How I Became an AWS Community Builder: My Journey & Insights

Becoming an AWS Community Builder is a significant achievement. The name itself—"Builder"—carries weight, responsibility, and a commitment to growth, both personal and communal. This program attracts applicants from all over the world, and the seats are limited. However, with the right approach, dedication, and persistence, success is within reach.

I still remember the day I received the email:

"Hi there, you’ve made it... you’re an AWS Community Builder. Congratulations! 🙌"

That moment was the result of years of effort, learning, and engagement in the AWS community.

About the AWS Community Builders Program

AWS Community Builders is an exclusive program designed to support and recognize AWS enthusiasts who actively contribute to the community through knowledge-sharing and engagement. The program has a yearly application cycle, and you can sign up for the waiting list here:

AWS Community Builders Program - Add your name to the waitlist

If you’re aspiring to become a Community Builder, don’t be discouraged if you don’t get selected on your first attempt. Many successful builders, including myself, faced rejections before finally making it.

My Journey to Becoming an AWS Community Builder

2021 - 2022: The Beginning

My cloud journey started in 2021 when I took my first role as a Cloud Engineer Trainee. I focused on small daily tasks, hands-on implementation of AWS services, and continuous learning. Over time, I earned my AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and later the AWS Solutions Architect certification.

2023 - 2024: Community Engagement & Blogging

Being from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, I actively joined and volunteered at AWS Community Ahmedabad. Engaging with the community was a game-changer for me. I started writing blogs on AWS services, daily tasks, and troubleshooting experiences. I firmly believe that knowledge grows when shared, so I committed to continuous learning and giving back.

Facing Rejections & Staying Motivated

I applied for the AWS Community Builders program twice and was rejected both times. However, I didn't let it discourage me. Instead, I improved my contributions, expanded my network, and attended events like AWS Community Days, Meetups, AWS Summits, and Online Webinars. These experiences helped me gain deeper insights and connect with experienced professionals.

2025: Success at Last!

On my third attempt, I finally got the acceptance email. This moment reaffirmed my belief in persistence and consistent efforts.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring AWS Community Builders

• ✅ Believe in yourself – Confidence and perseverance are crucial.
• ✅ Trust the selection team – They review thousands of applications to select the most deserving candidates.
• ✅ Seek feedback & network – Meet new people, learn from them, and improve your application.
• ✅ Engage in the community – Attend AWS events, contribute to discussions, and share your knowledge.
• ✅ Hard work, dedication, and faith – Success requires continuous learning, effort, and patience.

Showcasing Your Skills

Beyond the AWS Community Builders program, there are several platforms where you can showcase your AWS expertise:

• YouTube – Create video tutorials or live demos.
• GitHub – Share your projects, automation scripts, or solutions.
• Medium / Dev.to / Hashnode – Write blogs on AWS services and your experiences.
• Personal Website – Build your own platform to share knowledge and projects.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an AWS Community Builder is not just about earning a title; it's about making an impact. The journey requires dedication, consistency, and a passion for learning and sharing. Even if you face rejections, never stop contributing. The day will come when you receive that congratulatory email, just like I did!

Are you aspiring to be an AWS Community Builder? Feel free to connect with me and let’s grow together!

Happy learning!