The HODL Summit in Dubai, which promises to be a glittering crypto innovation show, is right around the corner. Five thousand of the world’s leaders, investors and innovators are all scheduled to converge on Madinat Jumeirah. DeFi, tokenization, AI-powered blockchain – the buzzwords are cacophonous. A crucial question lingers: Will this summit actually empower Southeast Asian crypto artists, or will it simply be another echo chamber for the already powerful?

Forgotten Voices, Echoing Halls?

Southeast Asia is a hotbed of creativity. From the intricate digital paintings of Indonesian artists to the vibrant crypto-collectibles emerging from the Philippines, the region is brimming with talent. Talent alone isn't enough. Access to funding, exposure, and the right networks are essential. What does that mean for these artists, if they’re not even on the radar of the HODL Summit’s attendees? Or are they merely a token trend, a blip on the screen of the Web3 conquest’s epic tale?

In addition to the educational sessions, the summit features ample networking opportunities with more than 500 institutional investors. Great! Yet, how many of those investors are willing to go out of their way to find Southeast Asian talent? How many know and appreciate the specific cultural nuances and artistic traditions that these artists contribute to the tapestry.

Speaking as someone who is entirely devoted to making Web3 a more inclusive place, it makes me uneasy. It’s one thing to say we’re going to decentralize and democratize, but are we really doing that. Are we truly tearing down the structures that mute or overlook marginalized voices? Are we simply reproducing the inequities and power structures of our traditional art world? And yet that’s occurring even inside the purportedly revolutionary world of crypto.

Beyond the Buzzwords: Real Action Needed

Mohammed Saleem from Trescon says HODL has become the "definitive platform for blockchain innovation." Corbin Fraser from Bitcoin.com claims it's "where the future of Web3 and crypto innovation takes shape." These are bold statements. If that future doesn't include a diverse range of voices, including those from Southeast Asia, then it's a future I'm not particularly interested in.

Words are cheap. Action is what matters. This is why the HODL Summit has the potential to be much more than a traditional one-track conference. In your hands, it can be a powerful catalyst for profound real change. That takes a concerted commitment to go beyond tokenistic displays and open up real pathways for Southeast Asian artists.

  • Dedicated Workshops, Not Just Panels: Instead of just having panels about Southeast Asia, how about dedicated workshops led by Southeast Asian artists themselves? Workshops focused on navigating the crypto art landscape, building sustainable careers, and accessing funding.
  • Investment, Not Just Exposure: Exposure is great, but it doesn't pay the bills. The summit should actively facilitate investment in Southeast Asian crypto art projects. Perhaps a dedicated fund or a pitching competition specifically for artists from the region.
  • Accessible Platforms, Not Just Exclusive Gatherings: The summit needs to champion platforms and tools that are accessible to artists in Southeast Asia, regardless of their technical expertise or financial resources. Think mobile-first solutions, language support, and affordable transaction fees.

Is Web3 a New Colonialism?

Here's where the "unexpected connection" comes in. We must be conscious of the dangers of digital colonialism. In doing so, are we unfairly forcing Western-centric models of success onto the region of Southeast Asia? Finally, we must work to meet the distinctive needs and dreams of local communities. Are we simply taking advantage of the region without returning value in any kind of substantive way?

This isn't just about artistic expression. It's about economic empowerment. So far, it’s been about building a Web3 ecosystem that’s truly decentralized and equitable. Most importantly, it’s about making sure that everyone—not just a well-connected elite—gets to experience the benefits of crypto innovation.

We are convinced that the HODL Summit can be a force for good. That isn’t enough. It needs to actively challenge the status quo and embrace inclusivity as a fundamental operating principle. Will it rise to the occasion?

A Call to the Crypto Conscience

I’m not only preaching to the converted organizers of this year’s HODL Summit. I'm talking to you. Yes, you, the reader. Are you an investor? Seek out Southeast Asian artists. Are you a platform developer? Build tools that are accessible to them. Are you simply a crypto enthusiast? Amplify their voices.

Each of us has a part to play in ensuring that Web3 really is empowering and inclusive. Connectedness through circulation Let’s not allow the HODL Summit to be yet another missed opportunity. Together, we can make this moment into a turning point! Further, it is now incumbent upon the crypto community to give active support to these new artists across Southeast Asia. The future of Web3 depends on it. So don’t compute amazement at the technology let you overlook all the human faces that created the magic.