Viaka Newsletter: Investing in emerging markets with Aboudi Al-Qattan
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 spoke with Aboudi Al-Qattan, investor with DASH Ventures
What are you currently working on?
Full-time, I'm the Principal at DASH Ventures where I've spent pretty much my entire career. I also recently launched a podcast and that has been a fantastic experience, albeit extremely difficult too.
What led you to work on this? What's the "origin story" behind your current job(s)?
For DASH, it's my passion to invest in emerging markets. I have incredible role models as colleagues who have empowered me to grow within this organization. For the podcast, the opportunity kind of fell into my lap but as soon as it did, I almost felt like I had an obligation to do it: the subject matter is something I inherently care about so it just felt right;
Why are you interested in connecting with MENA's 'global startup community'?
I believe we are inherently smart, kind, and collaborative people, and my ultimate goal in life is to build up the MENA ecosystem to the level I know it can reach;
What's your favorite part of the Viaka Network thus far? Do you have any memorable experiences or helpful connections made that you can share with me?
My favorite part of the network is you, Hani! I am truly so proud of your energy in trying to build this ecosystem, and as difficult as this is, I think you've done an incredible job so far. I really look forward to more events, more members, and more learnings. A moment so far I enjoyed was our in-person drinks in NYC last April.
How can members of the Viaka Network (and beyond) be most helpful to you and your work right now?
The VC space is so expansive that members can help in a myriad of ways—whether it be connecting me to funds that are interested in the DASH portico, providing pipeline, or even just exchanging ideas on how best to build our ecosystem, I am always looking to learn;
Bonus: favorite dish from the MENA world?
Technically it's Yemeni but I'm a Shish Barak kind of guy.
If you’d like to connect with Aboudi, and others like him, join the Viaka Network!
Upcoming Events
Below is a list of upcoming events from the Viaka Network & beyond over the next couple of weeks!
Viaka Events:
Building your BI Infrastructure - December 12th (Virtual)
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.
Data Scientist at Emirates - Apply here
CINCHONA is hiring a Digital Marketing Executive - 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
Common Intelligence released a report about “deciding your investment thesis” for a MENA-focused fund in 2024, which is full of insights about the region’s venture scene.
That’s it for this week. Thank you! 👋
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