Hosting legacy Java code on a modern cloud platform poses unique challenges. The age gap between the legacy code and the cutting-edge cloud environment requires careful consideration of compatibility, capability, performance, debuggability, observability, and security. If we are looking for a first-class cloud-native experience, then we need to focus on re-architecting, refactoring, and retargeting the code. On a positive note, this process provides an opportunity to enhance the system’s scalability, resilience, and maintainability using the latest cloud technologies. Enter application modernization! This session presents a practical approach to bridging the gap between legacy systems and modern execution environments. Attendees will learn not only best practices around application modernisation but also gain insights into how this approach turns challenges into opportunities for innovation, resulting in a more agile, scalable, and future-proof system.