I just returned from AWS re:Invent in Las Vegas, and I have to say, it was phenomenal. The energy, the learning, the people… it all came together to create an experience I’ll never forget.

One of the biggest highlights was finally meeting Carlie Marvel, Senior Content Marketing Manager at AWS Developer Relations. Carlie is the person who first reached out to me, helped me tell my story from retail into tech and opened the door to what has become a life-changing journey. We had talked many times on Zoom, but meeting in person at the Community Hub was something truly special.

We also got to hang out with Demario Bell, Senior Community Manager in North America, who’s doing incredible work building community and elevating voices in tech. It was just great vibes all around real conversations, genuine connection, and so much inspiration.

Community, Connection & Cloud

This year’s re:Invent was about more than just tech, it was about people. I got to spend quality time with my colleagues, people I work with every day but rarely get to be around in person. We shared meals, attended sessions together, walked the expo floor, and soaked in every keynote and breakout.

The energy during the keynotes by Dr. Swami and Matt Garman was electric. The announcement around Bedrock Agents and AI capabilities left the entire room buzzing. People who’ve been coming to re:Invent for nearly a decade kept saying the same thing: “This year felt different in the best way.” There was a new kind of confidence and clarity around the future of AI and the power of community.

Highlights That Will Stay With Me

Meeting Carlie Marvel in person after so many Zooms. Great convos with Demario Bell and other inspiring community leaders. Walking the expo, connecting with awesome teams from Databricks, Splunk, and more. Learning side by side with my team, growing together every step of the way. Soaking up the Vegas energy, AWS style.

Grateful. Inspired. Ready for What’s Next.

AWS re:Invent 2025 wasn’t just an event, it was a turning point. I left feeling seen, supported, and truly part of something bigger.

Thank you, Will Horn. Thank you, Carlie. Thank you, Demario. Thank you, AWS. Here’s to continuing the journey and building what’s next.