POW with Tiong

Tiong, also known as KJ, is a Web3 enthusiast and an on-chain data nerd. Being a multipotentialite, Tiong has demonstrated experience in various industries across APAC.

What were you doing before Web3?

During my second year of university, I started as an intern in various firms. I had the opportunity to get exposed to digital marketing, business development, as well as had a fair taste of investment banking.

I was then hired as a full-time animation producer for an advertising and media company based in Singapore, and yes, I was still a student during that time.

Now, I work in the corporate scene as a strategy consultant.

How did you get into Web3?

During my junior year in university, where I was an animation producer for a company based in Singapore, my boss introduced me to DeFi and how it challenges the status quo of the current banking system.

I had the chance to be mentored about all things Web3 while getting paid. It was like getting the best of both worlds!

Later, he offered me a job to work with him on another venture, and that’s where I started working as an Associate Research Analyst, covering on-chain analyses and streamlining a cryptocurrency research framework for the company’s crypto investments.

What was your first crypto or NFT project?

My very first crypto was Bitcoin, which I bought around early 2015 on Coins.ph app. I was persuaded by my friend who had an early interest in all things “decentralised” during our time in high school.

My first involvement in the NFT scene was with NBA Top Shot in late 2020.

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

As an on-chain data nerd, I look at information on a computer program called a blockchain. I try to understand how people are using the blockchain and what it can tell us about the future. It’s like being a detective for computer money!

Which creator or thought leader do you enjoy learning from?

I love all things stoicism from Ryan Holiday. A daily dose of knowledge about power, strategy, and cognitive biases by Robert Greene is a must. And of course, Taylor Swift for all things leadership and work ethic.

What is the biggest highlight of your career so far?

Probably giving myself a chance to share my knowledge about personal finance and Web3 to anyone who needs it.

I am beyond elated to see those curious-minded individuals who just asked a simple question about “How does blockchain work” or “What’s your take on community building in Web 3,” which then led to an endless conversation about this industry.

Now I’m excited to see their Web3 career being accelerated.

I know that I have a lot of things to learn, and life is a continuous learning process. I’m still in my twenties, and I want to commit mistakes as much as possible, learn from them, and try any other possibilities that will come my way.

What tech or crypto trend are you watching this year?

As of writing, I’m keeping an eye on all things Zero Knowledge Proof, Non-Transferable Tokens, as well as fully on-chain games.

What advice would you give someone starting out in Web3?

Trust, but verify. Take everything with a grain of salt. May it be information about blockchain or Web3 from an individual or from an article online.

Also, don’t be afraid to make mistakes. We’ve been programmed to always strive for perfection. In a world that’s constantly evolving, it’s important to have a growth mindset and learn from your mistakes, instead of being paralyzed by the fear of failure.

It will make us more grounded and give us the grit and perseverance to try again. Web3 is full of opportunities for those who are open to learning and embracing its full essence.

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

“Blockchain and Privacy: How Zero-Knowledge Proofs are Reshaping Data Security” or “On-Chain Analysis: What the Blockchain Can Teach Us About Human Behavior”

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

Definitely a Swiss Army knife.

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.