Building Futures Through Community: Creating Pathways into Tech
For the team behind Experts Live Denmark - organized by the Microsoft MVP & RD community in Denmark - this belief has shaped how they think about community: not just as a place to share knowledge, but as a space to open doors into the industry. That thinking is what led to the collaboration with ReDI School of Digital Integration Denmark. ReDI supports women with migrant and refugee backgrounds through digital education, mentorship, and career guidance. But as the organizers of Experts Live Denmark recognized early on, skills alone are not enough. The missing piece is often access to real environments - to people, conversations, and experiences that make the industry tangible. This is where the collaboration comes in. From Learning to Real-World Experience Rather than treating volunteers as event support, the approach has been to create an experience that reflects how the tech community actually works. As MVP Morten Knudsen says: “Our collaboration is not just about inviting volunteers to an event. It is about empowerment, mentorship, visibility, and long-term career support.” anjali Hinda at the Experts Live Denmark 2026 appreciation Dinner For volunteers like Geetanjali Hinda and Poorva Tumbde, that difference was immediately visible. Geetanjali describes it as a turning point: “It felt like a direct bridge between learning and the professional tech community.” What stood out most was not just the scale of the event - but how it felt to be part of it: “There was no clear divide between volunteers, learners, and experienced professionals. Everyone was approachable and willing to engage.” That openness is intentional. From the organizer perspective, creating an environment where people feel able to engage—not just observe - is what turns an event into an entry point. And for Geetanjali, it changed the experience entirely: “I didn’t feel like I was just supporting the event. I felt like I was contributing to it.” Confidence Comes From Participation For many entering a new country and job market, confidence can be one of the biggest barriers. Geetanjali speaks candidly about that reality: “Being a job-seeking expat, you tend to lose your confidence.” Working in a fast-paced, real-world setting helped shift that: “It reminded me of my communication and coordination skills… especially when dealing with last-minute changes.” More importantly, it changed how she approached her role: “I became more comfortable taking initiative and stepping in where needed without waiting for direction.” And something unexpected emerged: “Even without a formal role, I found myself thinking proactively and focusing on solutions.” This shift - from waiting to contributing - is exactly what the experience is designed to enable. Seeing the Industry Up Close For Poorva, the journey began through ReDI School itself: “It has been a meaningful bridge… helping us connect with and better understand Danish work culture.” Through that connection, she stepped into Experts Live Denmark and experienced the industry firsthand. What stayed with her most was the energy of the community: “The event brought together more than 1,400 attendees from diverse cultural backgrounds… What stood out to me was the passion shared by everyone involved.” But beyond the atmosphere, the experience helped expand her perspective: “I gained a better understanding of emerging technologies, the increasing role of AI… and how innovation is shaping the future of the tech industry.” Exposure to real conversations, real challenges, and real expertise helped turn abstract interest into something more concrete. Learning by Doing A key part of the experience is hands-on involvement. Poorva highlights the practical side: “I gained hands-on exposure to publishing a WordPress website, automating email communications using Microsoft Forms, and understanding the intricacies of event logistics.” At the same time, Geetanjali’s experience reflects another dimension—learning how to operate in dynamic environments. Together, these experiences provide something difficult to replicate elsewhere: Applying skills in real scenarios Understanding how collaboration works in practice Navigating uncertainty and adapting in real time Building confidence through contribution From the organizer perspective, this is the goal. Not just to expose participants to the industry - but to help them practice being part of it. More Than Technical Skills Both experiences point to a broader realization. For Poorva, it came through exposure to sessions and experts. For Geetanjali, it came through participation and interaction. As she puts it: “Being part of the tech industry is not just about technical skills, but also about collaboration and mindset.” This is a critical shift. Because entering the industry is not only about what you know - it’s about how you engage, contribute, and connect. Why This Collaboration Matters From the perspective of Experts Live Denmark, the collaboration with ReDI School is about creating continuity in the journey into tech. ReDI provides the foundation: Skills Learning Initial network The community provides the next step: Real-world exposure Practical experience Professional confidence By connecting the two, the gap between learning and working becomes smaller - and more navigable. Looking Ahead For both Poorva and Geetanjali, the experience did not end with the event. It shaped how they see their next steps. Geetanjali reflects this clearly: “Going forward, I want to combine my technical development with active participation in professional communities… showing up with a mindset of contribution, accountability, and curiosity.” That mindset - more than any single skill - is what enables long-term growth. And it is exactly what collaborations like this aim to support. Because building a strong tech community is not only about sharing knowledge. It is about bringing more people into it - and helping them find their place within it. Experts Live is a global network of community-driven conferences that brings together Microsoft executives, MVPs and community members sharing practical, real-world knowledge through sessions, conversations, and networking. Experts Live Denmark is happening again on February 9-10, 2027.How can you stay competitive and relevant in an AI-Driven World?
