A Historic Moment: Becoming the First Tableau Visionary from the Nordics
Last week, something truly extraordinary happened. The announcement of the 2025 Tableau Visionaries was made, and for the first time in history, a Nordic name appeared on that prestigious list—mine!
Link to Tableau Visionaries 2025
Out of just 46 people worldwide, I was not only nominated (for the third year in a row) but also selected for this incredible honor. When I received that email a few days before the public announcement, I must admit—there was some serious celebrating! For those who read my 2024 recap in on of my previous posts, you know how hard I’ve worked, collaborating with my fellow DataFam, sharing knowledge, and contributing wherever I could. To now be recognized as a Tableau Visionary is truly humbling, and I am deeply grateful for this honor.
The Journey to Visionary
My journey to this moment has been one filled with passion, community, and relentless dedication to data visualization and analytics. Over the years, I have been privileged to contribute to the Tableau community—not only in Norway but across the globe. Whether it’s organizing user groups, speaking on international stages from Las Vegas to London, or collaborating through programs like the Tableau Buddy Sandbox, my goal has always been to give back to a community that has given me so much.
I’ve spent countless hours sharing knowledge, crafting best practices, and championing a culture of collaboration and innovation within the DataFam. To now stand among the Visionaries—people I have long admired and learned from—is both surreal and exhilarating.
Unforgettable Words from My DataFam
The response from the community was overwhelming. To read the heartfelt congratulations and kind words from friends and peers around the world made this milestone even more special. Here are just a few that truly touched my heart:
- “You really deserve it to be a visionary. You are the only human being who is capable of Tableausynthesis—you inhale data and exhale Tableau. 🤓” – Matthias Gieger
- “Tore, I used to think you were already a visionary. Wow, congratulations! So deserving!” – Ojoswi Basu
- “Thank you!!! Congrats to you too, Tore!!! I was so stoked seeing you on that list, especially after all of your DataFam Europe work!!!!! 🥳🥳🥳” – Emily Anne De Pauda
- “It’s long overdue, Tore! You deserve it!” – Sarah Bartlett
- “Dude you’re everything the program is meant to be. Congratulations” – Zach Bowders
- “Hey Tore! Congrats on being named a Tableau Visionary! It’s a huge honor and you deserve it! Welcome to the cohort!” – Eric Balash
- “Congratulations, Tore! Well-earned and such an honor for the Nordics! :)” – Adam Mico
- “Happy to you! Congratulations for visionary! You are amazing! I will never forget your kindness and enthusiasm to talk with me!
I talk about you to every person in Brazil about DataFam event!” – Nik Dutra -
“Suprise for you! Not for me. One of the most charismatic and knowledgeable in the same time Tableau Professional. My humble opinion” – Adrian Zinovei
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“Suits you sir. Well deserved – you have worked tirelessly for this community and share your knowledge throughout 💜💜💜” – Steve Adams
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“Congratulations…so happy for you!” – Kevin Flerlage
Each message was a reminder of the incredible power of community and the deep connections forged through shared passion and purpose.
A Milestone for the Nordics
Being the first ever Tableau Visionary from the Nordics is an honor that carries special significance. It represents a step forward for our region in the global data visualization community and showcases the incredible talent and potential that exists here. I am beyond proud to represent not just myself but also the thriving data culture we are building in the Nordics.
Looking Ahead: The Visionary Journey Continues
This recognition is not the end of a journey but the beginning of a new chapter. As a Tableau Visionary, I am more motivated than ever to continue contributing, sharing, and inspiring. I look forward to collaborating with the incredible people in this cohort and continuing to support the DataFam community worldwide.
I am also beyond excited about the upcoming Visionary swag (let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good piece of swag?) and, of course, the legendary “Visionary Stone” that signifies this incredible achievement.
Heartfelt Gratitude
To everyone who has been part of this opportunity —from my mentors to my peers, from my family to my colleagues at Crayon Consulting—thank you. Your support and encouragement have been invaluable. A special shout-out to my colleagues who celebrated this milestone with the most heartfelt LinkedIn post, making me feel truly appreciated.
And to the DataFam—thank you for being my community, my teachers, and my friends. I am grateful for every opportunity to learn, share, and grow alongside you.
Onward and Upward!
This is only the beginning. There’s so much more to learn, create, and contribute. I am ready to take on this new role with gratitude, passion, and an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of data visualization and analytics.
Here’s to more collaboration, more innovation, and more shared successes!
Thank you for following me, let’s continue to make data beautiful—together.
With gratitude and excitement,
Tore Levinsen
Tableau Visionary 2025