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My about analyzing my university’s gym crowdedness over the last year using generated a lot of great responses — including: most recent post machine learning How neat! I always wanted an excuse to never go to the RSF [our gym] again. Can you do this for our other campus locations as well? How do I do something like this myself? First, I’m sorry you feel that way about the gym and I sincerely hope the oncoming wave of doesn’t completely crush your dreams of working out forever. New Years Resolutioners Second, yes. I’m in the process of creating more predictive models for the other ten campus locations tracks. Machine learning requires a lot of data, so it may take some time before the models are ready for training. Packd Lastly, great question! In my last post I hinted about how exactly you can do this yourself: I’ve deployed my Random Forest Regressor on to generate predictions as an API call. Algorithmia I’ve since realized this requires a lot more explanation, and it’s the subject of this post. My process may not be the best, but hopefully by illustrating it, I can learn from my mistakes and give you a starting point. The rest of this post assumes you have basic knowledge of machine learning as a concept, you know Python, and you’re familiar with APIs. We’ll use for this tutorial. scikit-learn Developing a Model Locally The first step is to create a machine learning model locally (on your computer) to test things out. The data for this is located for downloading. You’ll need to install: here Numpy (pip install numpy) Pandas (pip install pandas) Scipy (pip install scipy) Scikit-learn (pip install scikit-learn) We’ll need to create a prediction model using the data. The following is taken from my kernel over at : Kaggle import numpy as np # linear algebra import pandas as pd # data processing, CSV file I/O (e.g. pd.read_csv) RandomForestRegressor train_test_split StandardScaler from sklearn.ensemble import from sklearn.model_selection import from sklearn.preprocessing import df = pd.read_csv("data.csv") # or wherever your data is located data = df.valuesX = data[:, 1:] y = data[:, 0] X_train, X_test, y_train, y_test = train_test_split(X, y, test_size=0.25, random_state=42) # Extract the training and test data # all rows, no "number_people" # all rows, "number_people" only scaler = StandardScaler()scaler.fit(X_train)X_train = scaler.transform(X_train)X_test = scaler.transform(X_test) # Scale the data to be between -1 and 1 # Create your prediction modelmodel = RandomForestRegressor(n_estimators=140)model.fit(X_train, y_train) Let’s pause here for a second. I’ve breezed over some important details in the code above. First of all, I didn’t have to modify any of my data (do things like convert column values of “yes / no” to 1/0) because I already did that part behind the scenes. Second, choosing the correct model is not a trivial thing, and I seem to have pulled the Random Forest Regressor out of thin air. (I didn’t really, check my for details). Last, why did I set n_estimators to 140? Normally we’d want to do a over our hyperparameters to find the optimal n_estimators, but I did the hard work behind the scenes already (it takes a while). first post Grid Search The last line is the most important — it actually performs the learning part of the algorithm. It changes the state of the variable From here on out, we can throw new data at the model to make predictions: model. test_output = model.predict(X_test) # predicted valuesscore = model.score(X_test, y_test) # accuracy score, around 0.90print(test_output) Here are the predicted number of people for the test data: array([ 44.92142857,  54.22142857,  45.35714286, ...,  47.95714286,63.27142857,  40.22142857]) Great! This isn’t really predicting the future yet — the test data was actually a quarter of the original historical data ( ). If we want to really predict the future, we need to do a lot more work. more on the test/train data split In order to predict how crowded the gym will be in the future, we need a new array of column values where everything except the target label, , is filled in. The details of how to fill these in probably will take another post, but the general idea is to create several datetimes in the future, and for each one, add each feature value (the timestamp, day of the week, will it be a weekend, will it be a holiday, will it be the start of the semester, etc). For weather feature values, I used the API to make forecasts. number_people Dark Sky Let’s say you now have an array of times in the future for which you want to predict how crowded the gym will be. Here’s how you do it: X_predict = generate_prediction_data() # your special call herescaler = StandardScaler()X_predict = scaler.fit_transform(X_predict)predictions = model.predict(X_predict) Congratulations! The variable now holds the predicted number of people for each of your datetimes in the future. Now, if you wanted, you could generate predictions for the rest of the year, or the century, or whenever, and call that your predicted values. However, this seems like it would take a huge amount of memory and probably wouldn’t be very accurate the further in the future you go. It would be much better to the model we created and only bring it out when we want to make predictions. Here’s how in sklearn: predictions store sklearn.externals joblib from import # How to save the model:joblib.dump(model, "prediction_model.pkl") # You can quit your Python process here, even shut off your computer. # Later, if you want to load the saved model back into memory:model = joblib.load("prediction_model.pkl") It’s easy to store already-trained models in scikit-learn. Of course, your users can’t call you on the phone every time they want predictions so you can generate them on your computer. They’ll need to make an API call of some kind to a service you provide that does the predicting. Storing Your Model in the Cloud You could store the file on your server and load it whenever someone makes a request for predictions, but turns out loading this file uses up a lot of memory. In my case, more than I was allotted by my hosting company. It’s better to host your machine learning model on an entirely different server. You have a few options here from big companies, including , , and . prediction_model.pkl Google Microsoft Amazon However, I decided to go with a smaller, lesser known company to try it out. Algorithmia is a relatively new company based in Seattle that specializes in “algorithms as a service”. Users of the platform can create code snippets and host them on Algorithmia and call their code as an API. In addition, these developers can charge users for access to their code. It’s an interesting business idea and I’m eager to see how it works out, but for now I’m just using the hosting service idea. other After you make an account, you’ll want to upload your to the data section. Here, I have several prediction models, each one ending in the .pkl extension: prediction_model.pkl Uploading is as easy as drag and drop, and takes a few minutes if you have larger prediction models (> 500 MiB). The next step is to create an algorithm that uses your data to make predictions. Make Predictions as a Service Call Under the “More” tab at the top of Algorithmia, you’ll find the Add Algorithm button. Next you need to fill in the details of how your algorithm operates. I enabled “full access to the internet” and “can call other algorithms” just in case. This means my algorithm can call external web APIs, like the weather API, and call algorithms I create on Algorithmia. Dark Sky other Algorithmia provides a code editor online for you to edit your algorithm. Once you create your algorithm, you’ll be brought here: Every algorithm consists of an method, that takes one input, conveniently named . The variable is whatever you define it to be, since you’ll be the one calling the algorithm. Usually, will be a 2-dimensional array of your features, where each row is missing the column you want to predict. For me, that’s . Here’s an example : apply input input input number_people input input = [[1.072308379173353,0.772801541291309,0.0,0.0,0.24191249808036538,-0.36311268827583276,0.0,0.0,0.0,1.034839680120056],... ] If we throw at the I created , we’ll get back a list of the predicted for each feature row, just like we want. The only thing left is to mirror this behavior as a service call. Let’s finish the code on Algorithmia. input model locally number_people Before continuing, make sure you add the correct dependencies to your code. Since we’re using sci-kit learn, here’s all we need to add: Finishing up the source code, we get this: It’s very short, but this will work. When a new correctly formatted is passed to this algorithm, the code will find the path of the file we uploaded earlier, load it into memory using joblib, and finally make the prediction and return it. Click “Save”, “Compile”, then “Publish” to finish your algorithm. input prediction_model.pkl You’ll end up on this page, which is the finished result. If you scroll down to “Use this Algorithm” and click on the Python tab, you’ll see how easy it is to make a call to your algorithm. Algorithmia import input = <INPUT>client = Algorithmia.client(<Your Algorithmia Key here>)algo = client.algo('nsrose/testalgo2/') algo.pipe(input) print This will work anywhere, from any computer that has Python and Algorithmia installed (pip install algorithmia). All you have to do is make sure you format your correctly! input Why is This a Good Thing? : By calling and making predictions as an API call, your app can be free of the concerns of machine learning mechanics. All it needs to do is create correctly formatted inputs. Separation of ML concerns from the rest of your app : Loading *.pkl files into memory is a heavy task and probably not suitable for small applications on limited servers. Outsourcing this job to Algorithmia is a good alternative. Ease up on memory consumption : Algorithmia recently added support for Git repos, so you can edit your code offline and push the changes. Source control your ML code Suggestions for Improvement Add debugging tools to the online code editor Add integrations (Slack notifications when someone uses your algorithm perhaps) Thanks to the folks at Algorithmia who helped answer my questions. I think you have a good product and I hope it takes off!

