
Stories behind the innovation

Giving fonts a purpose – across culture and ability
As a member of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, Greg, knows the importance of preserving the emotion and expression of native languages. As Principal Software Engineering Manager for Microsoft, he aims to work with fonts and characters to further protect and archive sacred languages in the digital landscape. 1 of 19

Growing day by day
After her family experienced bankruptcy when she was young, Gabriela learned how to fix things the only way she knew how — through community. Now she’s set on driving growth bit by bit every day. 2 of 19

Freedom in self-expression
Emerging from a journey of self-discovery and embracing their nonbinary identity, C, senior business administrator at Microsoft, embodies resilience. Drawing from their Puerto Rican heritage and love for self-expression, C blends humor with originality and compassion in their role, redefining norms through unique understanding. 3 of 19

“You are enough. You wouldn’t be here if someone here didn’t think you were incredible.”
Raised with values rooted in her Japanese heritage, Megumi found solace in community during deployments while in the military. Now as a managing editor of customer storytelling at Microsoft, she empowers global voices, advocating for authenticity and reminding others of their inherent worth. 4 of 19

Utilizing your superpower
Armed with what he calls “super empathy,” Joao, principal customer reliability engineer at Microsoft, harnesses inclusivity as his strength. As a gay man and a Latino, he activates allyship in the workplace, ensuring all voices are heard. His actions have not only brought in new talent but also propelled inclusivity forward. 5 of 19

Near and dear
Keepsakes that get passed through generations of a connected family can unlock hidden characteristics of our colleagues. Cynthia presents us with some of hers that showcase her mom’s creativity and how she encourages herself to fly. 6 of 19

“Your uniqueness makes you who you are.”
Inspired by her early love for fantasy and gaming, Christina champions diversity and representation in the gaming industry, explaining the accuracy of portrayals and the importance of players seeing themselves in the virtual worlds they love. 7 of 19

Art of cherishing memories
Sometimes our possessions remind us of our favorite places or home. Athena shares the items that take her back to Taiwan, Prague, and New York. 8 of 19

When innovation and passion collide
Jerome discusses the influence of his father’s guidance, his passion for art and music, and his innovative approach to driving positive change and representation in his professional sphere. 9 of 19

“At the end of the day, I think that’s what people want: to be heard.”
Guided by a gift for listening and a commitment to motherhood, Erin shares how she navigated post-maternity challenges and pioneered support networks for parents in the workplace by blending her passion and leadership to foster inclusive environments. 10 of 19

Melissa’s treasures of heritage and achievement
Our possessions showcase the things that really matter to us. Melissa unveils the artifacts that encapsulate her heritage, achievements, and bonds that shape her. Tell us about the artifacts that weave the fabric of your story. 11 of 19

Embrace your identity, embrace life
Kimberly Marreros Chuco discusses embracing one’s unique identity and learning from challenges, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and accepting mistakes as part of growth, inspired by her experiences moving from an Andean mining town.
Featured Artist: Tai Silva
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Ashley Innovator’s Inventory and the big plans she’s made
Our personal treasures hold the stories of who we are. Ashley shares the tangible symbols of her values and journey. What mementos narrate your life’s chapters? 14 of 19

This is my sazón
Ivelisse is a user experience designer who uses patience and her family to combat her own self-doubt. 15 of 19

Nurturing inner peace
When Ethan started at Microsoft, he prioritized money over his wellbeing. Twelve years later, the senior customer success account manager and D&I storytelling host knows that the only way to truly take care of others is to first take care of yourself. Discover his story of gratitude and growth. 16 of 19

Master of messiness
As a mom and a tech leader, Elaine has learned to embrace the chaos and put her “octopus mind” to work in service of innovation, at work and at home. 17 of 19

What leaders look like
Shrivaths worried that coworkers would be reluctant to follow a leader who had disabilities. Instead, he discovered that his experiences made him a stronger, more empathetic manager. 18 of 19

Experiencing both sides
As a child, Ana crossed between Juárez, Mexico , and El Paso, Texas, every day to go to school. Learning how to live, communicate, and connect in both cultures has made her a better designer, mentor, and innovator. 19 of 19

“If there's a family issue…you have
enough grace to be able to take care of it.”
enough grace to be able to take care of it.”
Communities

Who’s your avatar, LGBTQIA+ edition
Microsoft’s LGBTQIA+ communities are showing up and showing out, one avatar at a time—because identity is limitless, and so is Pride.
True or false, LGBTQIA+ edition
LGBTQIA+ voices share their takes on community facts and personal opinions. Can you guess the answers?
The Dish Dish Family Edition
This Family Month, The Code of Us is highlighting what Microsoft employees are cooking up in their family kitchens as they ‘dish’ on their favorite dishes.
True or False Family Edition
The Code of Us puts Microsoft employees to the test in a game of True or False – Family Edition.
The Code of Us: Codes in Common
Discover the shared experiences of two Microsoft employees as they discuss their unique perspectives of being women in tech.
The Code of Us: Roundtable Talk
Women at Microsoft reflect on their unique experiences and impact in the tech industry.
Speak My Language – Military Edition
Watch as Microsoft employees try to guess the meanings of each other’s military jargon for National Military Appreciation Month!