In a world where AI tools evolve weekly and yesterday's skills can feel obsolete overnight, this blog offers a grounded, human-first guide for cloud and technology professionals who want to stay ahead not by chasing every trend, but by building the right foundations. Across six core themes, the post walks readers through understanding what AI truly changes in the workplace, committing to deliberate and structured learning through platforms like Microsoft Learn, getting hands-on with real Azure AI projects beyond just certifications, and doubling down on the human skills critical thinking, communication, and ethical judgment that AI simply cannot replicate. The blog also makes the case for community and network as a long-term career asset, and closes with a call to develop an AI mindset rooted in curiosity, adaptability, and a willingness to experiment and share openly. Whether you're a cloud architect, a security professional preparing for AZ-500 or SC-200, or simply someone navigating what this AI shift means for your career this post is written for you. Key Takeaways for Readers: Understand AI's real impact · Build a deliberate learning habit · Go hands-on with Azure AI tools · Strengthen human skills · Invest in community · Cultivate an AI-first mindsetHow Sharon Weaver and Christian Buckley Help Future MVPs Find Their Path
For many technologists, the Microsoft MVP Award feels inspiring - but also a little mysterious. That is exactly why MVPs Sharon Weaver and Christian Buckley host a monthly AMA (Ask Me Anything) call for aspiring MVPs. Their goal is simple: create a welcoming space where people can ask honest questions, better understand what meaningful community contribution looks like, and feel less alone on the journey. What started as a way to answer the same questions more efficiently has grown into a supportive cohort that helps future MVPs build confidence and momentum. From Curiosity to Community Sharon knows firsthand how often people ask, “How do I become an MVP?” After hearing that question again and again, she realized aspiring MVPs did not just need information - they needed community. “I kept getting lots of people asking me, and I was giving the same answers out over and over and over,” Sharon said. So she and Christian decided to create one place where people could learn together, ask questions openly, and hear practical advice from people who understood the process. Sharon believes that people do not need to become someone else to be recognized as an MVP. “You don’t need to be anything other than who you are. You just need to understand that what you do has value, how to show that value, and then be really good at that and make that visible.” That message resonates because it replaces pressure with purpose. Instead of chasing a checklist or trying to become an influencer overnight, attendees are encouraged to focus on contributions they genuinely enjoy and can sustain over time. “You don’t need to be anything other than who you are. You just need to understand that what you do has value.” - MVP Sharon Weaver The monthly AMA also helps make a big goal feel more attainable. Sharon shared, “Having other people who are not there yet to support you through that journey makes as big a difference as having people who have already been awarded.” Over the past two years, that support has mattered: Sharon said the cohort has helped around 15 people who attended the calls go on to receive the MVP Award. For Sharon, the joy is not in doing the work for anyone else; it is in opening the door, answering questions, and helping others see that their efforts already have value. “One piece of advice from the AMA calls that stayed with me was to make sure your contributions are things you enjoy doing and would do regardless of the MVP title.” - MVP Rachel Sullivan Turning Insight Into Impact One of the biggest myths Sharon hears is that aspiring MVPs need a huge platform to be considered. “Everybody thinks you need to be a speaker or an influencer,” she said. “Pick the things you do, do them well, and be visible.” That advice has helped attendees reframe the process around authentic contribution instead of comparison. MVP Rachel Sullivan reflected, “One piece of advice from the AMA calls that stayed with me was to make sure your contributions are things you enjoy doing and would do regardless of the MVP title.” MVP Karinne Bessette shared a similar takeaway: “The AMA calls made the MVP process feel more approachable because it gave real perspectives from other MVPs and people on the MVP path, which helped fight imposter syndrome.” The monthly calls also help people understand that visibility matters. Sharon encourages attendees to connect with product groups, communicate their impact clearly, and advocate for their work in ways that feel genuine. The path is rarely instant - Sharon estimates many people spend two to three years on the journey - but the combination of clarity, encouragement, and community makes a real difference. Just as importantly, the calls remind people that not receiving the award the first time is not the end of the story. It is simply part of a longer journey of growth, contribution, and persistence. “The AMA calls made the MVP process feel more approachable because it gave real perspectives from other MVPs and people on the MVP path, which helped fight the imposter syndrome.” - MVP Karinne Bessette Why This Matters The value of these AMA calls goes far beyond helping one person earn an award. They remind people that they are not alone, that their voice matters, and that there is space for them in this community exactly as they are. For someone who feels uncertain, overwhelmed, or unsure whether what they do is enough, that kind of encouragement can be transformative. It can spark confidence, create connection, and turn self-doubt into action. When people feel seen, supported, and inspired to keep going, the impact reaches far beyond a single moment - it deepens the sense of belonging that makes this community so special. “If these chats help people realize one thing, I hope it’s that there is no specific checklist of tasks to complete to become an MVP. It can be a very different path for each MVP, because there are countless ways to give back to the community. You don’t need to follow someone else’s formula—you need to find a contribution path that’s authentic and sustainable for you." – MVP Christian Buckley Keep the Momentum Going If you are curious about becoming a Microsoft MVP, consider joining Sharon and Christian’s monthly AMA calls and taking the next step alongside others who are asking the same questions. And if you are already an MVP, think about how you might create a similar space in your own region or community. Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is make the path feel more visible for someone else. Learn more from Sharon’s blog post, Navigating the Microsoft MVP Nomination Process: Tips and Insights, and meet these community leaders: Sharon Weaver, Christian Buckley, Rachel Sullivan, and Karinne Bessette. Want to Learn More About the MVP Program? To find an MVP and learn more about the MVP Program visit the MVP Communities website and follow our updates on LinkedIn or #mvpbuzz. Join us for a future live session through the Microsoft Reactor where we walk through what the MVP program is about, what we look for, and how nominations work. These sessions are designed to help you connect the dots between the work you’re already doing and the impact the MVP Program recognizes - with time for questions, examples, and real conversations.From Late Nights to Global Impact: Ariane Djeupang’s Microsoft MVP Journey