Machine Learning as a Service (MLaaS) with Sklearn and Algorithmia

In this session of our "Behind the Startup" series, we sit down with Zad, the visionary founder of OpenCred, to explore the revolutionary concept of tokenizing trust in the Web3 environment. As a Stanford-certified expert in blockchain and cryptography, Zad discusses the inception of OpenCred, its unique approach to digital identity through eSFT tokens, and its ambitious mission to reshape social and economic interactions online. Ishan Pandey: Hi Zad, great to have you here for our "Innovators in Web3" series. Can you tell us about your background and what led you to create OpenCred? Zad: As a postgraduate in Blockchain Strategy and Stanford-certified cryptography expert, I have spent years conducting cutting-edge research in asset tokenization, DID, and cybersecurity. Trust is actually one of the most difficult things to measure and quantify, no matter “IRL” or online. Now with blockchain and tokens we finally have the tools to tackle this problem in a novel way. I founded OpenCred to bring tokenized trust to the Web3 industry, unleash the hidden potential that lies in social relationships, and eventually enable the establishment of a decentralized society. Ishan Pandey: Could you start by explaining what OpenCred is and what specific gap in the Web3 space it aims to fill? Zad: OpenCred is a decentralized Web3 credit protocol that applies a new token standard called “eSFT” to tokenize trust relationships into tangible and quantifiable economic assets. Our vision is to empower users to monetize their online activity while guaranteeing data privacy and ownership. By providing a blockchain-based solution for establishing and measuring trust relationships, OpenCred fills a crucial gap in the Web3 ecosystem: enabling trustworthy interactions and collaboration without relying on centralized intermediaries or KYC. Ishan Pandey: In the deck, you mention that OpenCred introduces a groundbreaking trust value (credit) quantification for Web3. Can you elaborate on how this works and why it's important? Zad: OpenCred aggregates both on-chain (e.g., DeFi TVL, smart contract interactions) and off-chain data (e.g., social media followers and interactions) to tokenize trust in the form of CRED tokens. This means users can increase their personal trust value by increasing their online activity and footprint. Each CRED is unique to the user and contains a number of fungible Score Tokens (ST) that determine the value of a user’s CRED. By thus providing a measurable and objective way to assess trustworthiness, OpenCred enables secure, traceable, and efficient trust-based interactions in various Web3 applications, such as social media, e-commerce, DeFi, and gaming. This groundbreaking mechanism is crucial for fostering a trustworthy environment in the digital space and enabling countless new use cases in many areas from B2B to B2C to C2B to C2C. Ishan Pandey: The CRED token seems to be a key component of the OpenCred ecosystem. Can you explain its dual nature as a semi-fungible token and how it represents both identity and trustworthiness? And how does this design benefit users of your platform? Zad: CRED tokens are a groundbreaking innovation of OpenCred, creating a new token standard we call embedded semi-fungible token (eSFT) that combines both non-fungible (unique) and fungible (interchangeable) properties. The non-fungible part of the token represents a user's unique identity within the OpenCred protocol, ensuring that each user has a distinct and verifiable presence. On the other hand, the fungible part of the token quantifies the user's trustworthiness, which is determined by their interactions (on-chain & off-chain) and the amount of CRED tokens they receive from others. This design benefits users by empowering them to monetize their online activity and social relationships. Moreover, by tokenizing trust and making it quantifiable and tangible, we are creating a new kind of asset that simply has not existed before, thereby creating huge value. Ishan Pandey: How does sending CRED between users facilitate the building of a trustable and quantifiable social graph in Web3? Zad: When a user sends CRED tokens to another user, they are essentially establishing a trust relationship that is recorded on the blockchain. This transaction signifies that the sender trusts the recipient to a certain degree, based on their interactions, reputation, or other factors. As users continue to interact and send CRED tokens to each other, a dynamic, evolving on-chain social graph emerges. The social graph is quantifiable and traceable. This quantification of trust enables users to make informed decisions when interacting with others, as they can assess the trustworthiness of potential collaborators, partners, or service providers based on their position in the social graph. Ishan Pandey: With OpenCred positioning itself as a provider of "Trust as a Service," how do you ensure the reliability and security of the trust metrics generated by your protocol? Zad: There is a clear friction between incentivizing users on the one hand and ensuring the authenticity of trust relationships on the other hand. We are aware of this and will tackle this problem in multiple ways. First of all, we will connect the sending of CRED with some actions such as “follow”, “like”, etc., so that the transfer of CRED corresponds with the establishment of a meaningful trust relationship. Secondly, we will implement punishments for sybil attackers and other malicious behavior. Additionally, OpenCred implements a multi-layered governance model that involves community participation and decentralized decision-making. This approach helps to maintain the integrity and fairness of the trust metrics, as the community can collectively monitor and flag any suspicious activities or attempts to manipulate trust scores. To further enhance the reliability of trust metrics, OpenCred incorporates a reputation staking mechanism, where users are required to stake a portion of our governance tokens to participate in trust-building activities. OpenCred places a strong emphasis on user education and awareness. By providing clear guidelines, tutorials, and best practices for using the trust protocol. Ishan Pandey: How do you plan to drive adoption and grow the OpenCred ecosystem, particularly in terms of attracting both users and developers? Zad: OpenCred actively seeks partnerships and collaborations with established Web3 projects across various sectors, such as social media, e-commerce, gaming, and decentralized finance (DeFi). We currently have established partnerships with over 10 Web3 projects with close to 1 million daily active users ready to onboard our protocol once it is live. To attract developers, OpenCred will provide a range of tools, SDKs, and documentation to facilitate the integration of its trust protocol into various applications. The protocol will offer developer grants, hackathons, and bounty programs to incentivize the creation of innovative trust-based solutions. By fostering a vibrant developer community and providing the necessary resources and support, OpenCred aims to accelerate the development of a diverse range of dApps that leverage its trust infrastructure. OpenCred's tokenomics model is designed to incentivize user participation and ecosystem growth. The governance token serves as the primary means of interaction within the OpenCred ecosystem, used for establishing trust relationships, staking, and accessing trust-based services. The protocol will implement a reward system that incentivizes users to actively participate in trust-building activities, such as providing accurate trust assessments, staking tokens, and contributing to the network's security. These incentives will drive user adoption and encourage long-term engagement with the OpenCred ecosystem. Don’t forget to like and share the story! Vested Interest Disclosure: This author is an independent contributor publishing via our business blogging program. HackerNoon has reviewed the report for quality, but the claims herein belong to the author. #DYOR. In this session of our "Behind the Startup" series, we sit down with Zad, the visionary founder of OpenCred, to explore the revolutionary concept of tokenizing trust in the Web3 environment. As a Stanford-certified expert in blockchain and cryptography, Zad discusses the inception of OpenCred, its unique approach to digital identity through eSFT tokens, and its ambitious mission to reshape social and economic interactions online. Ishan Pandey: Hi Zad, great to have you here for our "Innovators in Web3" series. Can you tell us about your background and what led you to create OpenCred? Ishan Pandey: Zad: As a postgraduate in Blockchain Strategy and Stanford-certified cryptography expert, I have spent years conducting cutting-edge research in asset tokenization, DID, and cybersecurity. Trust is actually one of the most difficult things to measure and quantify, no matter “IRL” or online. Now with blockchain and tokens we finally have the tools to tackle this problem in a novel way. I founded OpenCred to bring tokenized trust to the Web3 industry, unleash the hidden potential that lies in social relationships, and eventually enable the establishment of a decentralized society. Zad: Ishan Pandey: Could you start by explaining what OpenCred is and what specific gap in the Web3 space it aims to fill? Ishan Pandey: Zad: OpenCred is a decentralized Web3 credit protocol that applies a new token standard called “eSFT” to tokenize trust relationships into tangible and quantifiable economic assets. Our vision is to empower users to monetize their online activity while guaranteeing data privacy and ownership. By providing a blockchain-based solution for establishing and measuring trust relationships, OpenCred fills a crucial gap in the Web3 ecosystem: enabling trustworthy interactions and collaboration without relying on centralized intermediaries or KYC. Zad: Ishan Pandey: In the deck, you mention that OpenCred introduces a groundbreaking trust value (credit) quantification for Web3. Can you elaborate on how this works and why it's important? Ishan Pandey: Zad: OpenCred aggregates both on-chain (e.g., DeFi TVL, smart contract interactions) and off-chain data (e.g., social media followers and interactions) to tokenize trust in the form of CRED tokens. This means users can increase their personal trust value by increasing their online activity and footprint. Each CRED is unique to the user and contains a number of fungible Score Tokens (ST) that determine the value of a user’s CRED. By thus providing a measurable and objective way to assess trustworthiness, OpenCred enables secure, traceable, and efficient trust-based interactions in various Web3 applications, such as social media, e-commerce, DeFi, and gaming. This groundbreaking mechanism is crucial for fostering a trustworthy environment in the digital space and enabling countless new use cases in many areas from B2B to B2C to C2B to C2C. Zad: Ishan Pandey: The CRED token seems to be a key component of the OpenCred ecosystem. Can you explain its dual nature as a semi-fungible token and how it represents both identity and trustworthiness? And how does this design benefit users of your platform? Ishan Pandey: Zad: CRED tokens are a groundbreaking innovation of OpenCred, creating a new token standard we call embedded semi-fungible token (eSFT) that combines both non-fungible (unique) and fungible (interchangeable) properties. The non-fungible part of the token represents a user's unique identity within the OpenCred protocol, ensuring that each user has a distinct and verifiable presence. On the other hand, the fungible part of the token quantifies the user's trustworthiness, which is determined by their interactions (on-chain & off-chain) and the amount of CRED tokens they receive from others. This design benefits users by empowering them to monetize their online activity and social relationships. Moreover, by tokenizing trust and making it quantifiable and tangible, we are creating a new kind of asset that simply has not existed before, thereby creating huge value. Zad: Ishan Pandey: How does sending CRED between users facilitate the building of a trustable and quantifiable social graph in Web3? Ishan Pandey: Zad: When a user sends CRED tokens to another user, they are essentially establishing a trust relationship that is recorded on the blockchain. This transaction signifies that the sender trusts the recipient to a certain degree, based on their interactions, reputation, or other factors. As users continue to interact and send CRED tokens to each other, a dynamic, evolving on-chain social graph emerges. The social graph is quantifiable and traceable. This quantification of trust enables users to make informed decisions when interacting with others, as they can assess the trustworthiness of potential collaborators, partners, or service providers based on their position in the social graph. Zad: Ishan Pandey: With OpenCred positioning itself as a provider of "Trust as a Service," how do you ensure the reliability and security of the trust metrics generated by your protocol? Ishan Pandey: Zad: There is a clear friction between incentivizing users on the one hand and ensuring the authenticity of trust relationships on the other hand. We are aware of this and will tackle this problem in multiple ways. First of all, we will connect the sending of CRED with some actions such as “follow”, “like”, etc., so that the transfer of CRED corresponds with the establishment of a meaningful trust relationship. Secondly, we will implement punishments for sybil attackers and other malicious behavior. Additionally, OpenCred implements a multi-layered governance model that involves community participation and decentralized decision-making. This approach helps to maintain the integrity and fairness of the trust metrics, as the community can collectively monitor and flag any suspicious activities or attempts to manipulate trust scores. To further enhance the reliability of trust metrics, OpenCred incorporates a reputation staking mechanism, where users are required to stake a portion of our governance tokens to participate in trust-building activities. OpenCred places a strong emphasis on user education and awareness. By providing clear guidelines, tutorials, and best practices for using the trust protocol. Zad: Ishan Pandey: How do you plan to drive adoption and grow the OpenCred ecosystem, particularly in terms of attracting both users and developers? Ishan Pandey: Zad: OpenCred actively seeks partnerships and collaborations with established Web3 projects across various sectors, such as social media, e-commerce, gaming, and decentralized finance (DeFi). We currently have established partnerships with over 10 Web3 projects with close to 1 million daily active users ready to onboard our protocol once it is live. To attract developers, OpenCred will provide a range of tools, SDKs, and documentation to facilitate the integration of its trust protocol into various applications. The protocol will offer developer grants, hackathons, and bounty programs to incentivize the creation of innovative trust-based solutions. Zad: By fostering a vibrant developer community and providing the necessary resources and support, OpenCred aims to accelerate the development of a diverse range of dApps that leverage its trust infrastructure. OpenCred's tokenomics model is designed to incentivize user participation and ecosystem growth. The governance token serves as the primary means of interaction within the OpenCred ecosystem, used for establishing trust relationships, staking, and accessing trust-based services. The protocol will implement a reward system that incentivizes users to actively participate in trust-building activities, such as providing accurate trust assessments, staking tokens, and contributing to the network's security. These incentives will drive user adoption and encourage long-term engagement with the OpenCred ecosystem. Don’t forget to like and share the story! Vested Interest Disclosure: This author is an independent contributor publishing via our business blogging program. HackerNoon has reviewed the report for quality, but the claims herein belong to the author. #DYOR. Vested Interest Disclosure: This author is an independent contributor publishing via our business blogging program . HackerNoon has reviewed the report for quality, but the claims herein belong to the author. #DYOR. Vested Interest Disclosure: business blogging program business blogging program

How OpenCred Makes Trust Tangible via Tokenization

কিভাবে ওপেনক্রেড অনলাইনে বিশ্বাস তৈরি করতে টোকেনাইজেশন ব্যবহার করে

Wie OpenCred Tokenisierung nutzt, um Online-Vertrauen aufzubauen

Cómo OpenCred utiliza la tokenización para generar confianza en línea

Comment OpenCred utilise la tokenisation pour renforcer la confiance en ligne

ओपनक्रेड ऑनलाइन विश्वास बनाने के लिए टोकनाइजेशन का उपयोग कैसे करता है

OpenCred がトークン化を利用してオンラインで信頼を築く方法

OpenCred가 토큰화를 사용하여 온라인 신뢰를 구축하는 방법

Como o OpenCred usa tokenização para construir confiança online

Как OpenCred использует токенизацию для укрепления доверия в Интернете

OpenCred Çevrimiçi Güven Oluşturmak İçin Tokenizasyonu Nasıl Kullanıyor?

Cách OpenCred sử dụng mã thông báo để xây dựng niềm tin trực tuyến

OpenCred 如何使用代币化在线建立信任

In 2023, Tesla experienced its biggest insider threat of the year in May, announcing that it had suffered a massive data breach, marking what is possibly the biggest breach in the company’s history, with __ __and former employees having personally identifiable information (PII) leaked. over 75,000 employees According to the reports which dubbed the stolen data as “The Tesla Files”, the 100 GB leak included: Employees’ personal information like their names, addresses, phone numbers, and Social Security numbers Customer bank details Production secrets Customer complaints about Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) features Even CEO Elon Musk reportedly had his Social Security number leaked. We have since learned that there were two culprits behind the breach: who sent the massive data dump to the German newspaper Handelsblatt. two former Tesla employees The good news for Tesla is that the outlet has announced that they will not be publishing the contents of the leak. As a journalistic organization, especially in Germany, Handelsblatt could find itself in hot water for publishing peoples’ PII. However, the publisher did note the fact that the leaks included complaints about safety issues with the vehicles, which could still cause Tesla a fair amount of grief as writing about these issues could easily fall in the “public interest” bucket for journalists. The bad news is that the company may still be on the hook for in fines due to data privacy violations under GDPR. $3.3 billion While the leak is interesting in itself for reasons of scale and the high profile target, in this article, we are going to look at the role that fostering loyalty with employees can play in helping to tamper with the desire of employees to want to turn against their organizations. But first, let's take a look at Tesla’s history of dealing with insider threats. Tesla's History of Insider Threat Incidents This is not the first time that Tesla found itself in the headlines in terms of an insider threat incident. In fact, the company has a mixed bag when it comes to its history of insider threat incidents over the years. In 2018, Musk announced that a malicious employee had conducted " " to the company, exfiltrating large quantities of data and making changes to their systems. extensive and damaging sabotage The employee reportedly was angry over not receiving the promotion that they thought they thought was coming to them and decided to make their displeasure known through less than pleasant means. On the other side of the scale, in 2020, an employee alerted the company that he had been approached by an old acquaintance who tried to . Thanks to the employee’s warning, Tesla was able to thwart the attack, and the ransomware crew member was arrested. bribe him into helping carry out a ransomware attack In both cases, we see the potential damage a malicious insider can cause to their organization and frankly how easy it can be for them to be successful. Why are Insider Threats so Difficult to Stop? Insider threats are one of the hardest for organizations to defend against because they are legitimate users who are already inside your systems. Unlike outsiders who need to steal/phish/buy credentials and then defeat MFA, an insider is a real user inside your organization who can act totally normally until the moment that they do not.\ This means no indicators of compromise and no leaked credentials showing up on “Have I been Pwned.” You often will not detect it until the damage has been done. An additional factor is the fact that many insider threats are not actually malicious. While they cause real harm with their leaks, they act unintentionally through mistakes and general negligence. According to the Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report for 2023, was the cause of 98% of errors that led to a data breach. carelessness This difficulty in detection has led many organizations to look for ways to head off incidents before they happen, looking at strategies for prevention. This is where the question of motivation and loyalty comes into play. Negative Impactors on Employee Loyalty Year after year, the number one motivator for insider threat incidents is financial gain. You know, good old-fashioned greed. And yet, the seed that leads to the betrayal is planted long before an employee decides to take the more drastic steps of stealing or harming your data. Looking at the , researchers found that 89% of privilege misuse cases were financially motivated, followed by a “grudge” at 13%. Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report for 2023 So, what leads to that grudge? According to Jacques Y. Kassa’s 2021 thesis “ at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA, depression, hopelessness, frustration, disgruntlement, and anger are all emotional factors that play into insider threats. ” Modeling the Relationship Between Loyalty and Insider Threat Not a groundbreaking insight but we also know that organizations do not invest enough effort in checking in with employees to see how they are feeling about their place in the organization. Kassa writes that motivators like ideology, vengeance, retribution, espionage, and activism are more frequent in government organizations than in the civilian sectors. Perhaps in the case of Tesla, there may have been a desire to share some of the safety data with the public, though there is a question of whether this is activism or retribution. There are, however, a couple of factors to watch out for. Underpaid and Underappreciated Being well compensated for your work is the top motivator for basically every employee. Better than extra snacks or company activities, employees need to feel that they are appreciated for their work, and commensurate compensation is a clear indicator of that recognition and respect. Feeling Part of the Team During the pandemic, one of the struggles faced by organizations was in employees maintaining a sense of being on the team. Going remote meant not strengthening the in-person, informal bonds that can make a person feel comradery with their co-workers and deter them from wanting to cause them harm. After all, if these are just people that you see on Zoom calls and email chains, what do you owe them if a better opportunity comes along? This has primarily been a problem for retention, but it can also impact motivations for someone turning malicious. Mass Layoffs and the Great Resignation We are at a cultural moment that is frankly different from where we were five or ten years ago. Uncertainty in the job market is a constant, with organizations laying off large quantities of workers in massive waves. Big players like Amazon have cut workers in the past year, while Microsoft has laid off over people. 27,000 10,000 This has led to the justified feeling among many that their companies are not loyal to them. So why should they show loyalty back? Why not take some customer data or valuable IP before you get shown the door if it might give you a leg up at your next job? Combine this uncertainty with the Great Resignation that saw workers leave jobs that they may have put up with for something better. Maybe they found a better location, something totally remote, or having other good conditions that they decided to seek greener pastures elsewhere. Many simply looked around and saw that plenty of others were leaving their jobs, so why not them, too? 3 Tips for Reducing Insider Threat Risk Given the ways that employee loyalty can be diminished, how can organizations improve the positive feelings that their employees have and reduce their risk of an insider threat incident? Here are a few suggestions. Provide an Outlet for Frustration or Concerns Beyond the need to feel appreciated, people need to feel that they have a place to turn to when something is bothering them at work. A question any company, especially a manufacturer, should ask is whether employees have a place to go where they can voice ethical concerns in-house and see that they are handled with due seriousness. If workers do not have an internal channel for dealing with concerns, then they may seek options elsewhere. Invest in Education and Training There’s an interesting question about when it comes to accidental insider-caused incidents. On the one hand, they do not actively choose to harm their employer since the case is unintentional. However, on the other hand, a lack of interest in following the guidelines due to a lack of a strong commitment to their organization probably plays a role in these incidents occurring. Dealing with the non-malicious actors requires fewer sticks and more carrots to get results. Training and education can play a critical role here in preventing incidents. The advantages here can be two-fold. Learning the proper protocols for handling sensitive data and systems teaches them how to do the job correctly and safely. It also gives them a sense of ownership. When your organization invests time and resources into training them how to be better at their job and protect the organization, then chances increase that they will try to implement what they learn in the courses. Encourage but Verify with User Behavioral Analytics Even as we work to increase the level of trust with employees, we need to implement measures to verify that folks are on their best behavior. This means putting in place User Behavioral Analytics tools for continuously monitoring behavior in order to establish a baseline of activity. Once we understand how people normally interact with the systems that they are entitled to work with and think about which applications, data sets, etc they interact with regularly, then we can detect when they begin to act anomalously. Most insider threat cases follow similar patterns in that they have threat actors abuse their privileges and find ways to exfiltrate their pilfered data. By monitoring sensitive files, we can see who is accessing them and potentially who is stepping outside the lines and needs to be followed up with. Loyalty is Earned, Not a Given One note for clarification. Companies are not families. They hire, fire, downsize, and work in their own self-interest. Most of us do not fire our family members, even if we want to sometimes. Employees have the same right to leave an organization if they feel that their own needs are not being met. Having loyalty to a company does not mean that someone should stay if they are not happy. What it does mean is that if the organization acts properly, then it will engender enough goodwill to keep employees on the ethical and legal path of not stealing their data or seeking to cause them harm. And that may count for enough to help diffuse and prevent a potential incident.

