyond In six months, TechNexus reached over 10,000 people. But the true measure of impact lies not in numbers, but in stories: 💬 “At first, I honestly wasn’t sure how a one-day event could change anything. I came in feeling like a loser with no job and no direction. But I met wonderful people here—techies who were open, supportive, and encouraging. Slowly, my confidence grew. Finally, I landed a good job after months of struggle. For me, that event wasn’t just a day—it was the turning point where I found hope, friends, and a future.” — Aravindh 💬 "From day one I felt included and encouraged to join discussions. Volunteering gave me a chance to give back, and what I love most is how people here share ideas and encourage each other. I’m glad to be part of TechNexus and look forward to contributing and growing with the community." — Lekhashree Y C 💬 "Having recently presented at a TechNexus conference, I was thoroughly impressed by their promptness and professionalism. This community bridges seasoned professionals and emerging talent beautifully. Their events are well-organized, inclusive, and vibrant—a model for others." — Prasanna V Nagarajan 💬 “Becoming a volunteer opened my eyes to the tech world. I’m an introvert, but this community is helping me speak up and grow into a better version of myself. For that, I’m truly thankful.” — Adithi These stories reflect the true success of TechNexus: transforming lives through learning, belonging, and collaboration. What Makes TechNexus a Best Practice Several elements make TechNexus stand out as a best practice for global user groups: Authenticity: Entirely community-driven with no commercial agenda. Inclusivity: Creating space for students, professionals, women, and volunteers alike. Collaboration: MVPs, Microsoft employees, and industry leaders working side by side. Impact-first mindset: Focus on transformation, not transactions. For Microsoft, communities like TechNexus represent the future of learning. They demonstrate that when people come together with passion, consistency, and a shared purpose, even the biggest challenges can be overcome. Call to Action The journey of TechNexus has only just begun. Over the next six months, the community plans to scale further—welcoming more voices, more collaborations, and more opportunities to grow together. For those inspired by this story, there are ways to get involved right now. Visual Studio Dev Days offers opportunities across the globe to join local user group events, explore the power of Visual Studio Code and GitHub Copilot, and connect with communities near you. It’s a great way to take the first step into authentic, in-person learning experiences. And if you’re based in India, you can follow the TechNexus Community and participate in the Skill-Up India program, designed to help students and professionals grow their skills in Azure and AI run by TechNexus. Because at TechNexus—and in every great community—the message is clear: together, we rise. Resources TechNexus Community LinkedIn TechNexus Community | Meetup Skill-Up India Program Visual Studio Dev Days Developer Communities | Microsoft DeveloperKCDC: Where Global Voices Drive Local Innovation
At the heart of the Kansas City Developer Conference (KCDC) is a vibrant, inclusive community—one that empowers developers from around the world to connect, collaborate, and innovate. This year, Microsoft MVPs brought their expertise and passion to the event, uplifting others and sparking curiosity across every session. We caught up with a few of them, to hear their reflections on the experience and what makes KCDC such a standout event in the developer world. MVP Dennie Declercq: Hospitality That Fuels Innovation How far would you go for a great developer conference? For MVP Dennie Declercq, the answer is over 4,500 miles (7,000+ km) —crossing continents and time zones from Belgium all the way to Kansas City, Missouri! Dennie’s journey to KCDC wasn’t just about the miles; it was about the magnetic pull of a truly special event. He shared, “KCDC has an incredibly welcoming vibe for speakers. They celebrate their Kansas City roots with legendary BBQ and unique speaker shirts, but what really sets them apart is how they treat their speakers. KCDC challenges the status quo—offering professional photo shoots that speakers can use for personal branding and their professional lives. It’s a level of hospitality and appreciation you don’t find everywhere.” Louella Creemers at KCDC MVP Louella Creemers: Belief That Crosses Borders Sometimes, the most important journeys aren’t measured in miles—they’re measured in encouragement and support. For MVP Louella Creemers, her path from the Netherlands to the Kansas City Developer Conference began long before she ever booked a flight. Lou’s KCDC story started in 2021 when she began sharing online her aspirations to speak and run workshops. The KCDC organizers saw her potential and reached out with a simple message: “You should totally come to KCDC and give a talk.” That early support made Louella feel part of the community, even when she was still studying and unable to travel. “I flew 7,000+ km to KCDC because it’s the conference that believed in me before I’d ever set foot on a stage.” Louella recalls. In 2025, with a job that supports her passion for sharing knowledge, she finally fulfilled that promise—bringing her unique perspective to sessions on topics like inclusive design and cross-platform development. Stepping into the Kansas City developer community was an eye-opening experience for Louella. Coming from the Netherlands, where the tech scene is close-knit and meetups are limited by geography, she was struck by the sheer scale and variety on display at KCDC. Lou shared, “At KCDC I noticed a totally different scale. In the sponsor hall I passed the community booths and saw a full page with names of developer meetups in Kansas City. The number and variety left my mind blown. Talking to these developer group organizers made me realize how much density matters: when you have that many groups in one region, you get more cross-pollination, more chances to learn, and more choices for new people.” Photo: MVP Samuel Gomez at KCDC MVP Samuel Gomez: The Power of New Connections For MVP Samuel Gomez, KCDC stands out for its commitment to welcoming newcomers and fostering meaningful connections. During the opening