POW with Fidem TV

Fidem TV is a former Third Engineer turned content creator and Web3 advocate. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into how he as a marine engineer got started in Web3.

What were you doing before Web3?

Before Web3, I worked as a marine engineer. Specifically, I worked as a third engineer on an international oil tanker vessel. I was in charge of operating, maintaining, and repairing the mechanical and electrical systems of the vessel.

This included monitoring and maintaining the ship’s propulsion system, which comprised engines, turbines, and propellers. Besides that, I’m also designated to maintain the ship’s auxiliary systems, such as generators, pumps, and air conditioning systems.

How did you get into Web3?

Before I answer your question, allow me to share a brief story about my investing journey. I started investing in the stock market in late 2015 with a mere 25,000 pesos. At the time, my main goal was to grow my funds, and I believed that stocks presented a low-risk option.

However, I soon realized that stock price depreciation was causing me to lose money. In order to address this issue, I focused on gaining knowledge about the stock market. I learn how to trade, identify good stocks to invest in, and use indicators to determine good entry and exit points.

I invested in books and joined investment communities, which helped me learn and grow. With the help of the stock market, I was able to reach my first million at the age of 24 and double my funds in subsequent years.

I was also fortunate enough to spot DITO when it was trading for 2-3 PHP and accumulate a considerable amount of it. During this time, around 90% of my earnings from my job went into the stock market, and I was already earning a six-figure income.

Now, let’s return to your question about how I got into Web3. In 2018, my instructor at the training center discussed Bitcoin and how to purchase it. At the time, I was already investing in the stock market. However, I had a negative opinion of cryptocurrencies, believing them to be a scam.

I viewed digital currencies as a very risky investment and didn’t want to put my hard-earned money into them. However, in 2020, I made a surprising decision to transfer almost 80% of my funds from the stock market into cryptocurrency and bought USDT. This may come as a shock given my previous stance. However, over time, my perspective shifted as I learned more about the potential benefits of cryptocurrency.

What was your first crypto or NFT project?

It’s interesting how many people claim their first cryptocurrency was Bitcoin or Ethereum. Unless, of course, they purchased them directly through peer-to-peer transactions.

However, my first cryptocurrency was actually USDT, a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar. I eventually converted my USDT to buy some Ethereum. And my first foray into the world of NFTs was through the Axie NFT project.

I founded the SFC Guild with the goal of educating people about cryptocurrency and NFT games. With the help of other Axie managers, we were able to reach 12,000 members and 400 Axie Scholars. Our guild provides free assistance to Axie managers by helping them find qualified applicants to manage their Axies.

Through our guild, we’ve been able to help many scholars with their daily expenses, such as food, clothing, tuition fees, and medical bills during emergencies. Personally, I’ve invested a lot of money in Axie Infinity. I believe that there’s a sense of indescribable fulfillment that comes with changing people’s lives.

How would you explain what you do to someone outside of Web3?

Apart from trading cryptocurrencies and NFTs, I also create content, which includes step-by-step guides on how to begin one’s Web3 journey. I aim to keep my videos simple enough for newbies to easily understand.

Moreover, I make sure to use simple and precise language instead of complicated words to appear intelligent. Throughout my journey, I have onboarded numerous individuals into the world of Web3, and my approach has been tested and proven. Therefore, I will continue with my current style.

Which creator or thought leader do you enjoy learning from?

In life, there are only a few individuals that I hold in high regard, and I want to emphasize that my respect for them does not stem from their wealth. Rather, it is either because they have made a significant impact on my life or they have contributed to my personal growth.

I find myself drawn to Frank, the founder of Degods. I have learned valuable lessons from him not only in the realm of NFTs but also in life.

There are also other mentors who have helped me reach where I am today, and they are not widely known, but their teachings have been invaluable.

They have taught me how to lead others, value integrity, and understand that there are no shortcuts in life; one must work hard to succeed. I would like to express my gratitude to Captain Marjude, Chief Engr Marlon, and Second Engr Santua.

Furthermore, I would also like to acknowledge the community and one of the most exceptional mentors one could ever have. Ms. GK and the Traders Den Community, which she manages, have helped me tremendously on my trading journey. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in my growth as a trader.

What is the biggest highlight of your career so far?

After abandoning my career as a Marine Engineer, I decided to pursue streaming and content creation. It was a blessing to reach over 100k followers on TikTok, Facebook, and soon on YouTube. The most important thing is that I was able to help many people in my community using my earnings.

Recently, I successfully launched two NFT collections, one on Polygon and the other on Solana, which both sold out with the help of God, my team, and my community.

Now I’m  working on things that could bring more benefits, utilities and perks to my holders. You can visit our website to know more about our project. To God be all the Glory.

What tech or crypto trend are you watching this year?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field that has the potential to revolutionize many industries, including tech and crypto.

By integrating AI technology, businesses can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and provide better services to their customers.

In the crypto space, AI is being used to detect fraud, predict market trends, and develop new trading strategies.

Moreover, AI is also being used to create new decentralized applications that can help to automate various processes.Keeping an eye on AI developments in tech and crypto can provide valuable insights into the future of these industries and how they may change in the years to come.

What advice would you give someone starting out in Web3?

If you’re interested in delving into the world of Web3, crypto, and NFTs, it’s essential to prioritize learning and acquiring knowledge instead of just focusing on the potential gains.

Protecting your assets should also be a top priority since there are numerous scams in this industry. Not to mention, just one mistake could cause you to lose everything.

Although it’s natural to encounter losses, it’s crucial not to give up. If you need to take a break, do so, but don’t quit.

Always keep in mind that if you’re tired of starting over, don’t give up. There will come a time in your life when you’ll be grateful that you persisted and didn’t quit.

Humility is also essential, or else the market will humble you. Good luck on your journey.

If you could do a TEDtalk on any topic, what would it be?

If there were a topic I could discuss in a TED Talk, it would be my life story. I was not born into privilege, but I have worked tirelessly to get where I am today, and I would love to share my experiences with the world.

What is the one thing you would bring if you were stuck on a deserted Island?

If I were ever stranded on a deserted island, the one thing I would want with me is my wife.

She is a precious living thing with whom I would want to spend the rest of my life. However, I’m not selfish, and I know she would want to be with me too.

Together, we would figure out ways to survive and cherish the remaining days of our lives in this beautiful world.

POW stands for “Proof of Work.” It is a new feature article series in The Mega Maxi to highlight the savviest builders in the Web3 space.