How Three Years in the AWS Community Led Me to the Stage
Three years ago, I walked into AWS Community Day Philippines 2023 as an attendee—curious, eager to learn, and inspired by the stories of builders and innovators around me. Fast forward to 2025, and I found myself standing on that same stage, microphone in hand, sharing my own story about using technology to save lives during disasters.
This is the story of that journey—and why I believe the tech community has the power to transform not just careers, but lives.
2023: The Beginning
It started with a simple decision: to show up.
AWS Community Day Philippines 2023 was my first-ever AWS community event. Here's the truth: I walked in knowing almost nothing about AWS or cloud computing. I was completely new to this world, unsure if I even belonged there, and honestly a bit intimidated by all the technical conversations happening around me.
I was surrounded by passionate developers, cloud architects, and innovators who spoke about their projects with such energy and purpose. What struck me most wasn't just their technical expertise. People took the time to explain concepts, answer questions, and encourage beginners like me.
The sessions weren't just about technology. They were about solving real problems, building meaningful solutions, and empowering others along the way. I saw a community that welcomed learning, embraced curiosity, and celebrated growth at every level.
That day, I didn't just discover AWS—I discovered what a true tech community feels like. A place where you can be a beginner, ask questions, and still belong.
It was also the first time I met many of the people who would later become my collaborators, mentors, and friends—individuals I now actively work and build with in the AWS community.
You don't need to be an expert to start. Sometimes, the most important step is simply showing up with curiosity and an open mind—you never know where it might lead.
2024: Stepping Up
In 2024, I returned to AWS Community Day Philippines, not as an attendee this time, but as a community partner and exhibitor, representing AWS User Group BuildHers+ Philippines, a community that empowers women and underrepresented groups in tech.
At that point, Joanne and I had just been newly appointed as the leads of AWS User Group BuildHers+ Philippines, and it was just the two of us. We were still figuring things out, learning as we went, and finding our rhythm as community leaders. It was both exciting and overwhelming, but we showed up with purpose, determined to represent BuildHers+ and the values it stood for.
Our booth became more than just a space; it became a hub for meaningful conversations. We met students exploring the cloud for the first time, professionals transitioning into tech, and advocates pushing for inclusivity in the industry.
Through those moments, I saw firsthand how representation truly matters. When people see others who look like them, speak like them, or share their story, they begin to believe that they, too, have a place in tech.
Growth happens when you step outside your comfort zone. Every small contribution can spark change in ways you might not even realize.
2025: Taking the Stage
And then came 2025, the year I took the stage.
This time, I wasn't in the audience. I was up front, sharing my own story through my session, "Disaster and Emergency Response with TAK and AWS."
My talk was inspired by a reality close to home. Living in the Philippines means facing typhoons, earthquakes, floods, and other natural disasters regularly. In those moments, effective communication can mean the difference between life and death.
As I shared during my talk:
"Disasters are natural and inevitable. Our capability to communicate during calamities can bring a significant impact to those who are responding and to the affected communities."
Through TAK (Team Awareness Kit) integrated with AWS, we explored how real-time coordination helps first responders, government agencies, and volunteers share vital information, even when traditional communication networks fail.
But beyond the technology, my message was simple: technology should serve humanity. It's not enough to build innovative systems—we must build ones that save lives, empower communities, and foster resilience.
Standing on that stage was surreal. It wasn't just about presenting a technical topic; it was about sharing a message of purpose. It was proof that the girl who once sat quietly in the audience now had a voice and that her story mattered.
Your unique experiences are your strength. Don't be afraid to share them—because your story might just be the one that inspires someone else to start theirs.
What the AWS Community Taught Me
Looking back, these three years have been nothing short of transformative. Here's what I've learned along the way:
1. Community Accelerates Growth
Every mentor, peer, and organizer who believed in me helped shape the person I am today. The AWS community invests in people, and that investment changes lives.
2. Representation Opens Doors
Seeing women and underrepresented groups on stage matters. It tells others, "You can do this too." Representation isn't just symbolic; it's empowering and necessary.
3. Purpose Drives Innovation
The most meaningful technology solves real problems. For me, it's about building solutions that help communities prepare for and recover from disasters.
4. Your Journey Inspires Others
Sharing your story isn't about spotlighting yourself; it's about lighting the way for those still finding their path. The seat you take in the audience today could be the stage you stand on tomorrow.
To Anyone Starting Their Tech Journey
If you're wondering whether you belong in tech, or if you're unsure where to start—you do belong, and the best time to start is now.
Here's my advice:
- Show up. Attend events, ask questions, and learn from others.
- Contribute. You don't need to be an expert to make an impact.
- Stay curious. Keep learning, building, and exploring.
- Find your purpose. Technology is just a tool—what matters is the change you want to create.
- Lift others up. When you grow, help others rise with you.
Final Thoughts
From attendee to speaker, this journey has been about more than cloud computing—it's been about connection, courage, and community.
The AWS community gave me space to grow. The AWS User Group BuildHers+ Philippines amplified my voice. And now, I hope to do the same for others—to help more people see that they, too, belong in tech.
Here's to building technology that doesn't just innovate but saves lives, empowers communities, and truly serves humanity.
About the Author
Uriel Alonso is a Cloud Applications Specialist at Apper Cloud Labs and a key member of the Professional Services Engineering team that delivers innovative cloud solutions. She is an alumna of the AWS re/Start program and a graduate of the AWS She Builds Mentorship Program, both of which helped shape her journey into the cloud industry.
Passionate about increasing representation in tech, Uriel serves as one of the Community Leaders of AWS User Group BuildHers+ Philippines, where she works to create inclusive spaces and opportunities for women and gender-diverse individuals in the technology industry.
Beyond her professional and advocacy work, she actively fosters a supportive and inclusive tech community, creating environments where individuals feel not only welcomed but truly empowered, valued, and inspired to grow their careers in technology.
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