DjangoCon Africa Some journeys begin with a plan. Others begin with a brave choice—and the determination to keep showing up. For Ariane Djeupang, becoming a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) wasn’t a trophy hunt. It was the next chapter in a much longer story: years of mentoring, organizing, writing, and building community - often with limited resources, but unlimited heart. Meet Ariane: a builder of communities Ariane is a project manager and machine learning engineer based in Cameroon - and a leader across multiple open-source communities. “I’m currently chairing PyCon Africa,” she shared, describing a conference that rotates host countries across the continent. In addition, she volunteers and organizes across the Python and Django ecosystem, mentoring beginners, coaching Django Girls workshops, and helping events run smoothly behind the scenes. “I also mentor people - newcomers and beginners in tech - and those who would like to start their Python or Django journey.” Choosing her own path into tech Growing up, Ariane felt the familiar pressure many young people experience: someone else had already decided what her future “should” be. “My dad wanted me to become a doctor,” she said. But after high school, she made a bold pivot: “I instantly chose to register in computer science.” From there, her world expanded beyond textbooks. A senior student introduced her to a local developer community, and Ariane started asking big questions: “What is a community? … What is that impact?” Soon she was volunteering at events - and then helping build new ones. She and peers co-founded Python Cameroon, fueled by a love for the language and its welcoming learning curve. “I used to describe the syntax as elegant,” she laughed, remembering how she encouraged friends to start learning Python. DjangoCon Africa The moment she became a Microsoft MVP Ariane didn’t set out to chase an award—she didn’t even know the program existed until a friend from the Django community pointed it out. “That was my first time … someone talking about that,” she said. After she was nominated and completed the application, she was welcomed into the Microsoft MVP community - one of only four MVPs in Cameroon, and the first (and currently only) woman MVP in the country. “It’s like a validation of years of dedication for me - because late nights and written tutorials… organizing meetups and events, mentoring aspiring technologists… all these were done with limited resources.” For Ariane, the recognition wasn’t just personal - it was also a statement about what meaningful contribution looks like. “Impact is not just measured by … demography, by geography or privilege,” she said. “It’s measured by consistency.” Professionally, being an MVP opened doors she “never imagined even possible” - including “direct access to Microsoft product teams” and early previews of technology (she mentioned getting access to previews in GitHub Copilot). But she quickly returned to what matters most to her: the people around her. “Perhaps, most importantly, it’s a responsibility,” Ariane said. In a country where digital transformation is still emerging and opportunity can be unevenly distributed, she sees her MVP platform as a way to show others what’s possible - especially for those whose voices are too often overlooked. Ariane’s advice: inclusion is built (and rebuilt) every day When asked what helps communities become more welcoming - especially in global spaces - Ariane didn’t hesitate. She believes experienced community leaders have “a unique responsibility … to set the tone for inclusion.” Here are a few practices she shared that any of us can start using right now. Lead with empathy. “Remember what it felt like to be new,” she said - and also what it felt like “to be uncertain, to be overlooked.” Her takeaway: be patient, approachable, and generous with your time. Lower the barriers to entry. Ariane called out onboarding as a common inclusion failure point: “The onboarding processes are not really … easy for newcomers.” Her fix: beginner-friendly resources and “safe spaces for questions,” recognizing that not everyone starts with the same access or confidence. Actively amplify diverse voices. “Seek out and highlight contributions from women … from people with disabilities … and those from rural or marginalized backgrounds,” she urged, emphasizing that representation matters “at every level.” Mentor and sponsor - then advocate. Mentorship is more than advice: “Connect them with opportunities and also advocate for their inclusion in events, projects and also in leadership roles.” Foster collaboration across communities. She encouraged cross-community partnerships, hybrid events, and knowledge exchange—because “the more we break down silos, the richer our communities become.” “Inclusivity is not just a one-time effort, it’s a continuous practice. By modeling openness, humility, and curiosity… we can create environments where everyone feels they belong, can contribute - contribute meaningfully.” “No rush”: a message to new leaders (and future MVPs) Ariane also offered a refreshingly grounded reminder about growth: it doesn’t have to be frantic to be real. She remembers the early days of MVP onboarding clearly. “There is a lot to know. There is a lot to read,” she said. Her advice: “Don’t rush… no rush. You will learn gradually.” Most importantly, she encouraged new MVPs (and anyone stepping into leadership) to keep doing what earned trust in the first place: “Just continue to work as you used to work.” Yes, new doors open - talk opportunities, volunteering, collaborations - but sustainability matters. “At the end of the day, you are not like a robo,” she said. “You shouldn’t overstress yourself … trying to prove ‘I’m an MVP’ by doing everything at once. “I’m giving 15 talks in one month… I’ve written 100 articles in one month… that’s not sustainable.” Inclusion is also logistics: