Karen has deep roots in San Francisco, so it is no wonder she has taken an active interest in its many neighborhoods and small businesses, fostering community there in her work on Google Maps and off. She has been a groundbreaker for years, first as the first female Local Guides Connect Moderator, then by uplifting Asian communities and Asian-owned businesses through her #LocalGuidesSupportAsiansBusinesses challenge.

A shaping influence on Karen's life was her uncle, who became a quadripalegic at a young age and has since passed away. Karen grew up seeking out restaurants with her family that would accommodate him. As a Local Guide, she found it "second nature" to look for and update accessibility-related information. Also a mother, Karen also calls out kid-friendly restaurants and parks as well as pet-friendly spots. She sees a correlation between parental needs and finding accessible spots for her uncle. "I feel like being a Local Guide [is] basically helping your community. There's just so much out there that we all can contribute in our own little unique, weird way."

In 2021, that sense of community continues to be a central motivator as Karen co-hosts virtual meet-ups like Clean the World, Lists for Google Maps, and Local Guides on Social Media. "Because of the pandemic, I learned a new skill," Karen explained. "During the pandemic, I hosted 17 virtual Local Guides meet-ups with close to 400 Local Guides attending from around the world. We share our interests and passions, and hopefully develop friendships and working partnerships. There's nothing like it."

Want to learn more about this incredible Local Guide? Check out her contributions on Google Maps and follow her profile on Connect.