Exploring the Blockchain Development Landscape: An Interview with Rostyslav Bortman
Rostyslav Bortman, the Head of Blockchain Development at IdeaSoft and founder of the ETHKyiv Community, is a prominent figure in both the Ukrainian and global Web3 development scene. His commitment to fostering the crypto community has positioned him as a key influencer in the industry.
This year, he notably spearheaded the Ethereum hackathon in Kyiv, which was graced by the presence of Vitalik Buterin, a close colleague. Here, we delve into his insights on the future of the Ethereum market, the Ukrainian Web3 ecosystem, and the challenges that lie ahead.
Journey into Blockchain Development
What inspired you to dive into blockchain development and the Web3 industry?
“The introduction to smart contracts in 2016 marked the beginning of my journey. A university professor presented a thesis topic on ‘Smart Contracts on Ethereum,’ and I found myself captivated by Solidity, Ethereum, and the underlying principles of decentralization.”
Ukrainian Developers in the Global Web3 Space
At the Incrypted Conference 2024, Vitalik Buterin recognized the progress of Ukrainian Web3 developers. What are your thoughts on this? Can Ukrainian startups compete globally in blockchain technologies?
“Absolutely, competition in the Web3 space is not confined by geography. It’s essential to focus on product use cases and user experience. Success hinges on creating an innovative product that serves a purpose. While Ukrainian developers are making strides, there’s still significant potential to create mainstream products.”
The Role of Hackathons in Shaping the Ecosystem
As the founder of the Kyiv Ethereum Community, what have been its main achievements? How has it impacted the local blockchain ecosystem?
“Since 2021, we’ve organized around 25 meetups in collaboration with entities like BNB Chain and Scroll. Notably, ETHKyiv attracted significant participation, including sponsorship from renowned platforms like EtherFi and The Graph. Despite ongoing challenges, we raised funds for essential causes and solidified our presence in the ecosystem.”
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
What are the primary challenges you face while organizing hackathons? How do they impact the Ethereum ecosystem?
“Despite unforeseen obstacles, including domain ownership disputes, our focus remains on onboarding Ukrainian developers and enhancing community engagement. Hackathons are vital for nurturing talent and cultivating a vibrant developer culture.”
The Future of Web3
How do you envision the future of the Web3 market? Will a few large networks dominate, or is diversity key?
“While new blockchains will likely capture market share, I firmly believe that Ethereum’s principles will prevail, perpetuating its position as a leader in the space. Innovation will continue to flourish within Ethereum, driving the ecosystem forward.”
Consumer Awareness of Blockchain Technologies
How can we effectively convey the benefits of blockchain to a broader audience?
“Creating user-friendly applications that meet real needs is crucial. As demand for decentralization and security grows, it’s essential to stay focused on building intuitive solutions.”
Educational Initiatives in Web3
How important are educational programs in preparing the next generation of blockchain professionals?
“Education plays a pivotal role. Initiatives similar to those in Buenos Aires, which integrate Ethereum and Solidity into school curricula, are essential for nurturing enthusiasm and accelerating growth in this field.”
Conclusion
Rostyslav Bortman’s insights provide a compelling look at the trajectory of the blockchain industry in Ukraine and beyond. His commitment to fostering innovation and community participation is paving the way for a robust future in Web3 development.
Stay Connected with Rostyslav Bortman
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