Data Breach: What Tesla’s Biggest Insider Threat in 2023 Can Teach Us Going Into 2024

ডেটা লঙ্ঘন: 2023 সালে টেসলার সবচেয়ে বড় অভ্যন্তরীণ হুমকি কী আমাদের 2024-এ যেতে শেখাতে পারে

Datenschutzverletzung: Was uns Teslas größte Insider-Bedrohung im Jahr 2023 für das Jahr 2024 lehren kann

Violación de datos: lo que la mayor amenaza interna de Tesla en 2023 puede enseñarnos de cara a 2024

Violation de données : ce que la plus grande menace interne de Tesla en 2023 peut nous apprendre à l’approche de 2024

डेटा उल्लंघन: 2023 में टेस्ला का सबसे बड़ा अंदरूनी खतरा हमें 2024 में क्या सिखा सकता है

データ侵害: 2023 年のテスラ最大のインサイダー脅威が 2024 年に向けて私たちに教えてくれること

데이터 침해: 2023년 Tesla의 가장 큰 내부자 위협이 2024년에 우리에게 가르쳐 줄 수 있는 것

Violação de dados: o que a maior ameaça interna da Tesla em 2023 pode nos ensinar em 2024

Утечка данных: чему нас может научить крупнейшая инсайдерская угроза Tesla в 2023 году в 2024 году

Veri İhlali: Tesla'nın 2023'teki En Büyük İçeriden Tehdidi, 2024'e Girerken Bize Ne Öğretebilir?

Vi phạm dữ liệu: Mối đe dọa nội bộ lớn nhất của Tesla vào năm 2023 có thể dạy chúng ta điều gì khi bước sang năm 2024

数据泄露：进入 2024 年，特斯拉 2023 年最大的内部威胁可以告诉我们什么

Thomas Cherickal is a postgraduate in CS and theology who has rediscovered the love of coding after many years of delving into music after he passed out of college. He currently freelances with clients on Upwork and . His biggest passion now is research in AI, and it never ceases to fascinate him. In his mind, the music of Bach and Handel, theories for AGI development, and a HuggingFace API program in Python occupy the same address space. In this interview, he reveals a little more of what fascinates him and his obsession with math, coding, spirituality, violin, choral singing, badminton, and recently, generative learning, the latest research, and now, transformer neural networks and LLMs. officially creates content for a software project template development company called ProjectPro 1. What do you currently do and what’s your favorite part about it? I read research papers and formulate theories of my own. They occasionally turn out to be new and fascinating. I dreamt of being a research scholar, now I’m doing a research scientist’s work and getting paid for it! I also develop AI applications and am working on open-source Python projects. I also play the violin as a ministry, sing as a ministry and in choirs in 4-part harmony (bass), play badminton as a hobby, and go to the gym to keep the dopamine at racing levels. I also belong to two church choirs and one semi-professional choir. I am also a Confirmed Jesus Youth (all formation modules finished - the first batch passed out worldwide). 2. How did you get started with your Tech Career? I initially thought I would be a mathematician because problem-solving is an addiction for me, I changed to CS once I discovered Python programming. Ever since then, (2010) I have not stopped working on CS problems and research papers from free RSS feeds. Even a course on theology, taken for exploratory reasons (I thought I should be a priest!), did not dissuade me from this practice. Of course, at that time, it was a hobby, and my pace of learning was limited. After rejoining the software industry with 4W Technologies in 2016, it became a passion. I have realized that I have far too much creative energy to code for an enterprise (would never work out) and have instead passed on to a self-guided exploration of cutting-edge computer science and technology. 3. If Utopia were a color what color do you think it’d be and why? White because white is perfection. A flawless work of art - be it a poem, a program, a ground-breaking research paper, or a piece of music like a Bach composition. Purity is what I value the most. 4. If everything about HackerNoon changed drastically, what is one detail you’d like to keep exactly the same?  OR What’s your favorite thing to do with HackerNoon and why? The readership and the audience size. My favorite thing about HackerNoon is the size of the user base and the readers. I love to put up my latest research exploration and the odd finding on the site. I just wish they had a better monetization program. After getting 25,000 reads, you would think you’d be paid. But I guess that’s one thing this platform has to work out on its own. I look forward to the day when HackerNoon will be paid as much if not more than the Medium Partner Program. 5. Tell us more about the things you write/make/manage/build! I’m very passionate about learning as much AI as I can. I now work with Python to build Transformer models for general-purpose applications (MetaGPT). I also have to learn Julia  because that is the future of AI. I also realize that I need to learn Rust because functional programming languages are the future of software development.  (I already know Golang and Dart). I build AI-enabled Mobile applications and high-performance blockchain models (HoloChain and Hedera Hashgraph). But Transformers are my primary research interest right now. Right now I seem to be extracting almost a concoiusly sentient personality from my LLMs. It’s actually scary if you look at it that way. 6. What’s your favorite thing about the internet? The convergence of the entire world on a global scale. Sitting in my room or coffee house or gym, I can access any part of the world - USA, UK, China, Russia, India, Japan, Canada, Italy - and tap into their information. I’m a programming and information addict, which is the coolest part of the Internet. The world is at your fingertips. Once you know APIs and REST, the entire Internet is at your disposal. This ability to almost be omnipresent on the Internet is completely underrated. The entire world is now dependent on a functioning World Wide Web. It’s scary that we have even a single system point of failure. If the Internet goes down permanently, so does the rest of the world. That would be a starting point for your next question. 7. It’s an apocalypse of ‘walking dead’ proportions and you can only own a singular piece of technology, what would it be? 3D-printed food synthesizers and water purifiers. People need to eat and drink! And preferably something other than me! But I would also save a New Jerusalem Version Bible. And the Anne Catherine Emmerich books, all four volumes. Then some empty notebooks and pens that have a very long lifetime because I never intend to stop journaling, as long as I can. I believe that everyone’s life is a gift and it’s worth making it meaningful, significant, and wonderful to write about. 8. What is your least favorite thing about the internet? The Dark Web. The less said, the better. 9. If you were given $10 million to invest in something today what would you invest in and why? I would diversify! I would invest 2 million USD in apartments and rent them out at market rates employing sufficient workers to maintain them (Rich Dad, Poor Dad). I would buy 100,000 USD worth of the 20 lowest price cryptocurrencies available. I would get a computer that actually can run my programs. I mean, really freak out. 256 GB DDR RAM, 256 GB Optane RAM, 128 GB Graphics Card x 4 cluster, 128 TB HDD, several ultra-large monitors for coding purposes, ergonomic input devices and chair, and an ultra-large living space for myself (maybe a new house) where I can exercise and play sports and even swim. That would be cool. The remaining 5 million USD would go to religious orders like the Missionaries of Charity and the Foundation for Free CS Education For Street Children, a Foundation for Volunteering as a Break-Time from Work, a Foundation to Sponsor the Education of the Poor and Marginalized, and a Foundation to Learn English worldwide. 10. What’s something you’re currently learning or excited to learn? Organizing Julia into a large code base and following good programming architecture principles, and of course, Rust! On a serious spiritual note, we are learning the Deliverance Charism Ministry in the Unbound Program. Sexual sin plagued me for years before I discovered friends and fellowship from Jesus Youth, of both genders. Helping people by delivering them from the evil spirit’s influences would be fantastic. I know that’s weird for an intellectual but I stand by my experiences and my faith. 11. Would you rather travel 10 years into the past or 10 years into the future? Give reasons for your answer. Ten years into the future. The world has a beginning and an end. I want to live to see the end. Not a perverse thought but a statement I stand by as a dedicated Catholic charismatic Christian and a Jesus Youth. I somehow feel I have a mission at that time. And that my entire life has been a preparation for that. Also, signs and wonders and the need for faith to survive on the earth are highly motivating factors at the time of the apocalypse. I feel strongly that in 2023, we are not far away from an environmental tipping point of no return. Sorry to end with such a pessimistic outlook, but that’s my belief and that’s my answer.

Thomas Cherickal - Independent Theoretical Researcher Working for ProjectPro

In our increasingly interconnected world, the need for skilled cybersecurity professionals has never been greater. As digital threats evolve and technology becomes more integral to our lives, the demand for experts who can safeguard sensitive data and systems continues to grow. If you're intrigued by the prospect of a dynamic and impactful career, the realm of cybersecurity offers a plethora of pathways to explore. In this article, we'll delve into the diverse avenues you can take to enter the exciting world of cybersecurity. What is Cyber Security? Cybersecurity is like a digital shield that keeps your personal information and online activities safe from bad actors on the internet. Just like you lock your doors to protect your home, cybersecurity uses tools and practices to prevent hackers and malicious software from stealing your data, invading your privacy, or causing harm to your computer and devices. It's all about safeguarding your digital life so you can browse, shop, communicate, and work online with confidence and peace of mind. Is Cyber Security a Good Career for You? The world of cybersecurity offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for those passionate about protecting digital landscapes. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can defend against these risks is on the rise. Whether you're intrigued by ethical hacking, risk management, or securing networks, the field provides a range of specialized roles to match your interests. With industry-recognized certifications, constant learning opportunities, and the chance to make a tangible impact on digital safety, a career in cybersecurity could be the perfect fit for you. Cyber Security Career Considerations 1. Academic Foundations Creating a successful path in cybersecurity hinges on a solid educational base. Many aspiring professionals find that pursuing a degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field offers a robust start. Such programs instill crucial technical skills and core concepts, which are vital in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape. For instance, opting for a computer science degree introduces you to programming languages like . These languages are fundamental when analyzing software vulnerabilities and crafting secure applications. Similarly, information technology degrees equip you with essential skills in system administration, network management, and database operations. These proficiencies seamlessly translate to cybersecurity, where safeguarding networks and sensitive data is paramount. , , or Python Java C++ Upon earning your foundational degree, you can specialize further through postgraduate studies or certifications. Pursuing a Master's in Cybersecurity allows deep dives into intricate security mechanisms and advanced threat detection strategies. Notable certifications such as or offer focused expertise in specific cybersecurity domains. These credentials enhance your credibility and marketability, setting you on a strong trajectory within the cybersecurity field. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) In summary, a robust educational background is the bedrock of a thriving cybersecurity career. Whether you opt for computer science or information technology, you acquire skills that align seamlessly with the demands of the cybersecurity landscape. This foundation readies you to tackle challenges from coding secure software to designing resilient defense tactics against evolving cyber threats. For interactive coding tutorials and IT-related courses, platforms like and offer valuable resources to support your educational journey. Codecademy Coursera 2. Cybersecurity Certifications In the realm of cybersecurity, certifications play a pivotal role in showcasing specialized expertise and skill sets. A prime example is the , an industry-standard credential that covers essential cybersecurity principles. This certification validates proficiency in areas such as network security, cryptography, and security risk management. It's a stepping stone for individuals aspiring to solidify their knowledge and enter the cybersecurity field. CompTIA Security+ certification Another prominent certification is the credential. Widely recognized and respected, covers a broad spectrum of cybersecurity domains, ranging from asset security to security and risk management. Achieving certification demonstrates a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles and positions professionals for leadership roles. The offers comprehensive details on and its significance. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) CISSP CISSP International Information System Security Certification Consortium ( ISC)² CISSP By obtaining cybersecurity certifications, individuals open doors to diverse career opportunities. These credentials serve as tangible proof of your proficiency and commitment to staying current in the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape. Whether pursuing or , these certifications empower you to excel in your cybersecurity journey and stand out in a competitive job market. CompTIA Security+ CISSP Different Roles in Cybersecurity 1. Ethical Hacking and Penetration Testing , play a vital role in bolstering cybersecurity defenses. These professionals are skilled in identifying vulnerabilities within systems and networks before malicious hackers can exploit them. They operate by mimicking cyberattacks, uncovering weaknesses, and providing organizations with actionable insights to enhance their security measures. Ethical hackers, often referred to as penetration testers Consider a scenario where a financial institution aims to fortify its online banking platform against potential breaches. Ethical hackers would conduct penetration tests to simulate various attack vectors, attempting to breach the system just as a malicious hacker might. Through these simulated attacks, they unearth vulnerabilities that could compromise sensitive customer data or disrupt services. , implement stronger defenses, and safeguard their digital infrastructure. Organizations can then use this information to patch vulnerabilities To excel in this role, . By mastering tools and tactics employed by hackers, they can anticipate potential threats and proactively address them. For those looking to enter this field, platforms like provide insights into ethical hacking and penetration testing, offering resources to learn and apply these skills effectively. ethical hackers must possess an in-depth understanding of hacking techniques and defensive strategies HackerOne In essence, . By identifying vulnerabilities in advance, organizations can stay one step ahead of cyber threats and protect sensitive information from potential breaches. As these professionals bridge the gap between hackers and defenders, they contribute significantly to the overall resilience of digital systems. ethical hacking and penetration testing serve as proactive measures to ensure cybersecurity 2. Security Analysis and Incident Response When cyberattacks strike, . These professionals are the who swiftly assess the extent of breaches, minimize the damage, and devise preventive measures to avert future threats. the expertise of security analysts and incident responders becomes a shield against chaos frontline defenders Consider a scenario where a company's database has been breached, exposing sensitive customer information. Security analysts step in to meticulously analyze the breach, identifying the entry point, the compromised data, and the potential pathways used by the attackers. Their investigation provides vital insights to contain the breach and prevent further unauthorized access. offers comprehensive training in incident response, equipping professionals with the skills needed to navigate such critical situations. SANS Institute They work tirelessly to isolate affected systems, recover lost data, and restore normal operations. and customer impact. Furthermore, these professionals collaborate with security analysts to extract intelligence from the breach, facilitating strategies to fortify defenses and prevent future breaches. Incident responders, on the other hand, focus on immediate action. Their rapid response minimizes downtime In essence, . By promptly identifying breaches, containing damage, and implementing preventive measures, these professionals are pivotal in maintaining the integrity of digital systems. Their expertise ensures that businesses can rebound swiftly from cyber disruptions and continue to provide secure services to their customers. security analysis and incident response are vital components of modern cybersecurity 3. Network Security In the ever-connected digital landscape, . Their responsibilities encompass crafting, executing, and overseeing a range of security protocols, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and virtual private networks (VPNs), all aimed at preserving the sanctity of data. the guardians of network security are indispensable Network security specialists are experts who are dedicated to shielding an organization's digital highways from cyber threats. For instance, a network security specialist could be tasked with to safeguard a company's internal network from unauthorized access. This involves creating rules that filter incoming and outgoing network traffic, allowing only legitimate data packets to pass through while blocking potential threats. Additionally, they might set up intrusion detection systems (IDS) that actively monitor network traffic for unusual patterns or suspicious activities. If such activities are detected, alerts are generated, enabling rapid responses to potential security breaches. The certification equips professionals with the skills needed to excel in network security roles. designing and implementing a firewall system Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Furthermore, through virtual private networks (VPNs). By encrypting data that travels between remote locations and the main network, VPNs ensure data integrity and confidentiality, even when transmitted over public networks such as the Internet. These measures are crucial for organizations with remote employees or branch offices. Altogether, the efforts of , thwarting cyber threats and enabling seamless and secure communication within organizations. network security specialists play a critical role in establishing secure connections network security specialists fortify the digital infrastructure In summary, in the modern digital landscape. Through their adept design, management, and implementation of security measures like firewalls and VPNs, they safeguard data integrity and confidentiality. By protecting the network pathways, against cyber threats, fostering a secure environment for operations and communications. the vigilance of network security specialists is pivotal these professionals bolster an organization's resilience 4. Security Architecture and Engineering In the intricate landscape of cybersecurity, . These experts are entrusted with the vital task of crafting and constructing systems with . They collaborate closely with developers to infuse applications with robust security features, thereby thwarting potential vulnerabilities right from the inception stage. security architects and engineers stand as the master builders of secure digital realms security at their core Consider a scenario where a software development project is underway for a new online payment platform. Security architects and engineers would collaborate with the development team to integrate security measures seamlessly. This could involve employing to protect sensitive financial transactions, setting up for user accounts, and ensuring . The result is a fortified application that prioritizes user data protection. is a well-regarded resource that offers guidance on secure software development practices. encryption protocols multi-factor authentication secure data storage practices OWASP By embedding security considerations into the development lifecycle, security architects and engineers mitigate the risks associated with post-launch vulnerabilities. For instance, a security architect , minimizing the chances of breaches after deployment. Their vigilant approach ensures that every layer of the digital structure is fortified against evolving cyber threats. might review code to identify and rectify potential weak points In summary, the roles of . Collaborating with developers, . By establishing security as a foundation, these experts ensure that digital creations are resilient against threats throughout their lifecycles. This proactive approach safeguards user data and upholds the integrity of digital systems. security architects and engineers are crucial in constructing secure digital landscapes they integrate robust security features into applications to prevent vulnerabilities 5. Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC) In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, e. These experts are entrusted with ensuring that organizations navigate the intricate web of industry regulations and standards with precision. , the formulation of compliance strategies, and the establishment of policies that safeguard sensitive information while upholding legal and ethical compliance. Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC) professionals emerge as guardians of adherenc Their role encompasses the evaluation of risks For example, in the healthcare sector, and is handled in compliance with the . They assess risks associated with data storage, processing, and transmission, and subsequently devise strategies to minimize those risks. This might involve implementing encryption measures, conducting regular audits, and establishing clear data handling policies. The provides comprehensive insights into the regulatory landscape. GRC professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that patient data remains confidential Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) HIPAA Journal GRC professionals also address the evolving landscape of cybersecurity regulations such as the . In this scenario, they collaborate with legal teams to understand the implications of the regulation and design procedures to ensure that organizations' data processing practices align with requirements. By embedding compliance measures into day-to-day operations, these European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) GDPR professionals protect organizations from potential legal consequences and maintain public trust. In summary, . By assessing risks, devising strategies, and establishing policies, they create a solid framework that safeguards sensitive information and maintains ethical and legal standards. Their contributions ensure that organizations operate within the confines of regulations, fostering trust among stakeholders and upholding data privacy in a digital age. GRC professionals are pivotal in steering organizations through the complex seas of regulatory compliance 6. Threat Intelligence and Research Staying one step ahead of cybercriminals requires constant vigilance and up-to-date knowledge of the latest threats. Threat intelligence analysts gather and analyze information on emerging threats, helping organizations proactively defend against new attack vectors. Conclusion The realm of cybersecurity is a dynamic and multifaceted field that offers a range of exciting career paths. Whether you're inclined toward hands-on technical work, strategic planning, or a blend of both, there's a niche within cybersecurity that aligns with your interests and strengths. To explore these paths in greater detail, be sure to check out our comprehensive Cyber Security Career Playbook available at . This resource provides in-depth insights into various subtopics of cybersecurity careers, helping you chart your course toward a successful and fulfilling career in this ever-evolving field. https://simeononsecurity.ch/cyber-security-career-playbook-start

