I decided to become part of the virtual community by writing and posting some thought-provoking articles on innovation, entrepreneurship and digital transformation.

Since the beginning of my career, the entrepreneurship DNA was evident in me: in my first job I encouraged and created the very first brand of a lighting manufacturing company, and today I am proud to see that brand has grown and thrived. Following my natural path, I entered into an entrepreneurship challenge by creating and managing a design startup. With this, I not only had the joy of winning three entrepreneurship awards but also learned that failing is a big part of the journey of self-development.

Once I completed these challenges on my journey, I set out to accomplish an MBA level education. During this time I was selected to represent my business school in an international case competition in Canada. I, and my other three team members succeeded beyond all expectations by winning the Division Winner Prize. I hadn’t yet completed my MBA when I received a recommendation to join the business school’s team. I worked extremely hard at completing the strategy for the business unit, my sole mission at that time.

I created and implemented entirely new concepts and methodologies that the team still uses today. The challenges in the academic organisation grew and I naturally started developing new business contacts, which led to opportunities. I was then promoted by way of being selected to conduct a promising new project - an innovation hub.

This innovation hub became my mission for the next period of time. It became my 2nd home, and I am thrilled to have played a part in its creation. It has now become a firestarter, one that I am actively contributing to by continuing to build this creative and innovative community.

I believe that enabling people to make the right connections triggers innovation opportunities. I am confident that my energy, my empathy, my skills and my background only serve to reinforce the innovation ecosystem.

The most exciting entrepreneurs in Portugal surround me; they are shaping the future and preparing for what’s next, from Data Analytics, Cyber Security, Fintech, Industry 4.0 to Blockchain Technology. All of this thrills me, so I challenge you to stay tuned and join me in this quest for what’s next. My hope is that you will gain insights that can help you in your journey.

Part of the innovation hub community after a Design Thinking Bootcamp :D

Hope you like my next articles!

Sílvia Duarte

P.S: The street art artist Mr Dheo painted the fantastic Astraunaut