Things I learned as a member of the Microsoft Community
For over 15 years at Microsoft my passion focused on amplifying the voices of our product users. No matter if it was via our EAP (early adopter programs), MVPs, Tech Community members, STEP, MODE, IT, it did not matter because their voices equally and importantly reflected every user. I am still part of the Microsoft Community. I speak onsite at events, participate in online conferences, and post to different tech communities - like this one. That may seem like a lot of time to dedicate to helping others so let me tell you what you get in return. Here are four important things I have learned along the way.Microsoft 365 Champions community call (August 2024): Testing the new broadcast platform
Join us in switching to YouTube live-streaming on the Microsoft Tech Community as the new official platform for all monthly *Microsoft 365 Champions* calls! Your host, TiffanyLee, is joined by guests JoshLeporati and Heather Newman with our moderator, JessieHwang to share more about how we are adjusting on the platform side of things going forward. Each call includes a live Q&A, where you'll have a chance to ask your questions about Microsoft 365. You can ask questions and provide feedback in the event Comments below and we'll do our best to address what we can during the call. Join the Microsoft 365 Champion program today! Champions combine technical acumen with people skills to drive meaningful change. Join now at https://aka.ms/M365ChampionsMondays at Microsoft | Episode 27
Get ready for the week with "Mondays at Microsoft". Karuana Gatimu & Heather Cook will update you on what's going on at Microsoft - from product releases to Community and event news, and more. Show notes & links to all that was shared throughout the above episode: Microsoft Research AI for Science: Aurora can predict weather patterns and pollution more quickly: https://aka.ms/AuroraAI As part of a responsible AI approach, AI models are protected by layers of defense mechanisms to prevent the production of harmful content or being used to carry out instructions that go against the intended purpose of the AI integrated application: https://aka.ms/ThreatIntelligenceResearch In The Thread of Memory, an immersive exhibit in France and online, we can see and understand what D-Day was like for the people who experienced it: https://aka.ms/ThreadOfMemory Happy Pride Month - At Microsoft, we believe different perspectives lead to a brighter future. Discover stories of innovation and inspiration from Microsoft employees: https://aka.ms/InclusionIsInnovation As we continue this foray into the Age of AI and Copilots, it’s important to invest in security. More how Microsoft Fabric weaves in security: https://aka.ms/TrustFabricStages Microsoft has been carbon neutral in its operations since 2012 and we are still on track to power 100% of our operations with carbon-free energy by 2030 at the same time cutting 75% of all carbon emissions: https://aka.ms/RenewableEnergy We are thrilled to announce the release of our latest white paper, “Develop a tenant environment strategy to adopt Power Platform at scale”: https://aka.ms/PowerPlatform/EnvironmentStrategy We are pleased to announce that you can now ask Copilot for data from your entire semantic model: https://aka.ms/Copilot/SemanticModelQuestions Microsoft Dynamics 365 Contact Center, a Copilot-first contact center solution that delivers generative AI to every customer engagement channel – a standalone Contact Center as a Service (CCaaS) solution: https://aka.ms/Dynamics365ContactCenter Visit and share the *Community News Desk*: https://aka.ms/CommunityNewsDesk Learn more about the Microsoft Global Community Initiative (MGCI): https://aka.ms/MGCI + we launched a new page listing our newly minted regional directors. https://aka.ms/MGCIAdvisors As part of our Microsoft Global Community Initiative, we invite you to join us for our monthly General Meeting on the third Tuesday of the month - June 18. Sign Up to join us for our monthly meeting at https://aka.ms/MGCISignUp Find your next in-person or online event: https://CommunityDays.org Until next episode, have great times with your community, @Karuana Gatimu and @Heather Newman
LIVE from ESPC 2025 - Microsoft 365 & AI Conference | Mondays at Microsoft (Episode 63)
Join Karuana Gatimu and Heather Cook, LIVE from ESPC 2025 - Microsoft 365 & AI Conference in Dublin as they take you through the latest in AI news, Microsoft 365 product updates, and community news & events. 🎥 Episode 63 of "Mondays at Microsoft" goes live on Monday, December 1st at 8:00 AM PT! #MondaysAtMicrosoft #ESPC2025 #MicrosoftEventsMondays at Microsoft | Episode 46