access, travel, and the power of naming In Ariane’s world, “inclusion” isn’t just what happens on stage - it’s whether people can even get into the room. She spoke candidly about the realities many African technologists face when attending global events: flights that can be “almost 2000” dollars, plus accommodation, ground transportation, and visa fees. Those constraints don’t reflect a lack of talent - they reflect a lack of access. And sometimes, inclusion starts with language. Ariane helped change the name of a conference benefit from “financial aid” to “opportunity grant.” Why? “The main reason we changed it was because of inclusivity reasons,” she explained. Some people avoid applying because they don’t want to be seen as “broken”—when the reality is simply: “I cannot afford maybe a ticket or the flight to attend the conference.” Names matter. They can either add stigma - or open a door. Call to action: be the person who makes the room bigger Ariane’s story is a celebration - but it’s also an invitation. In every region, in every user group, in every online forum, we can choose to be the kind of community member who makes someone feel seen. We can lead with empathy. We can simplify onboarding. We can amplify voices that are too often ignored. And we can sponsor - not just with money, but with introductions, speaking invites, leadership opportunities, and public credit. If you want to learn from Ariane’s advice and support underrepresented voices in your tech community, start here: Make your next welcome explicit. Message a newcomer, invite questions, and share a “getting started” path. Share the mic. Recommend a first-time speaker, co-present, or offer a practice run and feedback. Turn mentorship into sponsorship. Introduce someone to organizers, nominate them for opportunities, and advocate for them in rooms they’re not in yet. Design for access. Offer hybrid options when possible, publish clear event logistics, and be thoughtful about cost and travel barriers. Build partnerships locally. Break down silos by collaborating with neighboring communities, universities, and local meetups to create pathways in your region. Learn more Congratulations again to Ariane - an MVP whose work reminds us that community leadership isn’t about a spotlight. It’s about building ladders, widening doors, and making sure more people get to step into their future. Learn more and connect with Ariane Djeupang through her MVP Profile and on LinkedIn. Want to Learn More About the MVP Program? To find an MVP and learn more about the MVP Program visit the MVP Communities website and follow our updates on LinkedIn or #mvpbuzz. Join us for a future live session through the Microsoft Reactor where we walk through what the MVP program is about, what we look for, and how nominations work. These sessions are designed to help you connect the dots between the work you’re already doing and the impact the MVP Program recognizes - with time for questions, examples, and real conversations.From Ignite Momentum to Build Readiness: How Communities Turn Announcements into Action
Introduction At Microsoft Ignite, the company delivers bold announcements about the future of AI, cloud, and developer platforms. But once the livestreams end and the keynotes fade, a familiar question emerges: How do these ideas reach people where they actually build and learn? The answer came from the community. Through MVP-led initiatives, community leaders across the globe transformed Ignite announcements into local, hands-on learning experiences. What followed wasn’t just a series of recap events — it was a global story of connection, localization, and shared momentum. Story The idea was simple, but powerful: take Ignite beyond the virtual stage and into local communities. Across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Latin America, MVPs and community organizers stepped up. Each group started from a different place — different languages, different audiences, different challenges — but they all shared the same goal: make Ignite meaningful locally. In Seoul, developers gathered to explore the present and futureof Copilot, disc ussing practical use cases they could bring to work the very next day. In Manila, a large-scale Ignite Local Edition event mirrored the feel of a first-party conference, proving that global experiences can thrive through community leadership. In Europe, smaller meetups created space for deep technical conversations around Azure, AI, and Microsoft 365 innovations. In student-focused communities, Ignite became a gateway — inspiring early-career developers to learn, experiment, and imagine what they could build next. These weren’t passive events. They were full of discussion, hands-on exploration, and peer-to-peer learning. Ignite announcements became starting points — not endpoints. Across Latin America, community-led Ignite sessions created new opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing. As one attendee from Peru shared: “Thank you for bringing us the latest technological innovations through these kinds of events.” For MVP leaders like Jesús Gonzales, the motivation was clear: “I like sharing technological knowledge and reaching more people so we can make a real difference in their lives.” In the Philippines, one attendee reflected on the deeper impact of these sessions within their communities: “Learning gives you wings to fly.” Another MVP Doher Brizzle Pable from Philippines described the experience as: “Tired — but TIEd: transformed, inspired, and empowered — since everything we do is for our community.” These shared experiences are now shaping how local leaders prepare their communities for the next wave of announcements at Microsoft Build. Impact and Insights Through a series of Ignite-related community events, a few patterns became clear. First, local context matters. Communities don’t want just announcements — they want interpretation, relevance, and examples that reflect their reality. MVPs played a crucial role as trusted translators between global vision and local practice. Second, lightweight enablement unlocks scale. Practical support such as venue access, coordination guidance, and content alignment helped reduce barriers without adding complexity. Finally, community leaders are force multipliers. When given trust and flexibility, they don’t just repeat content — they elevate it. They create safe spaces to ask questions, experiment, and learn together. The result was not just participation, but momentum: deeper engagement with Microsoft Learn, stronger local ecosystems, and renewed energy across global technical communities. Call to Action As Microsoft Build approaches, the success of Ignite Community Events offers a clear blueprint. When global announcements meet passionate local leaders, something powerful happens. Learning becomes accessible. Innovation becomes shared. And community becomes the catalyst. If you’re a community organizer, MVP, or aspiring leader, keep an eye out for upcoming Build Community Event opportunities. The next chapter is already taking shape — and once again, it will be written together by the community. Resources To find an MVP and learn more about the MVP Program visit the MVP Communities website and follow our updates on LinkedIn or #mvpbuzz. Join us for a future live session through the Microsoft Reactor where we walk through what the MVP program is about, what we look for, and how nominations work. These sessions are designed to help you connect the dots between the work you’re already doing and the impact the MVP Program recognizes — with time for questions, examples, and real conversations.Celebrating Our MVP Product Champions at MVP Summit 2026
