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I had an amazing time at the 2024 Esri User Conference (Esri UC), which is a great event for GIS (Geographic Information Systems) enthusiasts.  Imagine immersing yourself in the world of GIS technology, where you can create, explore, and analyze maps and data to uncover fascinating patterns and connections in the world around us. 
For GIS specialists like me the Esri UC offers an amazing chance to expand our professional circle, enhance our GIS skills, stay updated on cutting-edge trends, and draw inspiration from fellow professionals who are paving the way in GIS-powered storytelling. As part of ÃÛèÖAPP’s boreal conservation program, my work harnesses the power of GIS and storytelling to champion the establishment of Indigenous Protected & Conserved Areas across Canada. I am excited to bring back some valuable insights from the event to help further that important work.

Expanding Knowledge and Skills

The user conference is jam-packed with exciting learning opportunities, from captivating plenary sessions featuring influential speakers from various industries to engaging special interest meetings, social events, and hands-on technical labs. One tool that has truly made a difference for my team is the ArcGIS StoryMap. It's a fantastic web-based application that allows us to combine maps with narrative text and multimedia content to tell impactful stories. Make sure to check out one of our most recent StoryMaps about .

The most thrilling part of the technical sessions was definitely the "What’s New and Road Ahead" workshop, where we got the inside scoop on the latest developments. One particularly exciting update is the upcoming integration of AI assistants into the StoryMap tool. This integration has the potential to revolutionize storytelling by offering valuable feedback and enhancing the stories we create, ultimately helping us to connect with an even wider audience.

Networking with Industry Leaders

Networking with GIS professionals from various sectors was an amazing experience. I had the opportunity to exchange ideas and learn about different approaches to common challenges. At the Science Symposium, I even got to meet Dr. Dawn Wright, Esri's chief scientist. She's an incredible inspiration, having recently made history as the first Black person to go on an expedition to map Challenger Deep. If you're curious to learn more about Challenger Deep, check out this fascinating StoryMap—!

Supporting My Work

The theme of this year's User Conference, "Uniting the World," truly speaks to our dedication to amplifying the voices of the community in Canada's Boreal Forest and bridging the gap with the global community. 
I am thrilled to further enhance my GIS skills and gain insights from fellow professionals who are leveraging GIS in storytelling. The conference has already provided me with invaluable knowledge and connections, sparking numerous innovative ideas and strategies for my ongoing projects. I can't wait to put my newfound learning into action and push the boundaries of what's achievable with GIS in my work.
“We need more and more women to be educated across the world, including in GIS. We can’t afford to miss out on the perspectives, the sensitivity, and the experience of half our population! And we desperately need the perspectives of more people of different cultures and ethnic backgrounds, me