[Inspire Stage] The Compound Interest of Community
Conference Sessions

[Inspire Stage] The Compound Interest of Community

Level

SPEAKERS

Shannon Lindsay

Microsoft

Paulo Grijó

United Hub Digital Solutions

ABOUT THE SESSION

What if becoming an expert isn’t about talent, luck, or knowing the right people? What if it’s simply the result of showing up, one small step at a time?

In this candid and inspiring session, Power BI Dataviz World Champion Paulo Grijo and Microsoft Fabric PM Shannon Lindsay share their very different journeys from newcomers to recognized leaders in the data community. Paulo turned curiosity, certifications, and community participation into a world championship that transformed his career. Shannon discovered that the relationships, opportunities, and confidence she gained through community would ultimately shape her own path and help thousands of others do the same.

Through personal stories, hard-earned lessons, and a few vulnerable moments, you’ll see how seemingly small actions compound over time into expertise, opportunity, and impact. Whether you’re just starting out or wondering what’s next, you’ll leave with a simple but powerful belief: The experts you admire started exactly where you are. The next small step you take could change everything.