This week marks the start of MVP Summit 2026, and we wanted to take a moment to give a huge shout‑out to our MVP Product Champions who are attending—whether in person or online. Thank you for everything you do for the community. Your expertise, time, and continued contributions make a real impact, and we’re wishing you an amazing and inspiring Summit experience! We’re also excited to welcome new members who learned about the Product Champions program during MVP Summit—welcome! We’re so glad to have you here and can’t wait to see you get involved. Whether you’re joining us from the Summit or contributing from anywhere in the world, we truly appreciate you and all the contributions you make to Microsoft Q&A. #MVPSummit 🧡MVPs Global Student Innovation: Sprint to Imagine Cup 2026
Introduction Microsoft MVPs played a pivotal role in igniting student creativity through Sprint to Imagine Cup 2026 engagements. These community-driven sessions brought Agentic AI, Azure AI, and Copilot Studio directly to universities and developer communities across Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. In many regions with limited access to advanced AI technologies, MVPs bridged the gap through mentorship, hands-on learning, and inspiring demonstrations. What began as local sprints evolved into a global movement democratizing innovation and empowering thousands of students to build their first AI-powered solutions. Story This year’s Sprint to Imagine Cup journey reached diverse countries and communities—including India, Nepal, Pakistan, South Korea, South Africa, Denmark, Spain, Peru, and participants from around the world joining virtually. Every location brought forward inspiring stories of resilience, curiosity, and transformation. In India, MVP Augustine Correa led a 1,000 km tour from Mumbai to Mangaluru. Remote colleges without air conditioning, long travel distances, and high heat did not stop students from attending. Live coding errors became teachable moments as Augustine used AI Agents to collaborate with students, debug code, and accelerate project velocity. Many students left with working prototypes and their first GitHub pull requests. During the Mumbai session at the Microsoft office, student Ajinkya Furange reflected: “Thrilled to share that I successfully took on the first big challenge of my AI journey… This hands‑on workshop boosted my confidence to build impactful AI-driven solutions.” Another participant, Mitansh Jadhav, added: “One of the most eye‑opening concepts was seeing the AI Agent’s decision-making loop in action… We were challenged to solve five labs using Copilot, perfectly simulating real-world problem solving.” In Bangalore and Chennai, MVP Mohamed Azarudeen hosted two Sprint sessions with 250 and 120 participants. Students refined ideas, clarified Imagine Cup pathways, and built early-stage AI projects. Students frequently shared how the sprint turned “I have an idea” into “I know how to move forward.” Across Pakistan and Nepal, MVPs delivered AI workshops on Azure AI, Foundry, Copilot Studio, and Responsible AI—often serving as students’ first exposure to advanced AI technologies. MVP Gulnaz Mushtaq in Pakistan hosted ten Sprint events across major university hubs including Peshawar, Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. Nepal’s innovation culture continued as MVP Pradeep Kandel led the Kathmandu Ideathon, engaging 150–200 students from 70 universities. The event strengthened idea development, mentorship pairing, and preparation for Imagine Cup 2026. Also, MVPs Heo Soek, Inhee Lee and Jaeseok Lee in Korea led a successful Sprint at Microsoft Office Seoul allowing students to explore AI startup concepts. A student participant from Korea shared: “In this fast-changing AI era, I was unsure about my direction… but this event helped me understand what kind of talent I should become and find clarity.” Another female student team from a regional Korean university said: “We will prepare for Imagine Cup together—thank you for giving us this opportunity.” A Korean attendee added: “Even though the workshop lasted more than six hours, it was never boring—well‑timed hands‑on labs and activities kept it both fun and meaningful.” In Europe, MVP Thomas Martinsen (Denmark) and MVP Roberto Corella (Spain) expanded the movement with sessions on Copilot extensibility and AI for Business Central. Latin American MVPs Jorge Castaneda, Meerali Naseet and Juan Rafael delivered cybersecurity and Spanish-language AI workshops supporting students across Peru and Costa Rica. Impact Insights Global impact from Sprint to Imagine Cup 2026 has been broad and profound. A total of 70 worldwide events reached an estimated 4,200–5,000 students globally. More than 3,300–4,000 learners engaged directly with Microsoft AI tools such as Azure AI Services, Copilot Studio, and Foundry Agents. Across all regions, 65% of participants attended in-person while 35% joined through online or hybrid formats, including Spanish-language virtual events in Latin America. Social media amplified momentum as students shared prototypes, learnings, and excitement on LinkedIn and X using hashtags such as #SprintToImagineCup, #ImagineCup, #MumTechUp, and #HMNOV25. Many students shared sentiments similar to: “The meeting was very informative and inspiring. I learned a lot about the competition and technologies involved, and I’m excited to begin this journey.” and “Thank you so much… your explanation made everything easier to understand. Looking forward to attending more sessions!” Call to Action / Closing The global Sprint to Imagine Cup movement demonstrates that innovation thrives when community leaders uplift new creators. MVPs are equipping students with the skills, confidence, and AI fluency needed to build solutions for the future. As the Imagine Cup 2026 season continues, now is the perfect time for MVPs and community leaders to host sessions, mentor teams, and amplify student stories—helping shape the next generation of AI innovators. Resources Microsoft Learn – Azure AI: https://learn.microsoft.com/azure/ai Microsoft Copilot Studio: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-copilot-studio GitHub Agentic AI Samples: https://github.com/microsoft Imagine Cup Official Site: https://imaginecup.microsoft.comIs the Microsoft MVP Program for You? A Love Letter to Community Builders