Exploring the Multifaceted Paths to a Career in Cybersecurity

Explorando los caminos multifacéticos hacia una carrera en ciberseguridad

Explorer les voies à multiples facettes vers une carrière en cybersécurité

साइबर सुरक्षा में करियर के लिए बहुआयामी रास्ते तलाशना

サイバーセキュリティのキャリアへの多面的な道を探る

Explorando os caminhos multifacetados para uma carreira em segurança cibernética

Khám phá các con đường nhiều mặt dẫn đến sự nghiệp trong lĩnh vực an ninh mạng

探索网络安全职业的多方面路径

is the founder of DPC Legal Services and a member of the Portuguese Bar Association. Diogo Pereira Coelho Diogo and I recently sat down to discuss crypto regulation, CBDCs, DAO, and his journey to and blockchain technology. Read on! web3 Mr. Diogo, can you briefly tell us about yourself? I have been practicing law since 2018, when I started my professional internship as a trainee lawyer in a renowned law firm in Portugal. After successfully completing the internship, I enrolled as a Lawyer at the Portuguese Bar Association in January 2021. For the past year, I have been in private practice and focused on helping my clients overcome the increasingly demanding legal challenges related to Web 3.0. As a lawyer practicing at the intersection of law and technology, what was your route to blockchain and web 3? After completing my Law degree in 2017 and before starting my internship as a trainee lawyer, I worked for a year at an international bank, in a financial instruments implementation department. From this experience I was able to extract some knowledge regarding the complexity of legal situations associated with financial markets. More or less at that time, between 2016 and 2017, I started to follow Bitcoin, as well as the associated blockchain technology and crypto markets. As a result, I ended up transporting these topics to my studies at an academic level. I have been carrying out research on matters related to Web 3.0. since 2017, especially on crypto-assets and blockchain, both in the context of master's studies, as well as in the context of some postgraduate courses. Later, already in the scope of my practice as a trainee and associate lawyer, I had the opportunity to be involved in legal situations that interconnected Web 3.0. with the areas of criminal law and tax law, which was also very rewarding. CBDCs are central banks' response to the growing influence of cryptocurrency. Does the mandate to provide a viable digital alternative to Bitcoin come naturally or do you smell a rat? This question is quite curious, because I have a very peculiar perspective on this subject. As has been argued over the last years, Bitcoin was created after the great financial crisis of 2007-2008, with a view to serving as an alternative to the traditional monetary and financial system, widely considered by the crypto ecosystem as corrupt and obsolete. After its launch and the natural initial skepticism, the underlying principles of this technology, associated with decentralization and the end of intermediation, ended up winning over entire communities from the most diverse social, cultural and economic backgrounds. Over the last few years, this achievement has resulted in an unconscious acceptance and use of digital/ virtual currencies as a means of exchange/ payment. If we combine crypto-assets with home banking, most people are already used to digital payments and also managing their money digitally. It is in this sense that, after analyzing these points, it seems that the emergence of crypto-assets, DeFi, etc., actually ended up contributing to the acceptance of digital currencies from central banks. The initial idea of crypto-assets was to decentralize the system, however, at least in social and cultural terms, everything indicates that it only contributed to the acceptance of a system that will be even more centralized. The truth is that nobody knows who created Bitcoin. There is only one story that seems to be more romantic than true. For all we know, the creation of Bitcoin may have been just another PsyOp. Who knows. Jokes aside, like all technologies, CBDCs have several advantages and disadvantages, therefore, it is up to governments to weigh them on a scale and decide if and how they should be implemented. The chairman has recently been accused of stifling innovation. Where do you see the US heading in terms of crypto regulation? SEC I have been closely following the activity of regulators in the US since the beginning of the year and they seem to be determined to “clarify” the framework for all types of digital assets and also all types of operations related to digital-assets. After the scandal related to the FTX, among others, the regulators seem to be under some pressure to act. Since the beginning of the year, both the SEC and the CFTC have been involved in several legal conflicts with a view to measuring certain assets or operations respectively as securities or commodities. In the midst of so many cases, they even ended up making some contradictory statements. In any case, all these conflicts also ended up having some practical results. A draft law that aims to provide requirements for issuers of was recently published. stablecoins In this sense, it doesn't seem that the SEC or even the CFTC intend to boycott innovation. It does seem that, at an international level, we are facing a phase of greater regulatory pressure. It was inevitable. It is happening now, but it could have happened 5 or more years ago, if the regulators had not taken so long to react. How do you think the crypto industry should be regulated? Due to the characteristics that certain legal situations associated with operations related to crypto-assets appear to have in common with certain legal situations associated with traditional financial instruments, I was initially of the opinion that a new and diverse notion of financial instruments should simply be created, with crypto-assets simply being considered digital financial instruments. Currently, and after all the developments of recent years, including the emergence of DAOs and NFTs that can represent any type of asset, whether physical or digital, I am no longer so sure that the creation of a new and diverse notion of digital financial instruments would be enough. Also because traditional financial instruments are already being tokenized. Eventually all of our public records will be based on blockchain technology. Eventually, all kinds of values and goods will also be represented by digital tokens. Even virtual values and goods within the scope of a metaverse that, over the years, is supposed to be confused with physical reality. Eventually, organizations will also be autonomous and equally "managed" via tokens. As such, given the multiplicity of matters that digital assets and underlying technologies involve, for the time being, I still cannot find a definitive answer to this question. When I think of DAOs, I think of how blockchain is capable of upending our working lives. Do you think DAOs are here to stay? Undoubtedly. Everything points to the idea that digital and even artificial autonomous organizations will be the future. From companies to universities, there will be few types of organization that, over the years, will not be completely restructured and adapted to rapid technological advances. While some professions will be adapted or reinvented, others will end up being replaced by machine efficiency. On the other hand, in my opinion, the social and cultural implications are not being discussed enough, or at least with the importance they deserve. Crypto-friendly countries such as El Salvador and Congo are hoping to achieve financial inclusion through Bitcoin. Is this an economic gamble taken to the extreme? It seems to be, but we are not dealing with isolated conducts. In the case of El Salvador, we are facing a true digital strategy, which apparently aims to attract foreign investment. For example, in addition to Bitcoin being considered a legal tender, there are other legal initiatives that aim to create tax incentives for companies related to technology, including artificial intelligence. These are innovative and courageous measures. As the saying goes: "no risk, no gain". The number of high tech crimes in the crypto industry is fast growing. What's your experience relating to this? At my former law firm, I had the pleasure of working on multiple cases related to technology. From what I have been following in recent years, everything indicates that the trend will continue to increase and not just in the crypto sector. Not least because technology development levels also continue to increase dramatically. Nowadays, cyber-attacks can take on different forms and, as technology advances, more and more possibilities are available for this purpose. With the digital transformation and the entry into the Digital and Artificial Era, in particular with the implementation of central bank digital currencies, the metaverse as a workplace and the general use of applications based on artificial intelligence, people will be increasingly vulnerable to this type of attack. In this sense, investment in people's technological literacy is increasingly important, essentially with a view to mitigating the high risks associated with the use of new technologies. What's the government of Portugal, your home country, doing to leverage cryptocurrency? Until the year 2022, Portugal was considered a tax haven for crypto-assets. In fact, Portugal was part of the increasingly short list of countries that do not tax income from operations related to crypto-assets. For this reason alone, Portugal was already part of the Web 3.0 ecosystem. With the entry into force of the State Budget for 2023, Portugal ended up giving the first official big statement. Nowadays, along with Germany and some others, Portugal is considered one of the most advantageous jurisdictions in Europe in terms of income tax from operations related to crypto-assets. Our tax regime presents multiple exemptions. Only fiat conversions are taxed (not crypto-to-crypto) and NFTs are excluded. Furthermore, if the crypto-assets are held for the period of 365 days, they are also exempt from capital gains. We are, therefore, facing a very beneficial tax regime. Any parting words? I just want to encourage legal professionals in the Web 3.0 area to contribute to technological literacy. With the rapid evolution of new technologies, the combination of technological literacy with legal and financial literacy is increasingly essential.

Exclusive Interview With Web3 Attorney Diogo Pereira Coelho

Entrevista exclusiva con el abogado de Web3 Diogo Pereira Coelho

Entretien exclusif avec l'avocat Web3 Diogo Pereira Coelho

Web3 अटार्नी डिओगो परेरा कोएल्हो के साथ विशेष साक्षात्कार

Web3弁護士Diogo Pereira Coelhoへの独占インタビュー

Entrevista Exclusiva com Web3 Advogado Diogo Pereira Coelho

Phỏng vấn độc quyền với Luật sư Web3 Diogo Pereira Coelho

Web3 律师 Diogo Pereira Coelho 独家专访

Designing a game that people actually want to play is tough. Adding a token economy on top of it that enhances the gameplay is a challenge few have mastered. And lastly, competition between publishers and game developers is fierce, so designing an ecosystem where digital collectibles are transferable between games requires the politicking of Frank Underwood from “House of Cards.” With all of this in mind, it’s shocking that the P2E-gaming world is thriving. its first blockchain game is coming, it will be releasing four new blockchain games, and even the Metaverse craze with a new virtual footwear platform. Sega announced Fifa unveiled Nike joined There is clearly something brewing. Blockchain doesn’t equal cryptocurrencies. The technology itself is home to many new advancements other than digital currencies, and even though Meta is struggling, to say the least, the Metaverse is still poised to become the norm for online gaming. While the world heads into recession, VC investors invested more than $4.5 billion in the development of Metaverse games and other Metaverse projects in 2022, show. And this is only the beginning. DappRadar statistics Early blockchain-gaming pioneer recently reached an impressive three million sign-ups, with more than 65,000 active daily users. These kinds of statistics belie the glum stats about famous but ultimately . Spielworks unpopular Metaverses It’s true that some games try to distance themselves from NFTs as much as possible—even “Grand Theft Auto” from its online servers. And it’s also true that with FTX’s collapse, Justin Bieber’s Bored Ape Yacht Club NFT of its value. banned crypto and NFTs shed nearly 95% Companies like , on the other hand, deployed $150 million to acquire AAA-quality games for the platforms, on the heels of unlocking $2.2 billion in P2E revenue in 2021 for its players. Jason “BitBender” Brink, the president of blockchain at Gala, was quoted saying, “I think we are the first company in history that has given away more money than we made.” With numbers like these, it’s easy to understand why P2E and NFT gaming are unstoppable forces. Gala Games Yes, the current economy is hitting crypto even harder because it’s newer, riskier, and more volatile—but it’s hitting everyone, and it’s not going away anytime soon. So instead of wallowing in despair from the constant stream of bad economic news, we can keep an eye out for news that shows where this inevitable future of tech is going. , The world's first fashion Metaverse for creators, partnered with the Royal College of Art (RCA), the world's most influential postgraduate institution of art and design. Through the partnership, platform users will be able to use and co-create digital fashion designed by RCA alumni, helping steer the fashion industry online. GN3RA On the digital vehicle front, software giant is working with Volvo to . Of course, Volvo is already running computer simulations, but the Metaverse takes this to the next level using “Digital Twins,” exact replicas of real-world cars. NVIDIA fully test cars in the Metaverse While the naysayers nay, innovators can look around at their peers, and see some incredible projects in the works. As President Theodore Roosevelt said, “it’s not the critic that counts, the credit belongs to the man in the arena.” Nowhere is that more true than in the innovation space. Like Schrodinger's cat, the Metaverse is simultaneously here, and it’s coming. There is no telling where it will end up—all we know is that it’s going at tremendous speeds.

