I've always hated speaking in front of large crowds.
The thought of standing on a stage with eyes fixed on me, the pressure not to mess up, and the fear of being judged—it was enough to make my heart race. Public speaking was never something I imagined for myself.
And yet, here I am.
It still feels surreal to say that I spoke at the first-ever AWS Community Day Hong Kong. Being part of such a historic milestone and sharing my work on an international stage is an honor I will carry with me forever. What makes it even more meaningful is that I was one of only two women speakers at the event. That fact alone reminds me why representation, visibility, and courage matter so much in tech communities.
This was a stage I never imagined standing on. However, sometimes the most meaningful moments come from doing exactly what scares us the most.
Technology with Purpose: TAK and AWS for Disaster Response
During my session, I shared how Team Awareness Kit (TAK) and Amazon Web Services (AWS) can work together to empower first responders and strengthen disaster response and resilience.
This was my third time presenting my work to a large audience, but my first time doing so on a global stage!
This topic is deeply personal and incredibly timely. In recent months, we've witnessed the devastating impact of super typhoons, massive floods, and earthquakes. These events remind us how critical speed, coordination, and real-time situational awareness are during emergencies.
Being able to share this vision and contribute to conversations that can genuinely help save lives was both humbling and empowering.
The Power of Community Beyond Borders
One of the most unforgettable parts of this experience was the people.
What truly moved me was what happened after I stepped off the stage. Some of the attendees approached me, curious and genuinely interested in the work I'd shared. They asked thoughtful questions, shared their own experiences with disaster response, and expressed excitement about the possibilities of TAK and AWS working together. Those conversations reminded me that the real impact happens not just on stage, but in the connections we build afterward.
I also had the privilege of connecting with AWS Heroes and Community Builders from all over the world. Listening to their stories, learning from their journeys, and discovering our shared passion for technology and community reminded me why I love being part of the AWS ecosystem.
Moments like these remind me that community isn't limited by geography. It's built on shared values, curiosity, and the desire to uplift one another.
Gratitude for the People Who Made This Possible
No journey like this is ever taken alone.
My heartfelt thanks go to the A-Team for their support throughout this journey. Especially to Sir Diwa "Wawi" Del Mundo for his trust, guidance, and belief in me.
I am beyond grateful for the mentorship, experience, and learning I've gained at Apper Cloud Labs. The lessons I've learned there have shaped my growth and made it possible for me to reach this milestone in just over a year in the industry.
I also want to sincerely thank Sir Raphael Francis Quisumbing for encouraging me to apply, for guiding me along the way, and for constantly pushing me to step outside my comfort zone.
To the AWS User Group Hong Kong, thank you for the opportunity to share my work and vision.
Representing Communities That Matter
I'm also incredibly proud to have represented both Apper Cloud Labs and the AWS User Group BuildHers+ Philippines community on an international stage.
Standing there wasn't just about me. It was about showcasing what's possible when communities invest in people, especially women and underrepresented voices in the tech industry.
A Message to Those Who Are Still Afraid
If you're reading this and feeling the same fear I once felt, here's what I want you to know:
If you're hesitating, if you're scared, if you feel like you're not "ready enough"... do it anyway.
Your voice deserves to be heard. Your story is worth sharing. And the community needs what only YOU can bring.
That stage you never imagined? You might find yourself standing on it sooner than you think.
About the Author
Uriel Alonso is a 2x AWS Certified Cloud Applications Specialist at Apper Cloud Labs, where she's part of the Professional Services Engineering team delivering innovative cloud solutions. An alumna of both the AWS re/Start program and the AWS She Builds Mentorship Program, she's passionate about creating opportunities for underrepresented voices in tech.
As one of the AWS User Group Leaders of AWS User Group BuildHers+ Philippines, Uriel works to build inclusive spaces where women and gender-diverse individuals in technology feel welcomed, valued, and empowered to grow their careers.
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