Souhail Mssassi

With a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit and a profound passion for innovation, I have carved a distinctive path in the technology landscape through the founding of ShellBoxes, a company at the forefront of blockchain technology, and OCTAV, a pioneer in the virtual reality (VR) space. My leadership in these ventures has led to the development of cutting-edge solutions that serve a global clientele, setting new standards in blockchain and immersive VR experiences. Beyond the helm of ShellBoxes and OCTAV, my journey in entrepreneurship extends to advising various companies, aiding them to scale and enhance their operations with innovative technology solutions, thereby driving business success.

My professional portfolio is enriched with over a decade of experience in cybersecurity, where I have honed my skills as a Senior Security Researcher. Specializing in application security, cryptography, and the security of decentralized applications, I have empowered numerous organizations to fortify their cybersecurity frameworks and adopt robust strategies that safeguard against evolving threats. My expertise extends to the intricate realms of formal verification in cybersecurity, where I am actively engaged in research to advance the reliability and security of software systems.

In addition to my technical prowess, I am deeply committed to knowledge sharing and community engagement. As an instructor and speaker, I have had the privilege of presenting on various aspects of security at universities and prominent conferences, inspiring the next generation of cybersecurity professionals and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

Joining this mentorship program is a step forward in my journey of continuous growth and contribution to the technology and startup ecosystem. My motivation is driven by three core objectives:

Firstly, I am eager to scout for new opportunities where I can engage as an advisor or pursue a board seat. With a wealth of experience in founding companies such as ShellBoxes in the blockchain space and OCTAV in virtual reality, coupled with my extensive background in cybersecurity, I bring a unique blend of technical expertise and strategic vision. I am passionate about leveraging this expertise to guide emerging startups in navigating the complexities of the tech industry, fostering innovation, and achieving sustainable growth.

Secondly, I am on the lookout for new investment opportunities. The rapid evolution of technology presents endless possibilities, and through this program, I aim to identify groundbreaking startups with the potential to transform industries. My goal is to not only provide financial support but also to offer strategic guidance drawn from my own entrepreneurial journey, helping these startups to scale and succeed in a competitive marketplace.

Lastly, and most importantly, I want to give back to the startup ecosystem and support the next generation of entrepreneurs. The journey of building a startup is fraught with challenges, and I believe that by sharing my experiences, insights, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way, I can empower aspiring entrepreneurs to overcome obstacles and turn their visions into reality. This mentorship program offers a platform for me to contribute to a vibrant community of innovators, encouraging a culture of knowledge sharing and collaboration.

In essence, my participation in this mentorship program is fueled by a desire to contribute to the growth and success of emerging startups, invest in transformative ideas, and give back to the community that has been instrumental in my own development as an entrepreneur and leader.