Web3 Gaming Is More Mainstream Than You Think

70% of Indian Startups got severely hit by COVID-19! Additionally, around had to fully shut their operations due to a lack of resources and opportunities during the pandemic. 12% Covid19 wreaked havoc on businesses of all sizes. It caused the majority of business owners to worry about their company's future development and growth. However, a few individuals, in this case, let's call them the demonstrated a tremendous amount of human spirit and perseverance. SHE-SUPERHEROES, When the entire business community was standing on the verge of a mega breakdown, these got busy bootstrapping their . Female entrepreneurs Startup journeys This is going to be a unique blog. I'm not going to discuss India's most well-known startups. But the ones, driven by women that managed to innovate & upscale excellent B2C products amidst covid-19. Here are the top 5 young but promising B2C firms founded by Indian women during the pandemic: 1. Orahana by Ruchi Pathak Passion speaks through one’s work. This sits very well with Ruchi Pathak, a graduate of the National Institute of Fashion Technology, Hyderabad. She is the soul behind Orahana. A startup established in May 2022, renowned for its easy-breezy clothing and home-decor furnishings. If I had to define their in one word, I would call it “VIBRANT”. Their clothes represent today's youth. Summer Collection Soft colors, laid-back style, and a blend of comfort & class define their fashion. No wonder Ruchi takes her inspiration directly from nature. And with the help of some genius local artisans, she gets "her ideas" etched in colorful patterns on soft and luxurious fabrics! She doesn’t believe in mass production as she is of the opinion that everyone has their unique style. Her startup is more about personalizing fashion to help one represent him/herself through what they wear. If you thought ORAHANA was a beautiful name, wait until you hear its meaning. In Hawaiian, the word “Ohana” translates to “Home”. And home is where nature lies! 2. What’s Up Wellness by Sayantani Mandal Two young professionals with an initial investment of 25 lakhs bootstrapped a Wellness Brand in the thick of covid! It was at a time when numerous businesses were collapsing that Sayantani and her business partner, Vaibhav Makhija, showed the courage to build their own. While living away from her family, Sayantani faced a strange problem. Something, she quickly realized that many others were experiencing as well.  Work had become her top concern while exercise was pushed to the side. Eventually, the stress, lack of nutrition, and junk began to show their impact! It's then the duo decided to turn the tables around and build a brand that aids wellness in a fun & easy way. That is how What’s Up Wellness came into being! It is a new-age Wellness Startup built to cater to the needs of today’s “always-on-the-move” generation. Their very 1st offering is the What’s Up Skin and which is a delicious blend of 13 essential nutrients & multivitamins that are great for your skin, hair, and nail health. Hair Gummies In less than a year, What’s Up Wellness has already found customers across India, with a turnover of Rs 1 crore between August 2021 and March 2022. 3. Colocal by Sheetal Saxena They say you can achieve anything if you work hard for it. This is the story of Sheetal Saxena, an MBA postgraduate from IMT Nagpur, who took her passion for chocolates to the next level by making a profession out of it. She wasn't a natural chocolatier, and she didn't have any formal training in the industry. She used to be a banker before moving into this extremely creative sector. Sheetal surprisingly is a self-taught master chocolatier who perfected her chocolate-making skills through sheer passion and dedication. She says in one of her interviews with Lonely Planet that she was told repeatedly at the start of her career that chocolate making requires some form of professional training. It would necessitate her attending university and learning from professionals. She was adamant, however, that anything can be learned via observation, practice, and perseverance Colocal is a bean bar factory and a cafe where they make and serve chocolate in the form of cold , and cacao cold brew. They also roast their own coffee beans to ensure your coffee is full of flavors, aromas, and deliciousness. chocolate What's even more impressive is that their entire team is women. 4. Patrika by Mansha Kaur Mansha Kaur is a name that needs no introduction. In 2019, the ISB dropout launched a podcast called which became an instant hit. "Heart on My Sleeve," She uses this channel to primarily discuss the taboos surrounding a common man's life. Her words give people the strength to fend for themselves and be happy again. But there came a point in time when she realized that these conversations, while temporarily inspiring, didn't have a long-lasting impact on her listeners' lives. She recognized that reading a motivational book or listening to an upbeat podcast could have a transient effect on people. However, after a short period of time, say a week, those affirmations are forgotten forever. She had to find a way for the positivity to stick with the people. It was then that Mansha decided to co-create Tools with highly experienced psychologists in order to assist individuals to feel better on a daily basis, both emotionally and mentally. To make it happen, she teamed up with Dr. Trinka Arora to create professional and advanced tools to aid with self-discovery, mood management, habit change, and a variety of other issues using CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and other methods that Dr. Trinika employed in her 20 years long career. 5. Kizo by Payal Khandwala Looking for a gift for a special someone but don’t know what to give? Kizo makes easy for everyone! gifting Instead of buying a gift that the receiver may or may not like, you can now give a Kizo gift card. It allows friends and family the luxury to choose their own gifts from India’s Top Brands. Not only does the app allow you to share a gift card but it also lets you personalize your messages with photos and videos and send beautiful physical gift cards. Imagine waking up on your birthday and finding a gift card on your doorstep. A card that you can spend however you like. Nothing feels better than the freedom to buy your own gifts. Payal Khandwala is a designer by profession and she launched the Kizo app along with her partner and husband Vikram Ramachandani in the middle of the pandemic. Kizo isn’t just helping customers choose appropriate gifts, it is also helping young brands showcase their products on the Kizo app and quickly reach a wider audience. Wrapping up These women-led startups are significant in laying the path for younger women who are still in their formative years. And are looking for female heroes for inspiration and guidance. Even the statistics support women leaders. According to a by Mass Challenge and BCG, survey “Women-run businesses deliver higher revenues, equating to more than twice as much per dollar invested”. The report by goes on to claim that companies that have women in leadership positions experience 226% higher returns. MSCI ESG The pandemic, without a doubt, doubled the difficulties in obtaining raw materials, finding manufacturers or suppliers, shipping, and so forth. As a result, it's even more crucial to commend female leaders for having the bravery to shatter the glass ceiling. And to launch startups in the midst of a life-threatening pandemic. This article is an attempt to encourage more and more Indian women to move beyond their fears. To hustle hard and create history. Closing this blog with a wonderful quote by Sara Blakely, founder, Spanx- "Don't be intimidated by what you don't know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else."

5 Promising B2C Startups founded by Indian Women During Covid

Most people consider gaming to be a hobby, but it is so much more than that. The gaming industry keeps evolving. Now, you can build a career in gaming and earn a lot of money in this industry. Yes, it is possible. Gaming ESports is a highly competitive industry that requires professionals to have a good balance of creativity, fun, and technology. Creativity and passion are the most important attributes required in this field. With technology's constant evolution, the growth of e-games has finally taken center stage. It has been recognized as a sport in the national and even in the international arena, making history for the gaming world. This event is a milestone for gaming that has definitely changed the way a lot of people look at it. Gaming The world of competitive and organized video gaming is referred to as eSports. Competitors from various leagues or teams compete in popular at-home games such as: Fortnite League of Legends Counter-Strike Call of Duty Overwatch Madden NFL. e.t.c Millions of fans around the world watch and follow these gamers, they attend live events or tune in on TV or online. Streaming services such as Twitch allow viewers to watch their favorite gamers play in real-time, and this is typically where popular gamers develop a fanbase. Are there courses that specialize in gaming? The answer to that question is . With the unstoppable growth and development of the gaming industry, some schools, colleges, and universities in the world now offer courses related to gaming or gaming development. YES Here are some Gaming Certificate and Diploma Courses you might want to check out: Certificate in Gaming Certificate course in Game Art & Design Diploma in Production Gaming Diploma in Game Design and Integration Diploma in Animation, Gaming, and Special Effects Diploma in Game Design (DGD) Diploma in Game Development Diploma in Game Programming Advanced Diploma in Game Art & 3D Game Content Creation Advance Diploma in Game Programming Advance Diploma in Game Design and Development Application Bachelor Courses: B.Sc. in Gaming Bachelors in Media Animation & Design (BMAD) B.Sc. Animation & Gaming Bachelor of Science in Animation Game Design and Development Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) – Computer Science and Game Development Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Animation & Computer Graphics Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Digital Filmmaking & Animation Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Graphics, Animation & Gaming Master Courses: Integrated M.Sc. in Multimedia & Animation with Game Art & Design M.Sc. in Gaming Master of Science (M.Sc) in Game Design and Development Master of Science (M.Sc) in Multimedia and Animation Now, in order to be admitted to the diploma programs, you must have completed a 10+2 or equivalent exam in any subject from a recognized board. Some colleges prefer a minimum of 60% in order to admit students to diploma programs. If you want to enroll in certificate courses, you must have completed the 10th grade from a recognized school. On the other hand, students who have completed the 12th grade from any recognized school are eligible to apply for undergraduate courses. While candidates for postgraduate courses must have a bachelor's degree in the related field or department. To be admitted to game design or gaming courses, you must first meet the eligibility standards developed by the institution or college where you wish to enroll. Some colleges admit students based on the results of a qualifying exam merit list. In addition, admission to different colleges is based on an entrance examination, followed by a group discussion and individual interviews. Are there schools or institutions that offer gaming scholarships? Given that there are a lot of gaming courses offered already, scholarships are included too in order to support brilliant minds and talented individuals to achieve their gaming dreams or goals. Of course! Take a look at the 10 Best Colleges for Gamers & ESports Scholarships: Arcadia University (Glenside, PA) Robert Morris University (Chicago, IL) Valparaiso University (Valparaiso, IN) Ohio State University (Columbus, OH) Bellevue University (Bellevue, NE) Concordia University – St. Paul (St. Paul, MN) Full Sail University (Winter Park, FL) University of Texas at Dallas (Richardson, TX) Hawaii Pacific University (Honolulu, HI University of California at Irvine (Irvine, CA) How great is this? With the scholarships offered by various institutions, the students will have the opportunity to enhance their skills and nurture their knowledge to make their career in the gaming industry. As a result, the quality of gamers produced will definitely be top-notch! Your Future in Gaming What are my job options if ever I pursue studying gaming? Now that gaming has been recognized worldwide, it has been accepted as a sport, and gaming courses and scholarships are being offered, various job opportunities await you! Well, the possibilities and opportunities are endless. Here are some of the careers you might want to pursue: Game Designer Character Animator Art Designer Freelance Game Developer Script Writer Game Tester Game Modeller Level Designer Game Quality Assurance Tester Interactive Media Designer Gameplay Programmer Art Designer Level Scripter Some reputed recruiters: Electronic Arts (EA) Digital Chocolate Zynga Games2Win Hastag iEnergizer Ozura There are still a lot of negative connotations and misconceptions linked with gaming. But throughout these years, it has been proven that gaming is not just a waste of time or just for leisure. The Gaming Industry continues to prove that there is indeed a future in gaming.

