Charting New Paths: Insights from SotM Asia 2024

This year, I had the opportunity to attend State of the Map Asia (SotM Asia 2024) in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. While I had previously attended the SotM Global conference, SotM Asia provided a unique and inspiring experience that deepened my engagement with the OpenStreetMap (OSM) community. The conference brought together passionate mappers from all over, each contributing their expertise to solve real-world problems using geospatial data.

As a speaker at SotM Asia, I shared insights on how OSM is being used to improve accessibility to essential services, particularly for women in marginalized communities. The conversations that followed were both thought-provoking and affirming, showing how mapping can be a powerful tool for addressing gender-specific issues.

The workshops and sessions at the conference were incredibly valuable. I gained new perspectives on how emerging technologies are transforming mapping and how they can be applied to address complex challenges. These experiences inspired me to think creatively about the tools and methods I can incorporate into my own work, particularly in my ongoing projects.

Beyond the sessions and workshops, the conference was an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. From casual conversations over coffee to the camaraderie at the OM GURU dinner, I was reminded of the importance of community in the open mapping movement. The connections made here will continue to inspire and motivate me as I work on future mapping projects.

Reflecting on SotM Asia 2024, I am deeply inspired to continue my work in the OSM community and beyond. The event reaffirmed the transformative potential of mapping and reinforced my belief in its power to create a more connected, resilient world. I look forward to carrying these lessons into my ongoing work, including the WASH initiative in Birendranagar.

Acknowledgments

First and foremost, I would like to thank Mikko Tamura, Honey Grace Fombuena and Harry Mahardhika Machmud for organizing the unforgettable OM GURU dinner. Their efforts provided a rare opportunity to connect with mentors and leaders who have played a pivotal role in shaping the open mapping movement.

I also want to express my deep gratitude to my teammate, Arun Kumar Bhomi, for his unwavering support and contributions to our project. His dedication and encouragement were instrumental throughout our journey.

I am grateful to Nodi, Khan Mohammad Ibtehal, and Azhar and everyone who shared this incredible journey with us.. Their kindness, generosity, and unwavering support went above and beyond, making my time in Bangladesh unforgettable. From ensuring we had everything we needed to offering their warmth and hospitality, they truly made us feel at home. Their care and attention to every detail were unmatched, and I will forever cherish their friendship and the incredible memories we shared.

Finally, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the organizers of SotM Asia 2024 for putting together such a well-executed and inspiring event. Their dedication and vision made this experience possible, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of this remarkable gathering.