Viaka Newsletter: Adaptive, culturally-sensitive digital mental health with Alexandra Assouad!
Our weekly newsletter shines a spotlight on members of our Viaka Network. Plus, you'll find relevant job postings, upcoming events, and reading materials. Subscribe below!
This week, we sat down with Alexandra Assouad, co-founder of Mind-Easy!
What do you currently do?
I am currently the CEO and Co-Founder of Mind-Easy, an innovative platform that bridges the gap between software and well-being through adaptive health. We're striving to transform the mental health sector by creating a therapeutic experience that perpetually evolves and tailors itself to the unique attributes and challenges faced by each individual.
What led you to work on this? What's the "origin story" behind your current job(s)?
The inception of Mind-Easy was deeply personal. Following the tragic Beirut explosion in August 2020, I recognized the acute scarcity of therapists who could genuinely understand the unique cultural nuances and values of someone from Beirut. I wanted to create a solution that considered the deeply entrenched cultural values and distinct challenges individuals face. Hence, Mind-Easy was born, combining a taxonomy of human attributes with cutting-edge AI software to offer a dynamic therapeutic experience that continually adapts to its user.
Why are you interested in connecting with MENA's 'global startup community'?
Having been born and raised in Beirut, the MENA region holds a special place in my heart. I believe there's a wealth of untapped potential, innovation, and creativity in the MENA startup community. Engaging with fellow entrepreneurs and innovators from the region not only connects me back to my roots but also provides an opportunity for cross-collaboration, learning, and sharing best practices. I'm eager to both contribute to and learn from the vibrant ecosystem.
What's your favourite part of the Viaka Network thus far?
While I've cherished every moment within the Viaka Network, it's the sense of camaraderie and unity that stands out the most. The network is a confluence of like-minded individuals who are not just passionate about their ventures but are also eager to uplift and support others. A memorable experience was the Healthcare pitch session!
How can members of the Viaka Network (and beyond) be most helpful to you and your work right now?
As Mind-Easy continues to grow and evolve, feedback is invaluable. I'd greatly appreciate members trying our platform and offering insights on user experience, interface, and overall efficacy. Additionally, connections to mental health experts and professionals who can provide further depth to our adaptive health modules would be beneficial. Lastly, partnerships or collaborations that can help us penetrate markets and scale our reach would be of immense value.
Bonus: favorite dish from the MENA world?
That would undoubtedly be Kibbeh! It's a nostalgic dish that transports me back to the family gatherings in Beirut and embodies the rich flavors and traditions of the MENA region.
Viaka Member Hub
Based on Member feedback, I set up a one-stop shop for everything Viaka, always easily accessible through the "For Members" tab on the Viaka website. You can also access it here.
Watch a demo video below outlining all the Hub's features 👇
Upcoming Events
Below is a list of upcoming events from the Viaka Network & beyond over the next couple of weeks!
FinTech Innovation Labs is hosting a webinar on November 9th about the Lab and its programs
Bionl.ai is hosting a webinar on November 11th about how its platform accelerates literature review and data analysis.
SVB is hosting an awesome panel in Dubai on November 12th on today’s funding environment and more!
@ Viaka Network members in Riaydh, Dubai, Boston & Montreal - keep an eye on out for invites to small-format events in those cities
If you’d like to share an event in this newsletter, we encourage you to join the Viaka Network and share the event with info@viaka.net!
Work Opportunities
Recent job openings from the Viaka Network & beyond. If you apply, let me know so I can also make a personal introduction.
SVB is hiring an Associate for their Global Gateway team - Apply here
Atticus Grinder is looking for a part-time SDR for Gazer Labs - Apply here
MoneyHash is hiring for Product Marketing & Growth roles - Apply here
If you’d like to share a job posting in this newsletter, we encourage you to join the Viaka Network and share the event with info@viaka.net!
Reads of the Week
Network members are encouraged to submit media suggestions to our Reading List
Gogoro: electrifying Asia's scooters While not specific to MENA, I found this piece super relevant and interesting. In emerging market cities across the world, two/three wheelers are essential means of transportation for huge segments of the population. Unfortunately, current gas-powered scooter’s contribute terribly to the smog and pollution that plagues these cities. Gogoro is breaking down barriers to electric scooter adoption in innovative (and profitable) ways!
Check out Viaka’s full reading list here.
That’s it for this week. Thank you! 👋
Like what you see? Here are some things you should do: