Featuring Benny Pekala Head of Development at Cryptan Labs
Web 3, a term that describes the next generation of the internet, is a rapidly growing ecosystem that is changing the way we interact with the internet. With its focus on decentralization, transparency, and security, the Web 3 ecosystem is providing new opportunities for individuals and businesses to take control of their data and interactions online.
To be successful in the Web 3 ecosystem, there are a few key resources and tools that you should be familiar with. These include:
- Blockchain platforms: Blockchain technology is at the heart of the Web 3 ecosystem. Spend time understanding how it works and the features it offers. Bitcoin is the most widely known blockchain, and Ethereum is the most used for building applications. Being new to the space it is valuable to learn the story behind both of these. If you are planning to build an application that uses blockchain technology, spend additional time understanding the Ethereum Virtual Machine and learning how Smart Contracts and dApps can be built using it. There are additional blockchains gaining popularity that are also insightful to learn about and having an understanding of Bitcoin and Ethereum will help as you explore more.
- Decentralized storage: To store data in a decentralized manner, you can use platforms such as IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) and Filecoin. These platforms allow you to store data on a decentralized network of computers rather than on a centralized server. This is a valuable technology for products that involve digital ownership because something hosted on a decentralized system protects against a central source removing your ownership.
- Decentralized exchanges: With the rise of decentralized finance (DeFi), decentralized exchanges (DEXs) are becoming increasingly popular. DEXs allow you to trade cryptocurrencies without the need for a centralized intermediary. Some examples of DEXs include Uniswap, SushiSwap, and Kyber Network. Make sure to DYOR (do your own research) and talk to trusted experts about the DEXs you use prior to funding any accounts.
- Web3 browsers: To access dApps and interact with the Web 3 ecosystem, you will need a web3-enabled browser. We recommend Google Chrome with the Metamask extension on desktop and the Metamask browser on mobile. Other popular options include MetaMask, Trust Wallet, and MyEtherWallet. These browsers allow you to connect to the Ethereum network and interact with dApps and smart contracts. You will be able to learn about web3 and explore without a wallet connected, but when it comes time to connect make sure to use a Web3 enabled browser.
- Development tools: To build dApps, you will need to be familiar with smart contract programming languages such as Solidity (for Ethereum, Polygon, Binance Smart Chain), and Rust (for Solana, Polkadot, Near). You will also need to use development frameworks such as Truffle and Embark. Moralis, OpenZeppelin and many other tools. The easiest place to get started with this is by going to the website of the chain/ecosystem you would like to build in and following their tutorials. Youtube is also a fantastic resource.
- Community: The Web3 ecosystem is a rapidly evolving space and staying up to date with the latest developments is key. Joining communities online that talk about web3 and host events is a great way to stay informed and connect with other developers and enthusiasts. There are popular groups on many platforms, especially Telegram, Twitter, and Reddit.
- Get passionate: It is only the beginning of the Web 3 Era, passionate individuals are the building blocks of any new innovative industries.
One of these passionate individuals is Benny Pekala, an entrepreneur and blockchain enthusiast who joined the Web 3 industry in 2021 after discovering the potential of decentralized technology to reshape the way we interact with the internet. He was drawn to the transparency, security, and decentralization that the Web 3 ecosystem offers and the opportunity that motivated individuals have to use these technical advantages and create applications and value propositions never seen before.
Benny states “ As a computer science nerd and someone who has made their living building mobile and web apps I have been personally interested and involved in blockchain for years, however it was when a partner of mine reached out to see if my team wanted to collaborate on building the technology for an NFT collection that I first got involved with building blockchain solutions. After that first build I became passionate about expanding that ability and knowledge.”
To fully immerse himself in the industry, Benny relocated to Miami, a city that has become a hub for blockchain innovation and development. His company Birdwell Solutions specializes in building decentralized applications and providing consulting services for businesses looking to adopt blockchain technology and Miami was a fantastic place to find partners and get more involved.
In addition to running Birdwell Solutions, Benny co-founded and is the Head of Development at Cryptan Labs, an emerging tech incubator that runs a web3 accelerator program for startups and partners with enterprise brands to build and launch products. As Head of Development, Benny advises startup companies in the accelerator and leads the development teams.
Benny’s passion for blockchain and decentralized technology is evident in his dedication to the Web 3 ecosystem, and his work with Birdwell Solutions and Cryptan Labs is helping to drive innovation and adoption in the industry.
“One of the most inspiring and impactful things about the web3 ecosystem to me is that it is open to everyone and presents an opportunity for team members of any skillset to be leaders in their field and pioneers of new technology” Benny tells us “because this is so new there is a shortage of labor in almost all categories, and there are so many ideas and possibilities that have not yet been explored.”
When asked what Benny would recommend to anyone considering joining the space he enthusiastically told us “now is the time for anyone curious to get involved! Even if you are simply joining communities and following along with the trends. If you are considering a career move or considering starting a business using this technology – dive in! I recommend a combination of research through reading materials and networking through joining communities and asking for help. Before you know it you will be the one helping someone else. That may be the best part of web3, we are very welcoming and helpful to anyone new to the space that is motivated to bring their unique experience. If anyone is curious to ask more hit me up! If you are a business that is looking to get involved in the space I’m happy to help give you my recommendations about the opportunities that we see and give you access to our team of builders and advisors. Let’s build!” ” Benny can be reached at linktr.ee/bennypekala.
