MVP Milestone Series: Celebrating MVPs Achieving their 15 Year Milestone

As we commemorate over 30 years of the Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVP) Program, we want to sincerely acknowledge the efforts of those who have achieved award milestones of 10, 15, 20 years, and more. This journey wouldn't be possible without your support and dedication to community leadership – thank you!

This blog features some MVPs achieving their 15-year milestone. Read on to find out what these MVPs have to say about their experience and time in the program.

What has motivated you to remain committed to the MVP program for the past 15 years?

Ellen Finkelstein M365 MVP (US):” Over the past 15 years, I’ve organized and spoken at countless user groups and conferences, founded organizations, and published courseware and books. What drives me is engaging with the technical community, sharing best practices, and showcasing exciting new developments. The MVP program has recognized my efforts and amplified their impact.”

Akiko Kawai Developer Technologies MVP (Japan):"My 15-year journey as an MVP began with a passion for Silverlight, where I joined a small community in Osaka during its beta phase, sharing insights despite limited resources. As technology evolved—from Silverlight to WinRT and later to C++—my motivation thrived on adapting and leveraging my professional expertise. The MVP program’s true value lies in learning and growing with frontline engineers, expanding my network, and embracing challenges as opportunities for personal and professional growth. I’m deeply grateful for these transformative experiences.”

Junindar Tasripin Developer Technologies MVP (Malaysia):” Being part of the Microsoft MVP community is an amazing experience, offering the chance to connect with a diverse and passionate group of experts who love to share insights and support one another. The community provides access to exclusive events and resources, as well as early previews of new technologies, allowing MVPs to give feedback directly to product teams. It's a unique environment that fosters both learning and collaboration.”

Allan Rocha Business Application MVP (Denmark):” My 15-year commitment to the MVP program stems from a deep passion for Microsoft technologies and the incredible opportunities it provides to learn, grow, and give back. Being an MVP has kept me at the forefront of tech advancements, collaborating with product teams and shaping future tools. The inspiring community of like-minded professionals, where we share knowledge and support each other, continues to drive my motivation and dedication.”

What impact has the MVP community had on your personal and professional growth?

Mei Han Cloud and Datacenter Management MVP (China):” MVP community has profoundly shaped my personal and professional journey, elevating my visibility and trustworthiness while amplifying my impact on others. It has pushed me to stay current with industry trends through rich learning resources and connected me with a network of passionate Microsoft tech experts. This experience continues to fuel my growth, making being an MVP one of my proudest achievements.”

Charley Hanania Data Platform MVP (Switzerland):” The MVP community has enabled me to build meaningful relationships with incredible people, both within Microsoft and globally. These connections have challenged and inspired me, fostering a supportive, family-like environment despite occasional imposter syndrome. Professionally, being an MVP has validated my expertise and opened up collaboration opportunities with MVPs and Microsoft Product Groups, benefiting not just my clients but also my own growth.”

Nicolas Georgeault M365/Business Applications MVP (Canada):” The MVP community has given me more than I ever imagined, both personally and professionally. Despite persistent imposter syndrome, the support from fellow MVPs has helped me overcome doubts and build self-confidence. The experience of engaging directly with Microsoft engineers and contributing to discussions about technology has been invaluable, boosting my skills and credibility. This recognition has opened doors, advanced my career, and provided a profound sense of belonging and validation.”

Steef-Jan Wiggers Microsoft Azure MVP (Germany):” Personally, I conquered my stage fright and can now speak in public. I never imagined speaking in front of hundreds of people. Moreover, I am more social than earlier in my career. Professionally, I became a better technologist, and more doors opened. I could diversify, explore, and experience many verticals and businesses from the inside. Furthermore, my drive to explore allowed me to work at various employers, bringing me the needed challenges.”

What advice would you give to new MVPs just starting their journey?

Karen McCall M365 MVP (Canada):” As a new MVP, take advantage of any opportunity to network with other MVPs in your category and in other MVP categories. I have learned a lot about user interfaces, content development, behind the scenes programming and, most importantly, upcoming trends that allow me to adjust my business model and support of my community of people with disabilities.”

Jean-Sebastien Duchene Security MVP (France):” Looking back, I’d tell new MVPs not to be shy. Even if you’re just starting, your insights matter, and you have valuable contributions to offer. Connect deeply with the MVP community—this network can guide you to incredible opportunities and help you grow. Keep learning, sharing, and building connections; by doing so, you uplift the community, Microsoft, and yourself.”

Leon Tribe Business Application MVP (Australia):” The MVP program has given me an international network of friends who understand what I do day-to-day and have the same passion for the potential of technology in our world. The program has opened doors professionally because of the respect the program has; it immediately establishes my credibility with clients and within my organization.”

Charley Hanania Data Platform MVP (Switzerland):” Remember that being an MVP is not just about technical expertise; it’s also about bringing benefit to communities and individuals alike. Take the time to attend Product Group Interactions and look for ways to support individuals and groups in your local and regional communities. Connect with other MVPs, ask for their tips and learnings from their time in the Program and their community activities. Building these connections and learning from others’ experiences can be incredibly valuable as you start your journey.

How do you balance your MVP activities with your professional & personal commitments?

Paula Januszkiewicz Cloud and Datacenter Management/Security MVP (Poland):” Balancing MVP responsibilities with professional commitments is certainly a challenge, but I've found that the two often complement each other. Many of the insights I gain through the MVP program directly enhance my professional work, and vice versa. I prioritize tasks that add value both to my role and the community, ensuring that my contributions are meaningful. By aligning my professional objectives with my MVP responsibilities, I’m able to make the most of the experience without compromising my commitments.”

Becky Bertram M365 MVP (US):” As a business owner, speaking at conference not only helps me meet my MVP commitments, but it’s also a great opportunity to meet prospective clients as well as other technologists whom I can potentially partner with. Additionally, letting my clients know about my speaking engagements is one way I can remind my clients that I am a relevant thought leader. As such, the best thing I can do is to see my professional commitment as a business owner as being compatible with my MVP activities and not seeing them as competing responsibilities.”

Tetsuro Takao Developer Technologies MVP (Japan):” I am currently engaged in Research &Development like work, which involves exploring architectural thinking, patterns, and anti-patterns across various technologies. Through this, I've gained unique insights into how Microsoft technologies excel and stand out compared to others, fueling my drive to share this knowledge with the community. This pursuit of understanding and explaining these advantages inspires continuous self-learning, creating a rewarding cycle between my work and MVP activities.

Allan Rocha Business Application MVP (Denmark):” Balancing MVP responsibilities with professional commitments requires strategic time management and prioritization. I align MVP activities with my professional goals, using work experiences to create content and engage with the community. Finding synergies between my role as Director of Business Applications and my MVP work is key, and I'm grateful for Fellowmind’s support in making this possible. Staying organized and focused on the impact I want to achieve helps me manage both effectively.”

Thank you, MVPs!

Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences, and congratulations once more on reaching this 15-year milestone. If you are interested in becoming a Microsoft MVP, please visit our website to learn more.