Add Ambassador Program 2.0 blog post (linkerd#1881)

Signed-off-by: Ivan Porta <[email protected]>

linkerd.io/content/blog/2024/1216-ambassador-program/index.md

@@ -0,0 +1,92 @@
+---
+date: 2024-12-16T00:00:00Z
+title: |-
+  Announcing The Linkerd Ambassador Program 2.0: Join the Mission for Simplicity
+slug: ambassador-program
+keywords: [community]
+params:
+  author: catherine
+  showCover: true
+images: [social.jpg] # Open graph image
+---
+
+We’re excited to announce the
+[**Linkerd Ambassador Program 2.0**](/community/ambassadors-apply/)! This
+revamped program builds on everything that made the original a success, with
+even more ways for you to get involved, make an impact, and help shape the
+future of the Linkerd community. Whether you're an original supporter or new to
+the Linkerd family, the new Ambassador Program is packed with enhanced perks,
+expanded opportunities, and fresh ways to connect and collaborate. If you're
+ready to stand up for simplicity and lead the charge, this is your chance!
+
+In a world where Kubernetes complexity has become the norm, **Linkerd stands
+apart**. We’ve always championed simplicity—not as a compromise, but as a _core
+value_. Now, we’re inviting YOU to be a part of this mission.
+
+The brand-new **Linkerd Ambassador Program** is your chance to join a community
+of like-minded champions who believe in the power of simplicity, who reject
+unnecessary complexity, and who want to make Kubernetes better for everyone.
+
+Are you ready to stand up for simplicity and help spread the word? Let’s do this
+together.
+
+## Who Is This Program For?
+
+The Linkerd Ambassador Program is designed for those who believe in the
+importance of keeping it simple in an already overly complex cloud native
+ecosystem. If you:
+
+- Believe that Kubernetes doesn’t have to be daunting,
+- Are passionate about educating others,
+- Want to challenge the status quo and advocate for better, developer-friendly
+  platforms, this program is for you.
+
+Whether you’re a seasoned Linkerd expert or someone who’s just starting out but
+feels strongly about Linkerd’s mission, you’ll find a place here.
+
+## What Do Linkerd Ambassadors Do?
+
+Linkerd Ambassadors are the voice of our community, spreading the message of
+simplicity and empowering others to embrace it. Every Ambassador contributes in
+their own way:
+
+- **Educate:** Give talks, write blog posts, create videos, host meetups, and
+  answer questions in the Linkerd Slack.
+- **Foster Collaboration:** Build strong relationships and encourage
+  contributions.
+- **Grow the Community:** Onboard new users and help them understand the power
+  of Linkerd.
+- **Provide Feedback:** Share community insights and suggestions with the
+  maintainers to keep improving Linkerd.
+- **Promote Globally:** Amplify Linkerd’s message to a wider audience.
+
+No matter your style—whether you prefer creating content, mentoring newcomers,
+or leading local meetups—there’s a way for you to make an impact.
+
+## Why Become a Linkerd Ambassador?
+
+We know you’re not doing it for the swag (but we have that, too!). Becoming a
+Linkerd Ambassador comes with an array of perks:
+
+- **Exclusive Swag:** Get custom Linkerd Ambassador gear.
+- **Recognition:** Earn your badge on LinkedIn, be featured on the Linkerd
+  Ambassador page, and get a spotlight on our website.
+- **Events:** Enjoy special Ambassador gatherings at KubeCon and beyond.
+- **Support:** Access funding, training, and resources for your
+  initiatives—whether it’s hosting workshops, speaking at events, or creating
+  content.
+- **Networking:** Join regular Ambassador-only meetings, connect with other
+  cloud-native experts, and build lasting relationships.
+
+Most importantly, you’ll be at the heart of the Linkerd mission, helping to
+shape the future of Kubernetes platforms.
+
+## Ready to Make an Impact?
+
+If you’re passionate about simplicity, Linkerd, and community, we want to hear
+from you. This is your chance to stand out, give back, and be part of something
+transformative.
+
+[**Apply now!**](/community/ambassadors-apply/) Spots are limited, and we can’t
+wait to see what you’ll bring to the Linkerd community. Together, let’s make
+simplicity the standard for Kubernetes.