Hussein Hallak

Published: 2017-10-17 08:00:00

Written by Alexandra Moxin

Hussein Hallak is General Manager and Head Mentor at Launch Academy, Western Canada’s leading tech startup hub with more than 500 startups incubated, $100+ million raised, and 1000+ entrepreneurs mentored and trained.

A serial entrepreneur, speaker, startup advisor and investor, Hussein lives to inspire entrepreneurship and unleash breakthrough growth. Hussein has built 20+ startups. Mentored and trained 1000+ entrepreneurs. Featured in Forbes, BBC, Entrepreneur, DailyHive (VancityBuzz), Business In Vancouver, Roundhouse Radio, Vancouver Courier, Richmond Sentinel and Notable. With 25+ years of business experience he has extensive knowledge of startups, innovation, strategy, growth, marketing, and social media.

Hussein is Executive Director and Mentor at TiE Vancouver, one of the largest entrepreneurial organisations in the world, a Tech Panelist on Roundhouse Radio and former Director of Marketing at TEDxStanleyPark; one of the world’s largest and most successful TEDx events. He is also Communication Chair of Small Business Council, a member of the Steering Committee of Metro Vancouver Prosperity Initiative, Advisor of TechCon Millennium (STEM conference for high school students) and speaks, mentors and judges at Junior Achievement, YELL, GradusOne and many other student conferences, initiatives and case competitions.

Hussein is passionate about entrepreneurship, education, tech, and is on a mission to change the world through connection, communication and community. He’d love to know what you’re working on and up to in the world!

What we cover in this episode

How Hussein’s began his career and his background as an entrepreneur

What drives Hussein to get out of bed in the morning

What motivated Hussein to join Launch Academy

Common themes and problems startups and entrepreneurs encounter

How Launch Academy has helped startups pivot, refocus and break through challenges

How Launch Academy provides a unique environment where startups have access to key mentors and opportunities

Emerging trends Hussein sees in the field such as Blockchain, AI and technology that changes habits and industry

Conferences Hussein is speaking at and Launch Academy AMAs

Programs, upcoming workshops and speaking engagements at Launch Academy

Options for students and others who are looking at becoming entrepreneurs

Why having passion for an idea, putting in the work and humility are the keys to success as an entrepreneur

The importance of partnerships and being in the right environment

The 3 stages of being an entrepreneur and the concept of work

Being able to pivot to match customer needs

How skill and experience as an entrepreneur matters in getting traction for your product

The power of Lean Methodology and breaking down the myth of the stereotypical entrepreneur

What can people realistically expect when they decide to become an entrepreneur?

What are some of the ways you can engage with Launch Academy and the startup community?

How can VCs and corporate partners engage with and help Launch Academy and the startup community?

For our listeners, Hussein would like to know where are you stuck, what do you want to do next and where do you want to start? Come to one of the Launch Academy AMAs, check out their programs or connect with Hussein directly on Linked in or by email. You can also take a tour of Launch Academy in person every Thursday from 4:30 PM - 5:00 PM.