Gaming as a Socially Acceptable Career

Let’s Start with My Background I will start a little bit from afar. The part of the story is that in 2015 I had a degree of . I graduated from the University of Helsinki, where I studied Russian literature as a major for about four years. It is a very amusing and really broad subject, and I was truly enjoying my studies. Anyway, there was just one problem. I do not know how obvious is that, but as you probably can imagine, there is simply no way to get a job in such a field, except you are a genius or/and have some relations. I do not fill in either category, and it is totally ok, but the reality is not so supportive. Master of Arts After almost 1,5 years of looking for a job in my profession, with no result, I realized I should stop thinking about the value of my degree and postgraduate studies and just find some “normal” job. The job I did accidentally find became a part of my life for the next five years. First, I Became a Tram Driver So, in the spring of 2017, I became a tram driver here in Helsinki in the local transport company. It was never kind of a dream job, but it was ok, a decent job for a moment, as I thought then. Nevertheless, quite soon I understood that this job is not what I wish to do for the rest of my life. After that, I started thinking about changing my profession and looking for possible ways to move on. After all, about 2.5 years ago, in 2019, I started thinking about getting another “better” degree that could improve my employment situation. Luckily, at that time, I probably made the best decision I could have made. In the fall of 2019, I started to study Computer Sciences at the . The main reason for choosing this University was the fact they were offering a , which suited me the very best in my situation where I would like to combine work and study. LAB University of Applied Sciences distance learning program Next, I Created a Plan At this point, we can skip that part where I am crying about “how hard it is to combine work and studies”. I do not honestly think it is valuable. So, let’s just move to the essential part of my story. I started to look for a job very early, in my first year of university studies. I suppose it sounds a bit strange and presumptuous, however that was not an accident, but rather part of my plan. The “Plan” contained just one mission - I should try to get the first job in IT as soon as I could. The main reason - I felt that I have already spent too much time doing nothing. There were also at least three “tools” to achieve the goal: intensive self-studies, hundreds of sent CVs, and a bit of perseverance. At this point, I must explain, that I do not really think that this plan is genius or would work for everyone. On the contrary, probably it is not - tonnes of CVs may not be necessary, since I know people who got a job/internship after the first one. However, those people are definitely an exception, and all the process is a lottery, in a sense. I know that the tech internet is full of stories where a person finds a software engineer job in six months after completing a couple of free courses and creating a calculator from YouTube tutorials. Individually, I do not believe in such stories, neither I have seen anything like that in real life. On the contrary, people who quickly got jobs in IT were experienced and knowledgeable. It does not mean that you need a university degree at all. In my case, it just helps me to structure my knowledge. Summarizing that, it feels that looking for a job as early as possible is still a decent strategy since it can help you to learn what employers are looking for and to gain more confidence by going through a series of failures and disappointments. This is where the third tool on my list is needed - perseverance. I Started Looking for a Job The process of looking for a job in IT was a very painful and frustrating experience. I sent my CV to an enormous amount of different places and got tonnes of rejections as a result. Sometimes I have also got an interview invitation. I can say, that I made all kinds of them - phone screenings, zoom, in-person interviews, live coding sessions, etc. At some point, I realized that if I really want to find a job and not only enjoy the process of searching for it, I should commit to studying a bit every day. Now, I actually think that this decision was the most important in the whole process. In my opinion, university studies shouldn’t be the only source of information (and experience), especially in IT. A person is practically obliged to do something on his own to gain a comprehensive experience. The next important part of this story is the decision to concentrate on developing my . I think that it is critical because firstly, you will have something to show the employer to prove your skills, and secondly, you will show your commitment. Building a side project is also the best way to improve your skills and gain confidence. own pet projects I had three main projects during the last two or three years: My personal website - (React, TypeScript) https://villivald.com My blog - (11ty) https://create-react-app.com And my basketball-related project, which I’m most proud of - (Next.js, JavaScript, MongoDB) https://koripallopaikat.com I think that especially the latest project was one of the possible reasons for my “success” in finding a job. At least, that was one of the factors why I continually got a positive response from recruiters. My Current State In December 2021, I got another invitation for a job interview from the . It seemed inspiring since I was always thinking about University as an employer in a positive way. The vacancy itself (Junior Frontend Developer) was also extremely promising, as it included the duties that I was most interested in. University of Helsinki The interview went surprisingly well. Luckily, there was no live coding part, which was always a kind of traumatic experience for me. However, the biggest surprise was ahead, as, after about a week, I got a call to let me know that I got the job. So, it’s hard to believe, but after two and a half years of studying and about two years of meaningful job search, I finally got my first job in IT. At the present time, I have been working there for three months, and so far, things are going relatively well, even though I still feel like the dumbest person in the world almost every day. I also realized that imposter syndrome is unfortunately an absolutely real thing and not just a hackneyed cliché. In the next post, I will try to gather my thoughts and describe my typical working day. Also posted here

The Story of How I Got My First Job in IT with Perseverance and a Plan

Kuda is Nigeria's first mobile-only bank licensed by the Central Bank. Kuda is designed for your smartphone, free of ridiculous charges and great at helping you budget, spend smartly and save more. Musty Mustapha - the cofounder/CTO of Kuda graduated from university with a first-class degree and a distinction in his undergraduate and postgraduate studies, respectively. On this episode, Musty talks about his career and entrepreneurship journey, how Kuda started, the big wins and challenges so far and why Kuda is spending a lot of money on advertising right now. Watch the Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wTk3RveJrU Video Timestamps Musty at 10-year-old 1:16 Getting to Know the current Musty 4:32 Musty shares how Kuda bank started and how he met Babs 5:36 He eventually quit his full-time job to focus on Kuda 9:35 What was the first win that determined if it was the right decision? 10:32 About Kuda's “25 free transfers” strategy and how they manage to get revenue doing this? 11:13 What's the strategy behind the acquisition via ads - billboards, TV, Radio etc? 16:23 Was independent cards always in the plan? And how will it affect scaling? 19:19 What is the best thing about building Kuda so far? 21:26 Experience fundraising for Kuda 24:53 Will Musty change anything in his journey if he had the chance to do it all over again? 26:50 Kuda's people culture? 28:13 Musty shares his thoughts about No Code tools 30:05 Musty shares his favourite city, food, colour, gadget etc? 32:00 Musty's advice to upcoming tech entrepreneurs? 34:05

#FoundersConnect: Interview with Musty Mustapha, Co-Founder & CTO of Kuda

In 2021, hosted the first-ever awards!! HackerNoon Startup of the Year The goal of this campaign was to give recognition to the hardworking startups who pulled through the pandemic -- growing and thriving (despite all of the challenges). More than 44,000 startups were nominated all across the globe! They were selected from over 4,553 cities, with a total number of * cough * “4 billion” votes. Insane, right? To see who is a winner in each respective city, visit and pick a city. The name at the top of the list is the winner. (Awards, with compromised reviews, are under review.) startups.hackernoon.com The will announce the winners per region in their respective cities. Startups Winners Announcement Series Apparently, South America startups did incredibly well in that regard. With so many, until now, uncrowned jewels, it’s time we present to you... * drumroll* 🥳 The South America Startups of the Year Winners! Santiago, Chile Chile is known for being the most stable country to do business in Latin America, ranking 13th in The Economist’s Business Environment Index. Moreover, according to the Global Innovation Index, Chile ranks first in Latin America for innovation and is recognised as Chilean Silicon Valley with Santiago being the central city. The winner is…. QCObjects It is the 1st world class open-source framework made in Latin-America. São Paulo, Brazil And the winner of Brazil’s vibrant financial center is... Innvo Digital Their mission is to create the best ecosystem for a technology professional to work and undertake while sharing it with our customers and society. São Carlos The absolute leader of Sao Carlos seems to be: Predify Predify is an online software for optimizing pricing proccess and improving profits with AI and Big Data Analytics. Belo Horizonte, Brazil With a more than noble goal, Belo Horizone’s winner is: CM Tecnologia CM Tecnologia is an online scheduling system for healthcare providers in Brazil. Porto Alegre, Brazil With the focus on data protection, Porto Alegre, Brazil’s winner is…. Privacy Tools Privacy compliance platform, based on AI/Blockchain, which helps global companies to keep compliant with the data protection requirements. Brasil, Brazil With the focus on EdTech, Brasil is bringing us: Awari Awari is a YC-W21 company focusing on education for the Tech Industry. The company is growing at a fast pace and has gathered experts from all leading tech companies into a full education experience to prepare the next cohort of tech talent. Quito The capital of Ecuador, and also the closest capital to the actual equator, as the winner brings us: Agrodemanda The most comprehensive agricultural directory in Ecuador. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil Rio de Janeiro has more than 300 startups and is ranked 3rd in Brazil in terms of startup ecosystem development. The city is famous for the startups in the spheres of education, energy & environment and foodtech. Their winner is…. Bybrand Bybrand is the simplest way to save time and avoid frustration when managing your employee's email signatures. Buenos Aires, Argentina Buenos Aires, Argentina is not only the cosmopolitan capital with a vibrant history. It’s also Latin America’s most important port. Which makes their winner actually a very logical choice. Please meet: Liftit Liftit is the leading technology platform to automate and execute last-mile truck deliveries across Latin America. Curitiba, Brazil With a more noble mission and sustainability in mind, Curitiba, Brazil, as the winner brings us... Discrepante is the marketplace for a more human and sustainable economy Discrepante.com Florianópolis, Brazil Would you really be surprised one of the Brazil’s winners is related to football training? We neither. Please meet... Fútbol Fit Club Football FitClub® is a fitness training firm that gives fitness training to improve like a professional football player. Medellín, Colombia And the first Colombian Startup Winner is is a data intelligence solution powered by a high quality team. Meet... LogComex Market intelligence for international trade in Latin America Montevideo, Uruguay The host of inaugural FIFA world cup of 1930 comes through when it comes to innovation even in 2021. I’d like to introduce you to: Drop Technologies First electronic hand antiperspirant device Lima, Peru Lima, Peru, has in 2021 delivered some amazing results when it comes to blockchain technology. Their winner is very well deserved: RSK Labs RSK is the first open-source smart contract platform São Carlos Do Pinhal Well this is a unique case. The absolute unanimous winner of São Carlos Do Pinhal is: brain4care brain4care solution enables monitoring intracranial compliance noninvasively anywhere Blumenau, Brazil We’re sensing a theme here. Another stellar EdTech winner is coming from Blumenau, Brazil. Please meet... Uniasselvi Uniasselvi is a Brazilian distance-learning company that offers more than 60 undergraduate and postgraduate courses, in person and distance. Bogotá, Colombia Startups of Bogotá, Colombia definitely showed they’re not to be underestimated. With a very noble mission, let me introduce you to: Risü Risü is an online platform that links online consumption to donation to social institutions. Campina, Brazil If there’s one typo of business we’d single out as taking the biggest hit out of the pandemic, it would have to be small businesses. Thankfully, the winner of Campina, Brazil, operates with small businesses in mind Superlógica Tecnologias Ltda. Superlogica is a management system company created for small service businesses. Cerqueira César, Brazil Swooping half the points from the entire City, this year’s winners of Cerqueira César are InfoPrice INFOPRICE is a business intelligence company focused on physical retail pricing. Governador Valadares, Brazil The same can be said for the winners here. Let’s hear it for: Grupo KPG Saas, Payment, Manufacture, Pharmaceutical, E-commerce, Marketplace, Logistics Caxias Do Sul Known for wine making and Italian cultural influence, Caxias Do Sul brings as an interesting winner. Studio 360 Studio 360 is a proptech focused on easing the purchase experience for real state companies, brokers, and costumers. Sorocaba From Sorocaba, we have an interesting concept coming. Looking forward to seeing it further develop. Let’s meet: Quinto Quinto is a social network that represents the collective opinion of society—to help democracy evolve through technology Viña Del Mar To be a venue-oriented business and survive through the pandemic definitely deserves some recognition. In the name of that, let’s meet: SonicPollen SonicPollen, based in Chile, is a web-based booking platform that connects bands with venues and organizers. Lages Learn more about high-growth startups in Lages, South America. and the winner is…. Qualiall Qualiall develops technologies for training in operational processes such as work security, equipment maintenance, and more. Córdoba, Argentina Another gem from Argentina brings us unique agricultural solutions. Please meet: Kilimo Kilimo is a Big Data solution for water management in agriculture. São José Dos Campos, Brazil Another great agricultural solution comes this time from Brasil. Meet São José Dos Campos Startup winner: TerraMagna TerraMagna is a fintech company that focuses on risk mitigation for agribusinesses. São Leopoldo, Brazil Event-oriented businesses that have survived in the previous years should definitely bottle their perseverance and start selling it. One of those is definitely this winner: Wedy Wedy offers a one-stop-social marketplace for weddings. Pelotas, Brazil Medical scheduling platforms are definitely something we need to see more of. So glad Pelotos winner comes from this particular niche. Fácil Consulta Fácil Consulta is a booking platform that allows people to schedule an appointment with a Specialist Physician in their area. Santa Maria Could you believe how versatile the startups of South America are when we are only now coming across a game development studio? Let’s meet them Imgnation Studios Imgnation Studios is a game development studio that focuses on virtual reality. Asunción, Paraguay A FinTech solution coming from Paraguay. Meet Asunción Startup of the Year winner Vision Banco Vision Banco is a solid and growing financial institution serving the financial needs of the micro, small and medium enterprises. Caracas Venezualan food delivery app that seemed to have your heart. Meet Caracas Startup of the Year winner Yummy Inc. First Food Delivery App in Venezuela Recife A suitable combo between gaming and education, Recife Startup of the Year winner brings revolutionary solutions. Let’s meet them. Joy Street Joy Street offers develops video games focused on educational needs. Rosario, Argentina The winner of Rosario Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Gbot Gbot is an autonomous robot that controls weeds without using agrochemicals. We also collect data in fields and generate precision maps. Vila Olímpia, Brazil The winner of Vila Olímpia Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Seekr Seekr operates in the Information Technology sector, providing tools for managing and monitoring of brands. Barueri The winner of Barueri Startup of the Year award for 2021 is.... Glic Brazilian mhealth (web/app) platform for diabetes management Brasília The winner of Brasília Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Ticies Ticies is a social network that helps people plan where to go with their friends, relatives and acquaintances, in all cities of the world. Juiz De Fora The winner of Juiz De Fora Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Qranio Qranio is a gamified mobile learning platform for enterprises that rewards learning and stimulates users to engage with educational content. La Paz The winner of La Paz Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Jukumari Advice 360 photo based market place for responsible tour operators Temuco The winner of Temuco Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... GoFeels GoFeels is the first independent hospitality network in the world. We promote collaborative work among hotels around the world. Vitacura The winner of Vitacura Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... MeatMe MeatMe delivers meats and accessories to have a culinary experience. Barranquilla The winner of Barranquilla Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Mandaos Mandaos is a digital platform that connects companies and people with a network of independent messengers Ceará The winner of Ceará Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Caroá Caroá is a cooperative that sells 34 varieties of vegetables, organic fruits, and vegetables. Chapecó The winner of Chapecó Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... HortiAgro HortiAgro is a seed and fertilizer market. Chile Chico The winner of Chile Chico Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Gleengo Gleengo connects children with their favorite toys, through a tiny device and an application based on text-to-voice. Goiânia The winner of Goiânia Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Auvo Auvo is an external teams management software. Itá The winner of Itá Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... TISSUELAB Tissuelab is a research and development center focused on biotechnology, and systems for reconstructive musculoskeletal surgery. Jardim Paulista The winner of Jardim Paulista Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... DiviCom DiviCom is a digital video networking company that designs, integrates, and markets complete systems. João Pessoa The winner of João Pessoa Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... YupiPlay YupiPlay develops and offers an educational gaming platform. La Reina The winner of La Reina Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... INTI-TECH INTI-TECH is the fastest growing renewable energy in Chile and the world's leading unconventional source. Leme The winner of Leme Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... EcoStart EcoStart focuses on manufacturing sustainable electric bicycles, fans, and accessories. Loja The winner of Loja Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Enerwi Corporation Keeping people connected and secured through wireless charging novel solutions Manizales The winner of Manizales Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Porter Metrics Porter Metrics has developed an automated solution for generating social media reports in minutes. Nova Lima The winner of Nova Lima Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Biomimetic Solutions Biomimetic Solutions is an innovative tissue engineering company. Paraná The winner of Paraná Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Laura Laura is a provider of artificial intelligence and predictive analytics platform for hospitala and clinics to prevent damage & reduce costs. Salvador The winner of Salvador Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Sanar Sanar is a platform that focuses on being the doctor's guide and support, offering specialized content that helps in their development. Santa Catarina The winner of Santa Catarina Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... DrPOCKET Sunchales The winner of Sunchales Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Eolo Pharma Eolo Pharma focuses on developing drugs targeting the molecular and cellular basis of inflammation-related diseases Valparaiso The winner of Valparaiso Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Invitta Invitta transforms plastic waste into a high-performance construction material for manufacturing sustainable urban furniture. Vila Velha The winner of Vila Velha Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... OneGrid OneGrid is a developer of hardware and software solutions focused on energy management. Indaiatuba The winner of Indaiatuba Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... DWUL Energy Renewable Energy Campinas, Brazil The winner of Campinas Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Ativy Ativy is an IT company specialized in cloud computing, data centers, IT outsourcing, service desk, and IT management. Las Condes, Chile The winner of Las Condes Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... # MuvPass Subscription services that allows it's users unlimited access to fitness classes in the best gyms and studios in Latin America. Pinheiros, Brazil The winner of Pinheiros Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... GuiaBolso GuiaBolso is a personal finance platform that empowers people to take control of financial well-being. Rio, Brazil The winner of Rio Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... EmCasa EmCasa is a vertically-integrated platform that helps customers buy and sell a home in Latin America, starting in Brazil. Guayaquil The winner of Guayaquil Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Sabroso Online platform for LatAm's enterprises to order low-cost meals Jundiaí The winner of Jundiaí Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Sintecsys Sintecsys offers a fast and effective detection, reducing losses and costs with fire brigades. Minas Gerais The winner of Minas Gerais Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Rizoflora Biotechnology Rizoflora Biotechnology is a producer of biological product designed for nematodes control. São Caetano Do Sul The winner of São Caetano Do Sul Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Wevo 1 iPaaS in Latam - Enabling companies to be truly digital companies with APIs, systems and data integrated into a single platform Canoas The winner of Canoas Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... ContaÁgil ContaÁgil facilitates and reduces bureaucracy in accounting routines of companies. Chile The winner of Chile Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Unight Unight is the future of nightlife social media. Israelândia The winner of Israelândia Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Matchpool Matchpool is a platform that creates human connections. La Plata The winner of La Plata Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Pixivus Pixivus offers a community-based application that enables its users to collect, store, and share pictures of events. Novo Hamburgo The winner of Novo Hamburgo Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Devorando Devorando offers an online food ordering system and menus available in restaurants based in Brazil. Pernambuco The winner of Pernambuco Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Redu Redu is a distant learning platform which is built on a social networking structure. Providencia The winner of Providencia Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... # TrainFES TrainFES is a medical Devices for the rehabilitation of people with paralysis. Ribeirão Prêto The winner of Ribeirão Prêto Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... AllyHub Ally is a sales distribution channel technology that connects Schools and Service Providers with Education Agencies. Santa Cruz De La Sierra The winner of Santa Cruz De La Sierra Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... Mobi Latam Mobi Latam is a clean energy startup that focuses on transportation systems based on electric mobility. Santana De Parnaíba The winner of Santana De Parnaíba Startup of the Year award for 2021 is... MercadoLivre.com is an e-commerce technology company providing solutions to individuals and companies buying, selling, and more online. MercandoLivre.com More Information If you’re a winner, please answer ! If you’re a reader, participant, just a curious individual, consider answering one of our interviews . this interview here Read the FAQs about or . Startups here here To see all of the winners you may visit , pick any city and view the name that appears at the top. this site If you’re interested in partnering with us, we invite you to look through some of these or reach out to our business department. unique sponsorship options Perhaps creating your very own tickles your fancy or maybe you have a whole new idea for how we can partner! writing contest Thank you to all of our sponsors! We truly appreciate your contribution to the tech world and thus the future! The Startups Awards are sponsored by: , , , , , , , , , , Blockster Brex FreeCodeCamp LaunchDarkly Coil Udacity Udemy Vercel Asia Pacific Transgender Network Bybit Everscale Network This post was written/compiled by Shreya Kundu and Katarina Andrejević! If you have any questions or concerns or would like to report a discrepancy please email ellen@hackernoon.com.