NOW ON DEMAND Get ready for the week with "Mondays at Microsoft." Karuana Gatimu and Heather Cook will update you on what's going on, across BIG news, product releases, Community and event news, and more. Aired LIVE | Monday, April 7th, 2025. ☕ Show notes and links to all that was shared and discussed during this episode: Microsoft celebrated its 50th Anniversary on Friday April 4th. To celebrate that community, we invite you to join us tomorrow, April 8th, on the Microsoft Tech Community tomorrow as we look back and celebrate five decades of innovation, community, and collaboration: https://aka.ms/Community/NewsDesk AI Skills Fest: https://aka.ms/AISkillsFest. Microsoft 365 Community Conference: Register now, save $150 with code SAVE150 🎟️ https://aka.ms/M365Con25 (Vegas | May 6-8, 2025) Karuana Gatimu on the Top 100 list of Customer Marketing and Advocacy Influencers & Strategists. Check out the whole list: https://aka.ms/Top100CMAs. Share your Community story: https://aka.ms/ShareYourCommunityStory. Book release 📗 "The Women of Microsoft: Empowering Stories from the Minds that Coded the World": https://aka.ms/WomenOfMicrosoft. Microsoft Secure, April 9-10, 2025: https://aka.ms/MicrosoftSecureRegistration. "How universities are tapping students and AI to fight the growing threat of cybercrime" by Deborah Bach: https://aka.ms/FightingCybercrime. AI Agents Hackathon 2025, April 8-30, 2025: https://aka.ms/AIAgentsHackathon. How AI is impacting healthcare and what it means for the future of medicine — https://aka.ms/AIRevolutionMedicine. Threat actors leverage tax season to deploy tax-themed phishing campaigns: https://aka.ms/TaxThemedPhishing. Rise & Inspire: Women in Tech Leading the Way: https://aka.ms/RiseAndInspire. Listen to the SharePoint Roadmap Pitstop | March 2025 — https://aka.ms/SharePoint/RoadmapPitStop by Mark-Kashman. "Thriving together: the power of Microsoft partner communities" by Regina N. Johnson — https://aka.ms/PartnerCommunitiesBlog. Follow *Microsoft Community* on LinkedIn: https://aka.ms/MSCommunityLIMM. Discover the Microsoft Global Community Initiative - a meeting place for all who are part of the Microsoft Community ecosystem, all are welcome: https://aka.ms/MGCI. Next up on Tuesday, April 15th at 8:10 AM and again at 5:10 PM. Our guest speaker, Adam Salah. Register for upcoming events: https://CommunityDays.org/ and community calls on https://CommunityDays.org/calls. Check out our show page to add upcoming shows to your calendar or catch up on past shows at https://aka.ms/MondaysAtMicrosoft. Our next show is on Monday, April 21st at 8am Pacific.The Role of Storytelling in Community Building
On building community. "Stories are the single most powerful weapon in a leader’s arsenal." – Dr. Howard Gardner, Harvard University Storytelling has played a crucial role in human connection since the inception of civilization. It shapes identities, preserves historical records, and fosters a sense of belonging within communities. Whether conveyed through spoken word, literature, or digital media, storytelling possesses the ability to unify individuals, create shared experiences, and enhance communal bonds. The Power of Storytelling in Community Building Fostering Shared Identity Stories help communities define who they are and what they stand for. They preserve cultural traditions and values, passing them on to future generations. Encouraging Empathy and Connection Personal narratives allow people to understand each other’s experiences and struggles. Stories create emotional connections that transcend differences, building unity. Inspiring Action and Change A compelling story can mobilize people around a cause or mission. Communities often use storytelling to advocate for social change and inspire collective action. Strengthening Engagement and Participation Shared narratives encourage individuals to take active roles within their communities. Engaging stories help retain interest and commitment to communal efforts. Preserving History and Legacy Oral and written storytelling ensures that a community’s history remains alive. Stories highlight past challenges and triumphs, shaping future aspirations. I love a bookstore and find that they are great places to gather. I have many in cities around the world that I love to dip into over and over and that have wonderful schedules of events. Libraries as well, and most have programs where they sell books at a big discount. Librarians are also some of the smartest people you will meet and who know everything about the cities they serve. It has been interesting learning that "Barnes & Noble is planning to open at least 60 new stores in 2025 — a stunning turnaround for a bookseller that just a few years ago closed hundreds of locations and appeared doomed to follow in the footsteps of its shuttered competitors. Barnes & Noble opened 57 new locations in 2024 and operates around 600 stores in total, making it the largest bookseller in the US. In recent years, the bookseller has also leaned into the popularity of book content on TikTok and using #BookTok as the hashtag - and the post-pandemic thirst for "third spaces" to meet and socialize." - Business Insider To that end - our stories matter. Another favorite quote from Doctor Who, "We are all stories in the end, just make is a good one." Stories have the power to inspire, connect, and bring people together. Start by sharing your personal experiences, whether through conversations, writing, or digital platforms. Encourage others to do the same and contribute to a culture of storytelling that strengthens your local community, this community - the best community in tech. What story will you share today? And where and how will you share it? #ThePowerofCommunity #Storytelling #CommunityBuilding #BelongingMatters #CuppaCommuniTea #MicrosoftCommunity 🍵 Today I am drinking a cuppa Throat Coat by Traditional Medicines - Organic Throat Coa tea supports throat health with renowned slippery elm, used in Native American herbal medicine for hundreds of years.The Heart of Community – How Friendship Strengthens Our Social Circles
