Global Growth for PASS

I have had a few very productive conversations recently with PASS members and SQL Community members from around the globe. How can PASS be relevant outside the US/Canada region?

The EMEA region (Europe, Middle East and Africa) has a long history of well established user groups in some areas. PASS comes strolling by and wants to partner with these groups in an effort to grow community and provide resources. What is the value proposition for an established group? I see these challenges and have enjoyed conversations regarding what works and what does not. What PASS must realize is that what works for one region or geographic location might not provide the same success in others. I'm looking forward to building stronger relationships here and helping provide solutions where needed.

Contrast this with SQL Community growth in LATAM over the past several years. Under the PASS umbrella, many amazing volunteers have stepped up and started up local Chapters, hosted SQL Saturdays and worked as Regional Mentors and Board Advisors for their community. I am very excited to see PASS welcoming the first Director at Large from the LATAM region to the Board this term!

PASS cannot rest on these laurels for LATAM region, however. Support and encouragement must continue in order to grow additional leadership and continue outreach into under-served areas. I am hopeful to continue working on the Board and will work with volunteers to ensure the success of the region as a member of the Global Growth Committee. My goal is to work toward more international representation on the Board and at the regional levels while also providing support for local community efforts.

I don't want to discount activity in other regions, however. PASS has very active communities in both the Pacific (Australia, New Zealand for example) as well as thriving groups in China and India. I have worked to make sure that Virtual Chapters are providing content at hours equally convenient to members in those regions. While there has been some success, more work still needs to be done. I am very much looking forward to the growth and partnerships forthcoming in these next few months!

Elections are upon us! I'm excited to see Eduardo Castro on the ticket for LATAM and I hope to enjoy the honor of working with him and the rest of the Board for another term.

If you are so inclined, your support is greatly appreciated when you cast your ballot!