Most Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals remember the moment they realized they were already doing the work. Writing that blog post late at night because someone, somewhere, might find it helpful. Answering questions in a forum long after an event ended. Organizing a meetup with no guarantee anyone would show up. Long before the title, the badge, or the email arrived, the impact was already there. If you’ve ever wondered whether the Microsoft MVP Program might be for you, you are in the right place. The MVP Program Isn’t About Being the Loudest Voice One of the biggest misconceptions about the MVP Program is that it’s reserved for the most visible experts or the people with the biggest platforms. In reality, the MVP Program celebrates impact—and impact looks different everywhere. It can be sharing deep technical knowledge through blogs, videos, or open-source projects. Mentoring others as they grow in confidence and skill. Building safe, inclusive spaces where people feel welcome to learn. Translating complex ideas so more people can access them. Showing up consistently for your community. MVPs aren’t defined by a single moment. They’re recognized for sustained contribution, technical leadership, and generosity over time. A Global Community, Shaped by Local Voices The MVP community spans the globe, across countries, cultures, languages, and career paths. That diversity isn’t incidental; it’s essential. Every community has unique challenges and opportunities. MVPs bring local context to global conversations, ensuring that innovation isn’t centralized, but shared. Whether you’re organizing events in your city, supporting online communities in your native language, or helping others navigate their first steps in tech, your perspective matters. The program grows stronger when more voices, experiences, and stories are part of it. Growth Goes Both Ways Becoming an MVP isn’t just about recognition; it’s also about acceleration. MVPs deepen their technical curiosity, strengthen their leadership skills, and build lasting connections across regions and disciplines. They learn from peers who challenge and inspire them, and they give back by sharing insights and amplifying others. It’s a cycle of learning and contribution, powered by curiosity and care. Your Story Matters, even If It Doesn’t Feel “Big” Yet Many MVPs will tell you they hesitated before applying or accepting a nomination. “I’m still learning.” “I don’t post enough.” “Others are doing more.” But the MVP Program isn’t about perfection. It’s about intentional impact. If you’re consistently helping others learn, grow, and build — your story belongs here. And sharing that story might inspire someone else to take their first step too. Thinking About Applying? If this resonates with you, consider taking the next step: Reflect on how you’ve contributed to the community Gather examples of your impact, big or small Ask peers or community members for feedback Explore the MVP nomination process and guidelines And remember: applying isn’t a finish line. It’s part of a longer journey of learning, sharing, and growing together. Want to Learn More? Join Us Live! If you’re curious about the Microsoft MVP Program and want to explore it in a low‑pressure, welcoming space, we host quarterly live sessions through Microsoft Reactor where we walk through what the program is about, what we look for, and how nominations work. These sessions are designed to help you connect the dots between the work you’re already doing and the impact the MVP Program recognizes — with time for questions, examples, and real conversations. The next "MVP Program Essentials: What You Need to Know" session takes place on March 17! Join us here. Ready to Take the Leap? The Microsoft MVP Program exists because of people who believe that knowledge grows when it’s shared — and that communities thrive when we lift each other up. So here’s the question: What’s your MVP story — and are you ready to write the next chapter? Learn more about the MVP Program and how to apply Review the FAQs Follow the MVP community on X and LinkedIn Share your journey and encourage others to do the same We can’t wait to see what you’ll build, and who you’ll help along the way.My MVP Story: Finding My Way Into Data and Community - Deborah Jones’ Journey
In the world of data, some people learn tools - and some turn them into superpowers. Microsoft MVP Deborah Jones is firmly in the second category. She’s self-taught across Power BI, Power Apps, Power Automate, and SharePoint, and she puts those skills to work in a high-stakes setting: a nuclear power plant in Canada. She also co-leads two user groups. Deborah’s story starts with a simple question: “What else can I do with data?” Microsoft AI Tour From curiosity to capability For Deborah, becoming a Microsoft MVP wasn’t about chasing a title - it followed naturally from curiosity, persistence, and a habit of helping others learn. “I honestly had never heard of the MVP program at all,” she said. “People kept saying, ‘You should be nominated,’ and I was like, ‘I have no idea what you’re talking about.’” After years in project management and construction, she shifted into the nuclear industry as a reporting analyst and encountered Power BI almost by accident. A consultant told her, “I think this is going to blow up. You definitely need to learn this [Power BI]” - and she listened. Formal courses didn’t fully click at first, but hands-on practice (and real problems to solve) did. Community turned learning into momentum The turning point was community. During the pandemic, Deborah found and joined the Power BI Women user group - a judgment-free space where people shared what they knew. Over time, she went from showing up as a learner to helping lead the user group as a co-lead. “I was so surprised. I had never seen a community where people didn’t gatekeep information,” she said. “People were just sharing - asking questions, answering questions.” At first, Deborah was the one asking. Over time, she became the one answering - sharing the real, non-linear experience of learning while working full time and raising a family. That authenticity resonated, especially with students and early-career professionals, and mentorship became a cornerstone of her community work. Samuel Gomez, Jack Lee, Betsy Weber (Microsoft), Deborah