Meet the Winners of Startups in South America

This story was originally presented as a slide deck for a seminar given to the 2021 cohort of HackerNoon’s Blogging Fellowship; under the titles and; “How to become the product manager your content career may or may not need,” “Plan and Roadmap Your Content Strategy to Achieve Your Goals with This Super Simple 5-Step Exercise* (*strongly inspired by principles involved in product management.)” If you’re interested in becoming a Blogging Fellow at HackerNoon, . you can apply here A Career Backstory, in Brief I'm studying product management right now, which feels like an entirely natural development in a career path that began something like this: To cut a long story short: after graduation, I took my postgraduate degree in journalism and creative writing to magazine and a couple local newspapers. That was a lot of (unpaid) fun, at first. COSMOPOLITAN But it didn’t take me too long to figure out how much easier it'd be to monetize my work if I started calling it "content", and selling it to these shiny new things called "startups", in this exploding thing called the "tech industry" — which is how I landed my first job as a "Content Creator" at a fast growing edtech. "It's all marketing. Marketing is the bedrock of business, and the cornerstone to making a living from 'creative' pursuit." — Jess Henderson, Offline Matters: The Less Digital Guide to Creative Work That startup was called GetSmarter, and, fittingly, it was at GetSmarter that I started I reading and sharing HackerNoon stories with colleagues in both the sales and dev teams. At the time, HackerNoon was the only place publishing in-depth articles about the very new work I needed to do — for which there was no degree, no certificate programme, not yet even a MOOC. As it turned out, I had a talent for it. People my copy. People thought that — in print, at least — I was (something I've never really been called IRL). loved hilarious And I've thought about that a lot, in hindsight, because it's not something I had a conscious process for, at the time. When I started studying product management and design earlier this year, I realised there are a lot of connections between the way great content creators work, and the way great product managers, well, manage. "Why are stories so important to building a product? Telling stories is one way to cut through the noise and speak a common language. Stories help solidify who your users are, what they need to do and how you might help them achieve it. Most importantly, storytelling is one way to ask and illustrate your ‘why’." — Clarizza Fernandez, ' ' Writers: So you want to be a product manager? So when I thought about what I would like to share with you — all of HackerNoon's already very talented writers currently on the Blogging Fellowship — I thought about Product Management processes and frameworks. I think product management provides helpful strategic tools not just for software, but for the product that is , , and if you want to go freelance, for example. your blog your writing career your personal brand, Let's dive in! Plan and Roadmap Your Content Strategy to Achieve Your Goals with This Super Simple 5-Step Exercise* * strongly inspired by principles involved in product management Step 1: Formulate a clear VISION for your career in content. Outline the specific challenges your content is intended to solve, for who, why, and when. Go with the first things that come to mind here, and don't be afraid to get really specific. Remember: when you try to talk to everybody, you end up addressing nobody. Here's a content strategy statement template to help you out: I create content ABOUT _____________________ and _________________________ [ YOUR AREAS OF EXPERTISE ] to HELP _____________________ and/or _________________________ [ YOUR IDEAL READERS ] _________________________; _________________________ achieve / solve / DO and/or [ THE ACTIONABLE VALUE YOU CREATE ] _________________________; _________________________. when they need/want/have and/or [THE MOMENTS WHEN, AND WHERE, YOUR READERS NEED AND DISCOVER YOU]. Example: "I create content about blogging, design, and product management to help people in tech and marketing learn to use Notion, Figma, and other remote collaboration tools to better communicate strategy, ideas, and new processes with dev teams, especially when they need to set project goals and OKRs, launch a product, or ship new user-first features." Step 2: Create Your Ideal Reader PERSONAS. This is a crucial documentation exercise in empathising what your ideal readers pain-points are, and knowing what their needs are so that you can address them. Creating at least 3-5 Ideal Reader Personas help you define not only the finer elements involved in voice and tone, branding, and design; but also your overarching content strategy, calendar, and monetization avenues. If you don't yet have access to any real analytics about your readers, it's okay to make these up entirely, at first. You can also hack some quick long-tail keyword research just by guessing the types of questions your ideal readers might be asking, and then seeing what comes up in the question boxes and related searches; or by using tools like AHRefs and Answer the Public. Ideally though, you can use GA to give you a creepy amount of information about the people already reading the work you're putting out there. Step 3: Pick Your PROTO-PERSONA and Start Detailing From the 3-5 Ideal Reader Personas you've created, you're going to want to pick one character to represent the majority of your ideal "market". From there, use your imagination to flesh out the following details: What's their age, education, location, demographic, occupation? What are the facts you know about this person? Do they need to earn more money? Change careers? Have more time in the day? Master a skill? Be the first to know about everything? What are their problems and pain-points? Introverted or extroverted? What are their rituals and routines? Where do they hang out IRL and online? What do they eat? How do they learn — visually, audibly, by reading? Individual traits and behaviours: Do they need to learn how to start a business? How to attract and retain customers? How to use a product or specific software? What are their current, practical needs? (Here's a hint — check your own search history:) Putting this all together, you should have a really clear map of who it is you're creating content for — which is always a smart place to start the content planning and writing process. Step 4: Sketch Out Your Reader Journey Map This is an exercise that'll help you define your content distribution strategy by putting yourself in the shoes of your readers, and understanding the pathways they'll take towards you meeting their needs. AKA: what are these people probably searching on Google? Make a list of potential search phrases and long-tail questions that you could target with your content. Start with your vision statement, and the goals you outlined for your ideal readers. For HackerNoon, for example, we get a lot of direct traffic, and we get a lot of organic traffic. That tells us two things: first, our brand is strong enough in the market that people type directly into their browsers, or bookmark us, or whatever; and second, people are discovering our content because they're searching for answers to problems we publish about. Ask yourself, how will my ideal audiences discover my content? hackernoon.com Does your blog post need a YouTube tutorial embed? How might you atomise this content to be consumed entirely on social media? What about a newsletter or podcast? Should you create an ebook? Try to imagine how your ideal readers would most enjoy engaging with your content, in order to reach their goals. Here's an example of what a product management user roadmap traditionally looks like: And here's the same principle, applied to : content marketing's inbound methodology 📌 Step 5: Define Your Content Strategy, Goals, and Focus The purpose of this exercise is to gain clarity on your longer-term strategy; establish your USPs for branding and differentiation; and foresee any potential blockers to success. Documenting your goals is a decision you make about the most important parts of the project that is, in this case, your writing career. Here's how to start getting clear on your content strategy, goals, and focus: What would the outcome of my content creation efforts look like, if I was wildly successful? In one month: [ Goal 1 ] In three months: [ Goal 2 ] In six months: [ Goal 3 ] Write our six month goal out as a statement, as though you've already achieved it. for example: In the last six months, I published 100,000 words and created 3 months reading time. I also started a podcast/super niche TikTok account/LinkedIn community, built my personal website, and got my first 100 signups on my newsletter..! Play the pessimist for a second and ask the hard questions: What are the potential blockers to my success? What are my current challenges? What do I need to prioritise to overcome them? How can I turn the daily challenges I face into #relatable-content? What sets me apart from other creators in my niche? Whats the most meaningful thing I could focus in order to rise above the noise? What unique perspectives and experiences do I bring to this subject? Which influencers and creators could I collaborate with to reach relevant audiences? 💭 I’d love to hear your feedback on this approach to developing brand and content strategy. Why not ? 😉 get your commentary published on HackerNoon See you around , Planet Internet Natasha ✌️💗 ✨

How To Develop Your Brand Strategy and Content Plan in 3 Hours 

Education has always had a significant impact on people around the world. We all remember the memories from kindergarten through high school. And it is not easy to forget our memories from college to the start of your working life. Even though we consider education to be a one-room and a red-brick schoolhouse, it has evolved. Education now is a booming industry that has already seen immense growth and is still rapidly expanding. Companies and investors in this industry know and recognize all the various trends that continue to help in the growth. And that is also why many substantial educational companies are not just growing but going public as well. In this article, we will talk about the rise of EdTech unicorns and the Duolingo IPO. EdTech Unicorns Many EdTech startups are launched every day. And a lot of them end up failing as they did not learn from the mistakes and the success of other education companies in the industry. But when it comes to EdTech unicorns, not all startups can be called unicorns . ( you can see Eqvista's complete list of 2021 unicorns here ) Let's begin by talking about the industry, and then we will define what an EdTech unicorn is. EdTech Industry Overview The EdTech industry is a vast and rapidly growing one. You can find every kind of company here, from startups and middle-market companies to even public companies. The companies in this industry are not only getting the attention of veterans but also from general investors too. We all know that there are three key education categories including: Prek-12 Post-secondary Corporate training With technology infused in all these parts, a learner is always in contact with technology. And each of these sectors has its own sub-segment in the industry. Moreover, each category is different and has unique buyers, end-users, and funding mechanisms. The growth of each has been shared below: - , about $1.7 billion in venture capital was invested in the EdTech market in 2019 itself for over 105 deals. And most of these investments were of the Series C round. US EdTech VC investments As per EdSurge - There was about $18.7 billion investment made on a worldwide scale in learning technology supplies in 2019, as per . Global learning technology investment Metaari - A report by showed that $7 billion venture capital funding was invested in educational institutions all over the world in 2019. Seeing its comparison to $0.5 billion VC funds invested in 2010, there is a prediction that this amount will triple in the next decade. Global venture investment HolonIQ - Other than VC funds, a lot of private equity funds are being raised too for being invested in the education sector. In addition to this, the education sector is being categorized as the "impact" sector, which is attracting many investors who want to have an impact in the world. Private equity funds for EdTech investments - A considerable part of the EdTech market is from publicly traded companies. In the USA alone, there are about 29 companies with $71 billion capital as of January 2020. Publicly traded EdTech companies In short, the EdTech industry is actually very vast and growing every day. What is an EdTech Unicorn? EdTech is basically the practice of introducing IT tools in education to make learning more engaging, inclusive, better, and for an individualized learning experience too. With this said, what is a "unicorn?" "Unicorn" in the business world and VC world describes a privately held startup that has a value of $1 billion or more. This term was coined by Aileen Lee, the founder of Cowboy Ventures. So, how do we differentiate an EdTech unicorn from the rest? Well, the first step is to check all the startups to see which ones are EdTech unicorns and which are not. To explain better, some startups have a value of more than $1 billion, like Roblox. But this company has its feet in different industries and not just in the EdTech one. So you need to identify the handful of companies both in the Education and Technology industry with a value of over $1 billion. Top Edu-Tech Unicorn Startups in the World There are many recognizable EdTech unicorn startups in the world. Here are the top 10 that you should know: - Valued at $1 billion in 2016 Age of Learning - Valued at $1 billion in 2018 BYJU'S - Valued at $1 billion in 2020 Course Hero - Valued at $1 billion in 2019 Coursera - Valued at $1.5 billion in 2019 Duolingo - Valued at $1 billion in 2019 Guild Education - Valued at $1 billion in 2019 Knowbox - Valued at $1 billion in 2020 Quizlet - Valued at $1 billion in 2015 Udacity - Valued at $2 billion in 2020 Udemy Out of these, we will be talking about Duolingo and its decision to go public through an IPO. Duolingo IPO is a Pittsburgh-based company that offers language learning resources and tools via its mobile app, website, and assessment platform. Anyone can easily learn up to 40 languages through Duolingo. The company was started in 2011 by a computer science professor named Luis Von Ahn with his postgraduate student, Severin Hacker. This professor also started the bot-detection company - CAPTCHA, which was sold to Google. He then decided to start this company to solve the problem of expensive language courses for everyone. Duolingo The company grew over the years till it finally became a unicorn in 2019. It has about 10 million users and is rapidly increasing. And now, in July 2021, the company went public, changing the face of the EdTech industry. Now, Duolingo has some 300 million global users of its technology. This has also led the company to have about 1k global employees and about $161 million in revenue! Why is Duolingo's IPO Great News for the EdTech Industry? Duolingo has been growing rapidly since it entered the scene in the EdTech industry. It has raised a lot of funding till now and has hundreds of millions of users, thanks to its free language resources. And with all the rapid growth, the company decided that it was time to go public. And on 28th July 2021, under the ticker DUOL, the company went public on Nasdaq. The company has raised about $521 million through the sale of 5.1 million shares during the IPO. The price of the shares at this time was $141.40 a share. This also brought the value of the company to $5 billion after the sale. Thanks to this step taken by the company, it has changed the face of the EdTech industry. Although EdTech companies are growing and people value education, Duolingo has just shown that not only do tech companies have the way to reach the top, but also the EdTech companies. It has given hope to many others that their growth doesn't have to stop, and they too can conquer it all. Edu-Tech Industry Trends and Predictions With all these changes in the EdTech industry, we can expect more extraordinary things to come ahead for the industry. But two topics have the most impact - online learning and emerging technologies. Both these trends have been talked about briefly below: : The last decade has had a lot of hype around online learning. And by 2019, a lot of things had changed. As a matter of fact, investors are much more inclined to invest in online education. Private equity-backed providers are looking for opportunities to expand the online K-12 market. And the prominent non-profit players are focusing more on higher education. Moreover, India and China are attracting a lot of capital for their Edutech startups. Online learning will grow more in 2021 : Again, in the last decade, we have seen all the new technologies being used in education from books to the radio, from computers to the internet and so on. Even though there have been failures, IT experts keep working towards finding a way to use technology and improve the learner's experience. Due to this, many investors have an interest in investing in such projects. Talk about anything like VR, AR, and Robotics too; everyone part of the education industry is attracting investors and the industry growth. Emerging technologies will be used in education Wrap Up EdTech is a diverse and enormous industry that keeps growing. In fact, this industry will keep growing as people will never stop learning. And this opens a new gate of opportunities for everyone, as we have seen with the Duolingo IPO. If you are planning to start an education company, then this is a good time. And if you already have one, then you are in luck as you can pitch to investors and gain more expansion.