On building community. “Social connections are one of the most important factors in determining our well-being and longevity. Strong friendships benefit both individuals and the entire community. By prioritizing these relationships, we can build stronger, healthier communities." Psychologist Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad Friendship is vital for strong communities, providing emotional and social benefits. It fosters connection, trust, and belonging. Close friendships enhance personal well-being, reducing loneliness and boosting happiness. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that people with strong social connections are 50% more likely to live longer. Friendship's value goes beyond personal health; it positively impacts communities. Connected individuals are more likely to engage in social causes, collaborate on initiatives, and support each other, creating collective responsibility. This applies whether it is your local community, those that are part of your technical community, or hobbies you love like a book club or board game nights/groups. Host a community gathering – Organize a small event or gathering in your neighborhood to bring people together and foster new connections. Host a small meeting online for a quarterly check-in with friends. (I have a standing meeting with some college friends every other Sunday, sometimes there are two of us, sometimes six, sometimes we cancel, but having it on the calendar keeps it going. I find this time grounding and many times support just when I need it). Support local businesses – Frequent local shops and restaurants and engage with the owners and staff to build relationships within your community. (I recently debuted my DJing house music skills at a neighborhood benefit we did for our Los Angeles animal rescues for the wildfires.) Get to know your local business owners, chamber, rotary they are your neighbors! Volunteer for local causes – Dedicate some time to volunteer for community projects or organizations that resonate with you, helping to strengthen communal ties. One organization could benefit from even 1 hour of time and volunteering a way to make new acquaintances and friends. In the Microsoft Community space, a big shout out to those who produce both free and paid technical skilling community events and who run user groups - you are the purveyors of belonging and friendship. Be sure to check out all events in the Microsoft Community ecosystem on Communitydays.org. If you are a producer who creates events around Microsoft products, please list your event on the site! As we continue to spotlight and celebrate the individuals and initiatives that make our communities vibrant and connected, let us remember that each small act of connection and kindness contributes to the greater whole. By fostering friendships and creating inclusive spaces, we not only enhance our own lives but also build resilient, supportive communities. Let's all take a moment to reach out, engage, and uplift those around us, knowing that every gesture matters in the tapestry of community life. After twenty-four years in this space, I feel grateful to call so many of you friends of mine as well as colleagues. What is one way you can reach out to a friend today? #TheHeartofCommunity #BelongingMatters #CuppaCommuniTea #MicrosoftCommunity 🍵 Today I am drinking a cuppa Lemon Ginger tea from Bigelow Family Tea Blenders since 1945 - Fairfield, Connecticut. A probiotic tea that is a delicious blend of zesty lemon and ginger combined with BC30™ probiotic that supports healthy digestion.Random Acts of Connection – Small Ways to Foster Belonging in Everyday Life
On Building Community. "According to a study in Psychological Science, people who feel they belong to a community or group experience 30% less stress and loneliness, which positively impacts their overall health and emotional well-being." Belonging isn't solely about significant moments—it is also formed through small, daily interactions that remind individuals they are part of a larger community. Simple actions can create meaningful connections and improve someone's day. Here are some ways to practice random acts of connection: Start with a smile – A warm smile or friendly nod can make someone feel acknowledged. Give a genuine compliment – A kind word can positively impact someone's day. Engage in small talk – A brief conversation with a neighbor, barista, or coworker can create moments of connection. Invite inclusion – Notice someone new? Invite them into a conversation or shared activity. Express gratitude – A sincere “thank you” strengthens bonds and fosters appreciation. Connection is influential—when one makes the effort, others may follow. We are more the same as humans than we are different. What is one way you can foster belonging today? #RandomActsOfConnection #BelongingMatters #CuppaCommuniTea #MicrosoftCommunity 🍵 Today I am drinking a cuppa Darjeeling from Harney & Sons Fine Teas - Millerton, NY. "The Queen of Indian teas with earthy notes paired with citrus and fruit tones". A Fave.Mondays at Microsoft | Episode 35