Jones, Harjit Dhaliwal, Christopher Gill at the Microsoft AI Tour Leading with impact (and a clear mission) As a Black woman in tech, Deborah is passionate about empowering others - mentoring new data professionals and helping people get unstuck when a report (or a career path) feels out of reach. Her mission is straightforward: make data accessible, useful, and empowering. Like many MVPs, Deborah’s journey wasn’t a straight line. She first learned about the MVP program through the Power BI community, agreed to be nominated, and didn’t get accepted the first time. Instead of letting that moment stall her, she took guidance from fellow MVP Belinda Allen, who encouraged her to speak up about her work and impact: “You have to talk about yourself… and I got it.” The MVP award itself didn’t fully click for her until she attended the MVP Summit. Before that, she said it could feel like “your face is on this little website” plus some perks. At Summit, the bigger purpose came into focus through the people: “Some of the people I met were just phenomenal,” she said - and suddenly, it all made sense. In that moment, she realized the point wasn’t the badge - it was the community behind it, and that’s exactly why she keeps showing up and giving back. Going in without expectations was part of the gift: it was a “good dry run” that let her experience the community without feeling like she had anything to prove. That experience also reinforced how she thinks about recognition: it’s an added bonus, not the goal. As Deborah put it, “If I don’t get renewed… I did it twice. Just celebrate that.” - because either way, she’s going to keep doing the work she loves and giving back. Practical, approachable solutions Deborah is known for building practical tools that make everyday work easier - often small, incremental improvements that add up. “I’m not after the big flashy solution,” she laughed. “I like the little incremental stuff that just makes your day easier.” Accessibility is central to her approach. She documents in plain language so others can understand and maintain what she builds, and she encourages learners to start with a dataset they genuinely enjoy - because curiosity sticks when it’s fun. Deborah’s advice: start small, find your people, keep going Deborah doesn’t offer a rigid roadmap. Her guidance comes down to a few habits that helped her build momentum - through curiosity, community, and small wins. Start with what’s meaningful - and solve one small problem. “There’s no point in trying to dive into something big… there’s always a business problem you can solve, as little as you think it is.” She also recommends learning with data you actually enjoy: “Bring something that you’re interested in… something you’re passionate about.” Find a community that shares openly (then participate). “I’ve never seen something where people didn’t gatekeep information so much… people were just talking, asking questions.” Those spaces helped her learn in public and eventually lead. Make your work easy to follow - and keep going when it’s hard. “It shouldn’t be a mystery how I got from point A to point B.” And when momentum dips: “You’re going to have moments where you feel like giving up, but then it’s like - okay, what are you going to do next?” Why MVP fits Today, Deborah is a Microsoft MVP because she consistently shows up for others - sharing what she’s learning, building in public, and making technology feel more approachable. Her mission? To turn data into a superpower for all. Learn more about Deborah and her community contributions on her MVP profile, connect with her on LinkedIn and consider joining the Power BI Women’s user group.From ESPN to the Spreadsheet Arena: How Excel MVPs Powered the Microsoft Excel World Championship
If you’ve ever watched someone do serious data work in Excel - building a model that feels like magic or using a perfectly crafted LAMBDA to do in one line what used to take a page of helper columns - you already understand the spirit of Excel esports. The Microsoft Excel World Championship (MEWC) turns that spirit into a live competition: timed “cases,” real-time leaderboards, and a crowd that cheers for spreadsheet moves the way sports fans cheer for a buzzer-beater. At the 2025 MEWC Finals (held December 1–3, 2025 at the HyperX Arena in Las Vegas), Microsoft MVPs showed up everywhere - on the broadcast desk, behind the scenes writing cases, and throughout the community sharing training tips and “inside tricks.” And in the biggest MVP moment of all, Excel MVP Diarmuid Early took home the world championship title. “The Excel World Championship is a high-stakes, fast-paced competition where top Excel users from around the world solve complex, timed challenges using advanced formulas and strategies.” – MVP Oz du Soleil Meet the Champion: MVP Diarmuid Early Winning the Microsoft Excel World Championship isn’t about memorizing a few formulas - it’s about staying calm under pressure, translating messy scenarios into clean models, and finding the fastest path from question to answer. In 2025, that combination belonged to Diarmuid Early, who battled through a field of elite competitors and emerged as the Microsoft Excel World Champion. One of the most MVP things about this win is what happened after the confetti: Diarmuid has been sharing how he thinks about cases and how he trains. If you want to learn by watching a world-class workflow end-to-end, start with his Road to Las Vegas 2025 video playlist, then check out his behind-the-scenes breakdown video, I won the Excel World Championship by folding Origami in a spreadsheet. It’s part engineering, part creativity - and 100% Excel. Diarmuid’s story also illustrates the bigger point: Excel esports is community-powered. The same people who teach, write, and answer questions every day are the ones shaping the competition - whether they’re designing challenges, explaining strategies on-air, or helping new players level up. Here’s a look at how MVPs helped make MEWC 2025 happen. (left) and MVP Oz du Soleil (right) in the commentary booth, breaking down the action at the Microsoft Excel Collegiate Championship (MECC) 2025. Photo credit: Giles Male On the mic: MVPs bringing Excel esports to the world “I was leaning over the commentators balcony looking out at hundreds of Excel fanatics who had travelled to Vegas to watch other people battle it out on spreadsheets… I just remember looking at Oz, and Oz looking at me, and he said '... we get to do this for a living?? I love my life'.” - MVP Giles Male For many viewers, the first “wait… Excel has a world championship?” moment happens because MEWC is genuinely fun to watch - especially with experts translating the action in real time. MVPs have been front and center on the broadcast, providing commentary that