For Ahmed Khalaf, a newer leader for the Montreal VMUG, attending his first VMUG Connect was a game-changer. While large-scale industry conferences have their place, the real magic of Connect lay in the tight-knit, face-to-face environment where genuine relationships were built and fresh knowledge was shared in real time.
One of the biggest highlights for Ahmed was getting early access to the new VCF 9.1 content right after launch.
"The most impactful part for me was getting the VCF 9.1 content," Ahmed shared. "That was unexpected that we get that here right after launch, and we have that fresh information that we only get at VMUGs... It’s a big deal and we have the fresh news."
Beyond the technical insights, the trip proved to be a major personal milestone when Ahmed decided on a whim to take a certification exam. Initially hesitant about testing for the latest version, he saw the opportunity at Connect and jumped in.
"I sat for a certification and passed. That is so valuable! ...When I get back, we have a meeting planned and I will be sharing about my experience with the exam. Because I wasn’t planning to take the exam at first, because I thought maybe I could only pass a VCF 5. But I saw that I had an opportunity to take VCF 9, and I knew I had to. No one in my community knows about it, so I get to bring that back."
For a newer leader, meeting fellow leaders and partners from across Canada in person for the first time provided fresh perspective and motivation. Connecting with neighboring chapters sparked new ideas for local collaboration, guest speaking across regions, and even strategies for recruiting new leadership within his own Montreal community.
When comparing the experience to massive events like VMware Explore, Ahmed pointed out the unique value that a Connect event provided: accessibility. At Connect, attendees could walk up and speak directly to session speakers, connect deeply with peers, and access benefits like certification opportunities through VMUG Advantage.
Ahmed left Connect energized to bring VCF 9.1 insights, certification inspiration, and new collaborative ideas back home to Montreal. "This was the first time for me to be connected with Leaders in person, and this is refreshing to be with them," Ahmed said. "Gives me more motivation and power to go and make an impact."
For those looking to stay connected, level up their skills, and learn directly from peers across the industry, VMUG offers a place to do just that. Ahmed’s experience offers a look at what that kind of connection can lead to.
Don't miss out on the final stop of the series—join us for VMUG Connect Orlando to experience these connections, certifications, and exclusive content for yourself!
Thank you to Ahmed for sharing his experience and for his leadership within the VMUG community in Montreal.