NOW ON DEMAND | Get ready for the week with "Mondays at Microsoft" - this time *on Tuesday*! Karuana Gatimu & Heather Cook will focus on Trustworthy AI, new Copilot features, fighting deepfakes, Office 2024 release update, plus highlight upcoming community events, and more. Aired Tuesday, October 8th, 2024, 8:00am PDT. See you there! #CommunityLuv 💝 Show notes & links to all that was shared and discussed on October 8th, 2024: "Microsoft Trustworthy AI: Unlocking human potential starts with trust" by Takeshi Numoto. Live from the Microsoft AI Tour: Mexico City - https://aka.ms/MicrosoftAITourLive. Copilot is an AI companion for everyone, with new Vision and Voice features. "Fighting deepfakes with more transparency about AI" by Vanessa Ho. "Office 2024 for consumers available October 1" by Bryan Rognier — https://aka.ms/Office2024. "Microsoft recognized as a Leader in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Desktop as a Service for the second year in a row" by Stefan Kinnestrand. Power Apps Pulse video series hosted by April Dunnam + What's new in Power Apps. "European Fabric Community Conference 2024: Building an AI-powered data platform" by Arun Ulagaratchagan + "Activate your data responsibly in the era of AI with Microsoft Purview" by Rudra Mitra. To learn more about the Microsoft Global Community Initiative - a meeting place for all who are part of the Microsoft Community ecosystem, all are welcome: https://aka.ms/MGCI. We launched a new page listing our newly minted regional directors: https://aka.ms/MGCIAdvisors. "Get ready for the 2025 Microsoft Imagine Cup: Let the innovation begin!" by the Student Developer Evangelism Team. Find your next event: https://CommunityDays.org Community Days speakerboard – https://communitydays.org/speakerboard Microsoft Ignite | November 19-22, 2024, in Chicago, IL, USA. In person is sold out. Online is open to all - register today. Join us for the next episode of Mondays at Microsoft (this one back on Monday) with Karuana Gatimu and Heather Cook on Monday, October 21st, 8:00am PDT. Check out our page for our show and Community Studio efforts at https://aka.ms/MondaysAtMicrosoft.Mondays at Microsoft | Episode 33
A lot has happened in the last few weeks, with more to come. Get tech-ready and stay in the know with Mondays at Microsoft. Karuana Gatimu and Heather Cook keep you grounded with the latest in AI, broader product awareness, community activities and events, and more. Join live on Monday, September 9th, 8:00am PDT. #CommunityLuv 💖 Show notes and links to all that was shared and discussed during this episode: Update on Microsoft's approach to tackling intimate image abuse from Courtney Gregoire, Chief Digital Safety Officer. Upcoming live events: “Microsoft 365 Copilot: Wave 2” - Join Satya Nadella and Jared Spataro to learn about the next phase of Copilot innovation: September 16th at 8:00 AM PDT. "Microsoft OneDrive: AI Innovations for a New Era of Work and Home" - October 8th at 10:00 AM PDT with experts Jeff Teper, Jason Moore, Arwa Tyebkhan, Gaia Carini, and Arjun Tomar. 90-minute AMA with the Microsoft Loop product team on September 12th, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM PDT. NEW SERIES | "AI in Action: Building with Copilot Studio" with experts April Dunnam, Gomolemo Mohapi, and Elaiza Benitez. 2024 Forrester Total Economic Impact™ report for Microsoft Power Platform. Register for the Power Platform Community Conference in Las Vegas (September 18-20) - https://aka.ms/PowerPlatform/CommunityConference - including Charles Lamanna CVP and our President Jeff Teper along with CVP of Power BI and Fabric, Kim Manas along with our Chief Question Officer and Comedian, Trevor Noah. Microsoft Fabric August 2024 updates from Jason Himmelstein. To learn more about the Microsoft Global Community Initiative - a meeting place for all who are part of the Microsoft Community ecosystem, all are welcome: https://aka.ms/MGCI. We launched a new page listing our newly minted regional directors. https://aka.ms/MGCIAdvisors. So many great events coming up and all available to check out on https://www.communitydays.org. We also just launched a community calls page here so you can find community related called host by Microsoft and the community. Security link What is cybersecurity, and why it should matter to you. Explore the Microsoft Security Learning Modules. Follow the Microsoft Security blog. Join the Microsoft Security Tech Community. See you in two weeks: Join us on September 23rd at 8am PDT for our next show and check out our page for our show and Community Studio efforts at https://adoption.microsoft.com/mondays-at-microsoft.
