The crypto industry in 2024 is the place to be and build a career. What would it take to come out on the top? What is it like? Read the stories of crypto entrepreneurs who have made it to success to learn!
Michael Ou, Founder and CEO of CoolBitX Ltd.
In the dynamic world of cryptocurrency, Michael Ou’s journey stands out as a story of visionary leadership and pioneering spirit. As the Founder and CEO of CoolBitX Ltd, Michael has contributed to transforming the landscape of blockchain security and crypto management. Michael’s journey began in 2014 when he identified the demand for secure digital asset storage. Driven by the desire to enhance the convenience and security of crypto transactions, he founded CoolBitX. The launch of CoolWallet, the world’s first mobile-focused hardware wallet, revolutionized the industry. This sleek, credit-card-sized device has set new standards for security and user-friendliness. Recognizing the need for robust regulatory compliance solutions, Michael introduced Sygna, the first attestable end-to-end KYC solution for virtual asset service providers. This platform recently passed rigorous cross-border cryptocurrency transaction tests audited by a Big 4 accounting firm, solidifying CoolBitX’s reputation as an industry leader. Under Michael’s leadership, CoolWallet Pro, the flagship product of CoolBitX, epitomizes the company’s dedication to self-custodial crypto security and convenience. With over 300,000 loyal users and $3 billion in assets secured, CoolWallet Pro stands out for its robust features, including cold and hot wallets, staking, and swapping capabilities. Moreover, it empowers users to seamlessly navigate the complexities of DeFi, trading, and NFTs, making it indispensable to explore the full potential of Web3. Michael Ou’s journey is a testament to innovation, leadership, and a relentless commitment to security, inspiring countless others in the rapidly evolving crypto landscape. His story proves that with vision and determination, anything is possible.
Andrew Wind, CPO of SwapSpace
Andrew Wind, the CPO at SwapSpace, is steering one of the most trusted projects in the crypto industry today. SwapSpace has grown from a small DEX aggregator into a true crypto hub with 25+ partners, hundreds of exchange pairs, and multiple bridging options.
Andrew’s journey into the tech world is marked by early fascination, working on sophisticated tech solutions such as early AI systems and personalized e-commerce platforms. These experiences taught him that even small innovations could significantly impact users’ lives, a principle that firmly made it into his ventures in cryptocurrency.
Andrew’s academic background is far removed from FinTech. He studied journalism and got a master’s degree in philosophy. His career also began in a completely different domain, one of his first notable jobs being marketing project manager in real estate, where he learned the ropes of team management and analytical skills.
In 2017, during the ICO boom, Andrew’s curiosity led him to purchase his first cryptocurrencies, Ripple and Ether. Although his primary focus remained on his AI projects, crypto was an absorbing side activity. The major crypto boom of 2020, driven by meme coins and innovative protocols, marked a turning point for Andrew. He joined a team working on a cross-chain DEX service and later spearheaded the development of an L1 network focused on security.
In 2023, Andrew joined SwapSpace, now leading the product team. He is thrilled by the vast opportunities to innovate and build in the Web3 space, bringing his extensive expertise to develop the next generation of blockchain solutions.
Igor Zelenovski, Founder and CEO of ChangeHero
Michael Ou’s success story became true thanks to his perseverance and acuity. Andrew Wind advanced his career a step further by foraying into burgeoning tech fields. Likewise, the success story of ChangeHero’s CEO is one where expertise meets bold career changes.
Even though today he is working at the cutting edge of finance and technology, Igor was an educator at the start of his career. He took the first plunge into the unknown even before blockchain was a thing by quitting a higher school position to start a consulting business. The decision would soon prove to be the right one as it acted as his breakthrough into practicing management and international finance.
By the time Bitcoin’s blockchain launched, he had already held positions in upper management and consultancy while running businesses of his own. Igor first heard of cryptocurrencies in 2012 but the disruptive potential of digital assets truly captured his interest in 2016.
By 2017, he resolved to take another bold career move and assembled a team of blockchain pros to found ChangeHero. Bringing together a team that is distributed across the globe served to challenge and improve his strategic thinking and people management skills.
Today, ChangeHero is a crypto company with almost seven years in the market, over 50 employees, and an excellent track record. Dozens of high-profile partners, including CoolBitX and SwapSpace, and thousands of users trust this crypto swap service.