Notes on Duolingo's IPO and the Rise of EdTech Unicorns

HackerNoon Reporter: Please tell us briefly about your background. My name is Wei Jiang, and I am a pharmacist by training, having practiced at a local hospital before going back to the National University of Singapore (NUS) for my postgraduate studies. I received a scholarship from NUS Graduate School for Integrative Sciences and Engineering (NGS) to pursue a concurrent double degree in Ph.D. (Formulation Work & Drug Delivery) and an MBA from NUS business school, with a finance specialization. What's your startup called? And in a sentence or two, what does it do? Our startup is Craft Health Pte Ltd. We are a healthcare company building the platform to lead the world’s transition towards 3D printed personalized healthcare. What is the origin story? Since our undergraduate days, I knew my fellow co-founder, Dr. Seng Han LIM, and we met again while pursuing our post-graduate studies. We wanted to do more translational work and decided to pursue entrepreneurship. In our penultimate year of graduate studies, we thought we should work together to solve the problem of complex medication regimens. Having practiced for several years at a local hospital, we saw many patients going home with bags of medicines and often complicated medication regimes. These include medicines for diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol. To further complicate the already complex dosing, some medicines are taken at different times of the day or required to be taken before or after meals. We brainstormed and explored many possible solutions, before narrowing it down to 3D printing, where Seng Han had spent his Ph.D. working on. Craft Health was then incorporated. Basically, we drive innovation using 3D printing as the technology enabler across age-old polypharmacy issues or too many medicines. We have developed our GMP-ready 3D printer (CraftMake™) for pharmaceuticals that do not use heat or UV curing, and a range of 3D printable formulations as the ink (CraftBlends™) that is able to control how fast/slow or when the active ingredient is released. The result is that we can 3D print multiple active ingredients or medicines into several layers of the same polypill, each with its own distinct profile. This means we can have a blood pressure medicine for sustained release (over 4 to 6 hours), a before food/after food combination (delayed-release), and a pain killer for immediate release (released within 15 minutes), all in the same 3D printed polypill. What do you love about your team, and why are you the ones to solve this problem? Our team is highly complementary. Seng Han has been 3D printing for almost a decade now, and both of us have previous experience in formulation work and practiced as pharmacists previously. Combined, we have experience and expertise in 3D printing, formulation work, pharmacy practice, and business development. This allows us to operate at the intersection of 3D printing and pharmaceuticals. This means that we are always innovating on what else our 3D printing platform can do. For instance, we have used our knowledge of 3D printing and materials to develop a second product under Craft Health: the Super Long Release (SLR) technology. Basically, this is a 3D printed capsule that is able to float in the gastric environment for 7 days, releasing the drug over a week, and eventually breaking apart and being removed by the body’s natural physiological processes from day 8. Effectively we can convert once daily dosing to once weekly. The product is currently undergoing laboratory testing. If you weren’t building your startup, what would you be doing? While doing my Ph.D. & MBA, my original goal was to join a fund targeting healthcare. At the moment, how do you measure success? What are your core metrics? Technology adoption. So far, we have had several supplement companies approach us for manufacturing 3D printed supplements, hospitals for polypills (combining multiple medicines into a single pill), and discussions about potentially out-licensing our technology to a pharmaceutical company. What’s most exciting about your traction to date? Working with the hospitals for adoption. I think this would mean we have come one full circle. We were inspired by the issue of polypharmacy in the hospital, and if we could eventually get 3D printing of medicines done in the hospitals it would be great. What technologies are you currently most excited about and most worried about? And why? 3D printing in the pharmaceutical space. We have seen 3D printing gained tremendous traction in areas such as aerospace parts, construction of whole buildings, and medical devices. We believe that 3D printing of pharmaceuticals is currently the frontier technology approaching mainstream adoption. We are able to use 3D printing to further value add to the patient, personalizing attributes such as dose, number of medicines, release profiles, and even color & shapes. However, we still need to educate the market on the various use cases as well as the regulatory concerns. What drew you to get published on HackerNoon? What do you like most about our platform? The broad range of articles and the very frank approach to the topics discussed. What advice would you give to the 21-year-old version of yourself? Don’t hesitate to do a start-up. You will learn more in a year than any degree course. What is something surprising you've learned this year that your contemporaries would benefit from knowing? It is also good to look into other fields for inspiration in your own field, especially when you hit a roadblock. For instance, we have borrowed concepts in the semiconductor industry and applied them to our 3D printing production line. Vote for Craft Health as the . best startup in Singapore

How Craft Health is Driving Healthcare Innvovation Using 3D Printing

Medicine and technology go hand in hand, but careers in both fields are as distinct as tacos and sushi. The job of a med tech is unique for a reason: clinical medicine and technological sciences are involved. In simple terms, med tech or a medical technologist is a health worker who assists the physician or major health provider in the collection and testing of samples from patients to provide a better diagnosis. The hybrid job of a med tech is in very high demand: however, the pay could be improved upon to increase job satisfaction and motivate more people who want to be med techs. Job Description for Med Techs: What Does A Med Tech Do? The job description of a med tech is quite broad: it may range from sample collection to helping nurse patients to diagnostic tests and even research. The samples collected to determine the source of your health problems can be urine, blood, saliva, cerebrospinal fluid, ascitic fluid(fluid from a swollen belly, usually in chronic kidney disease), hair, nails, etc. A med-tech is called a nursing assistant in some hospitals for a good reason: the med-tech may help dress and bathe patients, serve meals, assist patients with feeding and help patients move from their beds to their wheelchairs. The workload for a med-tech is large: this is why they often work many shifts and even on . holidays In addition, a med-tech may also assist the physician by helping carry out diagnostic tests such as a red blood cell count, white blood cell count, platelet count, blood culture, bacterial studies, bone marrow studies, urinalysis, fasting blood glucose, pregnancy test among others. Research work for a med-tech may include virus biology, DNA studies, electron microscopy, IVF laboratory work, infection control, e.t.c. All these work lines involve the use of sophisticated technological equipment in a research laboratory: hence the job of a med-tech can be best described as hybrid. Advantages: What’s in it For Me if I Become a Med Tech? For people who want to build a career in healthcare without spending a lot of years in medical or nursing school, the job of a med tech is a good option. It takes between four to five years to get a med tech degree depending on your region. The shorter time frame will reduce costs like tuition, food, book purchases, accommodation, and student loans. The med-tech career offers diverse opportunities: you can work in a hospital, laboratory, and even market laboratory . The med-tech can conduct laboratory tests, participate in research studies, oversee other laboratory technicians, teach students, and also run a laboratory equipment business. Medical technological devices such as blood pressure kits, pregnancy test kits, glucometers, pulse oximeters can be sold by the med-tech depending on regional policies. equipment Med techs earn an annual salary of between $30000 to over $50000 US Dollars depending on the job . However, the top med techs earn way higher and career growth is a great possibility. Acquiring professional certification or postgraduate degrees will increase your earning power as a med tech. In addition, because of the high demand for medical technologists, job security is often guaranteed as a med tech. description Job Requirements: What Do I Need to Become a Med Tech? In the US, you will need an associate degree or bachelor's degree to become a med tech. You may have a bachelor's degree in Science Laboratory Technology, Virology, Histopathology, or any other health field. Hospital training or military training may be required. In some cases, on-the-job training will be . provided Depending on your region, you may have to take licensing exams for a license that may require a renewal for every specific period. You can also expand your knowledge by taking some online in your given field as well as internships in a laboratory or hospital. courses In addition to having clinical skills, soft skills are also required to be a good med tech. A med-tech collaborates with the physician, nurse, and other health workers for the benefit of the patient: the ability to work well in a team is required. Other qualities that you need to be a good med-tech include paying attention to details, the ability to think on your feet, being hardworking, patience as well as empathy. It is also important to understand the basic laboratory rules: you can not eat or drink in the laboratory, personal protective equipment should be worn, do not store samples with drinks, samples are to be transported as swiftly and carefully as possible, etc. The med-tech may also be required to work long hours and on holidays, so keep that in mind. Despite the seemingly large requirements, the job of a med tech can be very fulfilling if you are passionate about your job. Med Tech: The Future The rising demand for med techs is proof of one fact: the job is very important and re-enumeration will increase in the nearest future. The BLS predicts that by 2029, the jobs in will grow by 7%, which is 4% more than other jobs. The job of a med-tech is diverse and it offers a career path that guarantees stability and growth. If you are a college student who doesn't want to deal with the long years of medical school or the stress of nursing school, then maybe med tech is for you. You can watch this of a day in the life of a med-tech to guide your decision-making: send me money when you get your first job. med-tech video

What is a Med Tech? - All You Need To Know About The Hybrid Job

Gold price forecasters are not worth more than an umbrella in a hurricane. There are ever-changing variables, such that even the most educated people usually miss the mark in forecasting prices. With COVID-19 sweeping the world, many wonder what the price of gold will be since it is considered a safe-haven asset. The following forecast is based on an analysis of historical data as well as current market conditions. The impact of US debt and money printing The most influential factor is the growing US budget deficit. The US national debt stands at approximately and is climbing exponentially. A raise in taxes, spending cuts or debasing the US dollar are among the options the government will need to explore in order to service their debt. The Federal Reserve’s asset purchases are at an all time high, having increased by 41% last month. This entails the Federal Reserve having to print an extra $1.7 trillion dollars to buy these assets back and inject money into the system. $24 trillion Source: St. Louis Fed Gold performs well during financial crises Unlike fiat currencies, gold has held its intrinsic value for thousands of years. Historical analysis shows a 13% rise in the gold price during the Great recession as well as a 25.5% increase after the 2007–9 recession. The chart below analyses the S&P’s performance compared to that of gold, again reinforcing a bullish outlook for gold. Source: World Gold Council How does the current market crisis compare? Feb 20, 2020 — Apr 7 2020: S&P -22%, Gold +2% Confidence in the financial system vanishes in times of a financial crisis, which historically has been very fruitful for gold as highlighted in the graph below. In all cases, the price of this precious metal initially declined before rising. This pattern can be witnessed during the Latin American debt crisis (1982), the burst of the Japanese stock market bubble (1990), the Asian financial crisis (1997), the burst of the dot-com bubble (2000) and the 2007–9 financial crisis. Source: Sunshine profits Consider a new way of investing in gold With blockchain technology firmly established as a secure accounting method and with Bitcoin’s growing global presence, a new era of gold-backed investing is emerging. A proverbial and literal gold rush is happening, with governments even planning to issue their own gold-backed cryptocurrency. Two major gold-backed tokens have caught the eye of investors, Paxos Gold (PAXG) and Tether Gold (XAUT). Each PAXG and XAUT token is backed by one fine troy ounce (t oz) of a 400 oz London Good Delivery gold bar. Invictus Capital, a modern asset manager, recently announced the , that gives exposure to gold and provides the opportunity to earn a yield on gold.. The long term goal of the fund is to outperform gold as a long-term benchmark. Invictus Gold Plus Fund (IGP) Gold’s strong historical performance and continued strength continues to provide investors with a solid investment alternative to the traditional staples. Despite short-term price volatility, the uncertainty surrounding the financial implications of the coronavirus continue to solidify gold as a store of value and vehicle for capital preservation. Disclaimer: The author is an employee at Invictus Capital. His views are his own. Nothing on this blog constitutes investment advice. Do your own research. About Author: Omer Iqbal is the Head of Business Growth at Invictus Capital. He is an experienced financial service professional with a background in Investment and Financial Management. Omer’s skills and expertise include financial instruments valuations, cryptocurrency investments, financial modeling as well as relationship building with existing and potential clients. He holds an undergraduate degree in Investment Management and a postgraduate Honours degree in Financial management and management accounting. His work experience includes working as an auditor for Nolands and as well as a traditional investment analyst for FedGroup. Also published on: https://medium.com/@omer_6674/why-gold-investments-should-weather-the-covid-storm-in-2020-ad0f52fee6ae

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