balanced entertainment with the kind of technical clarity only seasoned Excel educators can deliver. Oz du Soleil (Excel on Fire) is a long-time Excel educator known for making advanced concepts approachable - and for bringing serious storyteller energy. As an Excel esports commentator, Oz helps viewers understand not just what competitors are doing, but why their approach works (and when it doesn’t). Giles Male (Full Stack Modeller) brings deep modeling credibility to the desk - and, as he’s shared, sometimes gets the call with almost no notice. That combination of expertise and adaptability is exactly what makes live Excel commentary work. Jon Acampora (Excel Campus) is a familiar voice to many in the community, and his teaching-first mindset shows up perfectly in esports commentary: quick explanations, smart shortcuts, and a constant focus on helping viewers learn while they watch. Tim Heng (Sum Product) adds both technical sharpness and audience-friendly pacing - calling out the “tiny” decisions that separate good solutions from great ones (keyboard efficiency, formula structure, and when to stop polishing and submit). (left) and MVP Tim Heng (right) adding their commentary at the Microsoft Excel World Championship 2025. Photo credit: MVP Celia Alves What makes MEWC different: cases, clocks, and commentary prep “We get the cases a few days early so we can solve them ourselves - and then we map out how to explain the key moves, because the competition moves incredibly fast.” - MVP Oz du Soleil MEWC challenges competitors with timed Excel “cases” - scenario-based problem sets where accuracy, speed, and strategy all matter. The Finals are streamed on YouTube (and have also appeared on ESPN’s The Ocho), which means the broadcast must serve two audiences at once: hardcore Excel nerds who want to see the formula choices, and curious newcomers who just want to understand why the leaderboard is moving so fast. That’s where MVP commentary shines. As MVPs like Oz and Giles have shared, the commentary team typically receives cases in advance, works through solutions, and plans how to explain the key decision points - because once the clock starts, competitors can be done before you’ve even finished reading the question. “I was asked to step in 48 hours before the finals commenced. Which meant I had to try to learn all 9 battle cases in two days… this was all very intense, nerve-wracking, but just an amazing experience and opportunity overall.” - MVP Giles Male Behind the scenes: MVPs designing the puzzles (and sharing the playbook) Great esports needs great “maps.” In MEWC, that means cases that are tricky, fair, and fun - designed to reward strong spreadsheet fundamentals and creative approaches. Several MVPs contribute to the ecosystem that makes those cases possible, including MVPs David Brown, David Fortin Giles Male, Klinsmann Langhanz, Renier Wessels, and Tim Heng who create Excel challenge cases for the competition and for practice. And then there’s the part you can’t put on a scoreboard: the ongoing sharing culture. Around every battle, MVPs and community experts swap approaches, publish walkthroughs, break down solutions on YouTube, and teach the mental models that help competitors get faster. That might look like a new keyboard shortcut habit, a reusable “personal LAMBDA collection,” or a clever way to structure a model so you can answer six questions without rebuilding your logic six times. Why it matters (beyond bragging rights) Excel is one of the most widely used technology platforms on the planet - and yet many people still underestimate what it can do (or what great Excel users can do with it). MEWC puts advanced spreadsheet skills on a public stage and makes them legible: you can see the tradeoffs, the patterns, the creativity, and the discipline. When MVPs are involved at multiple levels - broadcasting, designing, teaching, competing - it sends a clear signal: this is a real craft, and the community around it is generous with knowledge. “Excel [is] the one tool that almost everyone has had to use at some stage in their career… 95% of the conversations I have with people who don’t know about it start with ‘No way… that exists??’ And then you start watching, and it’s just fascinating to see what a top Excel esport player can actually do.” - MVP Giles Male MVP Giles Male Watch it, learn from it, then try it Want to watch before you try it yourself? You’ve got two great options: a quick recap, or the full multi-hour deep dive. Highlights: Microsoft Excel World Championship 2025 Finals Highlights (12:43) Full competition: Microsoft Excel World Championship 2025 – Finals (4:00:54) And, if you’re thinking “My Excel skills aren’t enough,” that’s actually the perfect place to start - because you improve by doing cases, reviewing solutions, and iterating. You can jump in through Excel Esports Online, and explore practice material with sample cases (free) and case studies (fee). Many competitors (including MVPs) also share solution walkthroughs - often complete with explanations and reusable formulas. The pipeline is real: MECC and the next generation of Excel athletes One of the most exciting parts of the Excel esports story is how quickly it’s building a next-gen talent pipeline. Alongside MEWC is the Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge (MECC), a global competition for college students created by Excel MVP David Brown. It’s an on-ramp for students who want to test their skills, meet the community, and learn in public. If you haven’t read it yet, here’s a great starting point: From the Classroom to Las Vegas: MVP David Brown and the Excel Esports Revolution. Together, MECC and MEWC show how Excel learning can be both rigorous and genuinely fun - whether you’re a student, a seasoned analyst, or someone who loves discovering a cleaner way to write the same logic. Join the Excel community (and learn from the MVPs) Whether you watched MEWC on ESPN, caught a highlights clip on YouTube, or you’re quietly building a practice workbook at 1 a.m., the best part of Excel esports is that it’s welcoming. You don’t need to be “ready.” You just need to be curious - then practice, learn, and repeat. “To future competitors: just start. Don’t wait… You get better by competing. So just get stuck in, and learn from the early experiences which we all have to work through!” - MVP Giles Male If you want to sharpen your skills, trade ideas with other spreadsheet nerds, and learn directly from the people who teach the world’s best Excel techniques, join the Excel community and connect with our Excel MVPs. Start by exploring the championship home base at the Microsoft Excel World Championship website, try a few cases, and then share what you learned - because the fastest way to level up is to learn together.