ceremony, organizers encouraged attendees to reach out and talk to someone they didn’t know—a simple piece of advice that Samuel finds truly transformative. “I love that advice because you never know how meeting someone at an event can change your life—I know mine has!” Samuel’s experience is a testament to the power of community-driven events like KCDC, where a single conversation can spark new opportunities, collaborations, and lifelong friendships. By creating an environment where everyone feels encouraged to connect, KCDC continues to empower developers at every stage of their journey. MVP Ben Dechrai: Curiosity and Collaboration in Action For MVP Ben Dechrai, speaking at KCDC isn’t just another stop on the conference circuit—it’s a return to a place where curiosity and connection thrive. For him, returning to Kansas City each year means rejoining a community where curiosity is celebrated and meaningful connections thrive. “I keep coming back to KCDC because of the audience - they're what make this conference truly special. The rooms are packed with people who come with incredible questions and a real hunger for learning. It's not just polite Q&A; these attendees are genuinely there to absorb as much as they can, and they'll approach you afterward to continue the conversation, ask follow-up questions, or just thank you for sharing your knowledge.” Ben continued, what really sets KCDC apart from other conferences I've spoken at is this combination of deep engagement and Midwestern hospitality. Many of the 1,800 attendees are locals, and that welcoming spirit is palpable throughout the event. While audiences around the world are always welcoming, there's something special about KCDC's community that reminds me of my own hunger for knowledge when I first started attending conferences.” That same spirit extends to speakers, too. From the first outreach to on-site logistics, the organizers go above and beyond to make presenters feel appreciated and supported—one of many reasons KCDC stands out in the global developer community. The Heart of KCDC: Community, Curiosity, and Collaboration From insightful talks to behind-the-scenes planning, MVPs helped shape KCDC into a vibrant and impactful experience for attendees. Their dedication to the developer community shines through in every session, hallway conversation, and late-night planning meeting. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or a first-time attendee, their stories offer a glimpse into the heart of what makes KCDC—and the MVP community—so special. How has a community or conference empowered you in your technical journey? Share your story and join the conversation—because innovation starts with people who believe in each other. Learn more about KCDC and how you can get involved. #MVPBuzzBuilding Connections and Fostering Growth: Highlights from the MVP Networking & Mentorship Event
A Community United by Collaboration and Growth The MVP Networking & Mentorship Event brought together technology enthusiasts and experts from diverse backgrounds to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build valuable connections. This event highlighted how collaboration across roles and regions can spark innovation and personal development. The core message was clear: strong relationships are the foundation of growth and career success. This reflects the spirit of the MVP community - supporting each other and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible through teamwork. Keynote Insights: The Power of Networking MVP and RD Dux Raymond Sy kicked off the event with a keynote titled “The Power of Networking – Making the Most of Your Connections.” One eye-opening fact shared was that 85% of jobs are filled through networking. This underscores the importance of cultivating authentic relationships, rather than just collecting contacts, to open doors and create opportunities. Interactive Breakout Sessions: Learning from Experience Attendees participated in breakout sessions on topics such as building your personal and community brand, organizing successful events, creating impactful technical content, and becoming a great public speaker. These sessions encouraged lively discussions and practical advice, with stories from participants illustrating how mentorship and networking have helped them grow, from advancing into leadership roles to gaining confidence and discovering career-changing opportunities. The Power of Mentorship and Community Mentorship emerged as a powerful theme, showing how guidance and support can boost visibility and accelerate career paths. The event concluded with a group discussion where attendees shared their key takeaways and celebrated the strength of community connections. A big thank you to all the facilitators and participants for making this event an inspiring success! Top Networking Tips for Building Meaningful Connections Whether you’re new to networking or looking to deepen your relationships, here are some tips inspired by the event: Focus on Building Relationships, Not Just Contacts Aim for genuine interactions that benefit both sides. True connections often lead to unexpected opportunities. Follow Up Promptly Reach out within a day or two after meeting someone to show appreciation and keep the conversation going. Be Authentic and Open People connect with authenticity. Be yourself, listen actively, and engage sincerely to build trust. Give Before You Get Share your knowledge and help others without expecting immediate rewards. Generosity builds goodwill and lasting bonds. Think Long-Term Networking is about nurturing relationships over time, not just quick gains. Consistent engagement creates a supportive network. Ask Open-Ended Questions Encourage meaningful dialogue by asking questions that invite stories and insights, making your conversations memorable. Continuing the Journey Together The strength of our community lies in the connections we build and the support we offer each other. This is the first of many mentoring activities we’ll be offering to the MVP community so be sure to check back here as we share more stories. Have a story about how networking or mentorship shaped your career? Share it in the comments or tag us! Interested in becoming part of the MVP community? Learn more about the MVP Program on the MVP Communities site. Follow us on social media on X and LinkedIn.
