This is a 70-minute session blending storytelling, real-world experience, and light demos, sharing the lessons I learned on the long, non-traditional path to becoming a Microsoft MVP.

I was first nominated for Microsoft MVP in 2022. I applied immediately and just as quickly learned that I had gone about almost everything the wrong way. I wasn’t selected, but the experience was eye-opening and became the foundation for what came next.

In 2024, I made a deliberate decision to pursue the MVP award again. This time with focus, consistency, and a much clearer understanding of what meaningful community impact actually looks like. In 2025, I was nominated once more and awarded Microsoft MVP for Outlook.

I’m excited to share my journey; including the missteps, course corrections, and practical steps I took to help others understand what it really takes to earn an MVP award and how to approach the process with intention and confidence.