10 Years of YPN and My Journey as a Community Ambassador

Georgios-NektariosTselos · ‎07-10-2025

Figure 1: ESRI YPN 10 YEARSAs the Esri User Conference 2025 approaches and the Esri Young Professionals Network (YPN) celebrates ten years of innovation and global impact, I felt compelled to reflect on my journey as a YPN Community Ambassador and share how this community has transformed my perspective and professional development within the GIS field. I assumed this role about a year ago, and since then, I have experienced first-hand the value of being part of such a supportive, vibrant, and forward-thinking network.

Unlocking Opportunities in GIS Through the YPN

Figure 2: ESRI Webinars

First of all, the most noticeable point is that, the individuals leading YPN foster an environment ofcollaboration and growth, providing continuous access to resources, opportunities, and knowledge that might otherwise be inaccessible—especially in regions where GIS engagement is still emerging. Through webinars, MOOCs, workshops, and key updates about the field, the YPN has become a critical channel for learning and staying current. Many times, I have joined webinars or engaged in events that I would never have discovered on my own. Even familiar topics are revisited through diverse and innovative lenses that continue to broaden my understanding and fuel my enthusiasm for the profession.

What truly sets YPN apart is its ability to empower early-career professionals and students by offering practical tools and real-world guidance. One pivotal moment for me was coming across a YPN post emphasizing the importance of building a GIS portfolio. That article sparked my initiative to create one using ArcGIS StoryMaps, which has since become an essential asset in how I present myself and my work. The Story Map enables you to showcase your work in real time, providing a dynamic view that ranges from static maps to advanced web GIS applications. It is through experiences like this that I realized how critical this network is—not only as a learning platform but also as a catalyst for professional visibility and confidence.

The Power of YPN: Connecting You to the GIS World

Something I believe all GIS professionals—especially those just entering the field—should understand is that YPN consistently delivers timely, relevant, and high-quality information about global opportunities in GIS. Through YPN, I discovered programs and certifications that I would likely have never encountered otherwise: GISP, the Esri Student Assistantship, and the GPN Mentoring Network. These are not only beneficial but potentially career-defining initiatives.

Esri Student Assistantship Program

Take the Esri Student Assistantship Program, for example. Before YPN, I did not know that students could apply to volunteer their time to work at major Esri conferences, including:

Federal GIS Conference
Developer Summit
Energy Resources GIS Conference
User Conference

as part of the assistantship program. Participating in such events, especially from the inside, is a truly transformative opportunity for any young professional.

Figure 3:Esri Student Assistantship Program

GISP Certification (Geographic Information Systems Professional)

Figure 4: GISP

Another equally important discovery was the GISP (Geographic Information

Systems Professional) certification, awarded by the GIS Certification Institute (GISCI). This credential is globally recognized and provides professionals with a structured way to demonstrate expertise, based on both academic qualifications and work experience. To earn the certification:

Figure 5:What is the GISP

Personally, I have not taken the certification yet, but I am in the process of preparing, thanks to YPN introducing me to it in the first place.

GPN (Geospatial Network Mentoring)

The third program I discovered through YPN was the GPN Mentoring Network, which offers mentorship opportunities for early-career professionals by connecting them with seasoned GIS experts from across the globe. Through the GPN, mentees can receive support in a wide range of areas—such as:

Figure6: GPN Mentoring Network Opportunities

This initiative is a powerful example of how structured mentorship can offer clarity and direction in an otherwise complex and ever-evolving professional landscape.

All these opportunities, and many more, have one thing in common: I would not have discovered them without the YPN community. Being part of this network—especially from a country where such resources and exposure are not easily accessible—has made all the difference. It has not only helped me develop as a GIS professional but has also connected me with a global community of like-minded individuals committed to knowledge-sharing and mutual support.

From Greece to the Global Stage: Advancing in GIS Through YPN

For context, my name is Georgios-Nektarios Tselos. I recently graduated from the Department of Geography at Harokopio University of Athens, and I am currently working in the field of GIS and remote sensing as a Research Assistant. Over the past year, I have immersed myself in this field through academic studies, community involvement, and personal projects—all significantly shaped by my engagement with YPN. In fact, my own ArcGIS StoryMaps portfolio, which I mentioned above, was inspired and developed after seeing a related post from the YPN community. The biggest change I have experienced is the confidence to share my work, believe in my potential, and pursue a career at the international level. I have formed relationships that have not only enriched my technical perspective but have also helped me grow as a person.

Figure 7: My Portfolio by ArcGIS Story Map

A Decade of Innovation: Looking Ahead with YPN

As YPN celebrates its 10th anniversary, I want to express my gratitude and admiration for everything it represents. I sincerely hope it continues to inspire, support, and guide emerging GIS professionals for many years to come. I hope to attend the Esri User Conference 2026 as a Student Assistant, to be part of this milestone celebration in person.

In conclusion, I would like to sincerely thank some of the YPN Advisory Board members @RosemaryBoone, @Logan_Stevens , and @RaquelPerez for their exceptional, consistent, and dedicated work. Their commitment and professionalism have truly made a lasting impact, and it is inspiring to witness the care and excellence they bring to everything they do.

I encourage every young professional in the geospatial field to engage with YPN—whether through LinkedIn or other community platforms, the knowledge, support, and global perspective it offers are truly unmatched. I am confident the next decade will bring even more powerful stories of inspiration, collaboration, and growth—and I am excited to be part of that journey, every step of the way.

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