From rewarding recycling of cans and plastic bottles to promoting circularity in supply chains or identifying port waste. All this thanks to blockchain technology and, of course, the ideas of this entrepreneur and his team. After more than 20 years of being associated with innovation and technology research projects, Denisa Kibovic (Sarajevo, 1975) now director and founder Blue room innovationA company that develops blockchain-based applications dedicated to sustainable initiatives.
TB: What is the purpose of your project?
DG: We want to be part of the circular economy revolution to use technology to create a more sustainable world. Our mission is to empower people to transform their businesses towards sustainability.
TB: Where are you and where do you see yourself in two years?
DG: After creating the first MVPs of our main technology solutions (RECICLOS, CircularTrust or CircularPort), this year we are at a moment where the priority is to continue testing in real environments, pilot cases. We can create more value for our customers. In two years we will be in full growth and we believe we will be able to reach new industries with blockchain solutions that allow them to move quickly and agilely towards their sustainable growth goals.
TB: You had a good idea.
DG: Create Blue Room innovation. I am delighted to be able to lead an organization with such a challenging and important mission, for ourselves and for the next generation.
TB: What was the biggest challenge you faced?
DG: Although this is something very few people know, I was born in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I lived my childhood in Sarajevo and spent my youth as a war refugee. I remember that stage as a great challenge because I couldn’t feel the freedom we all long for at that crucial moment in our development.
TB: Best advice you’ve ever been given.
DG: A piece of advice from a former partner had a big impact on me. His „never give up” always comes with me and motivates me on hard days.
TB: A professional reference that inspires you.
DG: One of my biggest takeaways Alfonso Cornella, his restless mind and way of approaching innovation processes. He has inspired us and contributed a lot – and I hope he will continue to do so as we develop our projects.
TB: A technology that shapes the future.
DG: Blockchain technology is a new revolution. A commitment to transparency, security and trust will soon be available to all. That’s what we’re here for.
TB: In person or remotely?
DG: It is important to meet and share our daily lives in person so that we don’t lose the human part of relationships. Screen views are never the same during meetings, coffee conversations, or whiteboard brainstorming sessions. Now, society is moving forward and teleworking is a reality that offers other benefits. Flexibility is important in this sense and adapting the organization is a good way to provide this opportunity.
TB: A startup or company.
DG: The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) is a great reference when we talk about innovation and sustainability consulting. For those of us working today with innovative digital tools like the Digital Product Passport, it’s a source of knowledge and inspiration.
TB: What about disconnecting?
TG: My moments of rest are sacred. I like to read, I regularly practice yoga, I like walking on the beach and in the mountains.
TB: A book to recommend.
DG: „The Wild Palm Trees” is a novel by William Faulkner that explores the desire for freedom and love in the midst of difficult circumstances. The novel has a fragmented narrative structure and explores human relationships, sacrifices in search of freedom and temporary happiness.
TB: The series, movie or song that defines your moment in life.
DG: Ibrahim Malouf, born in Beirut in 1980 and based in Paris due to the Lebanon War, is a contemporary jazz musician known for fusing different styles including soul, pop, hip-hop and Arabic music. „True Story,” from the 2013 album „Illusions,” is a song that, like a roller coaster, rises little by little until the instrumental peaks, returns to the catchy leitmotif, and finally rises again. Spectacular.
TB: One recipe, one restaurant.
DG: I recommend the restaurant „Unagi” in Palamas. This is a Japanese restaurant located a few blocks from the beach and harbor that I frequent. If you’re a fan of sushi and Japanese cuisine, you won’t be disappointed.
TB: A place in the world.
DG: I am fascinated by Mount Fuji and its natural and cultural context.
TB: Where would you invest 100k?
DG: I will be organizing a charity event to raise scholarship funds for underprivileged children.
TB: Unless you are an entrepreneur…
DG: If I wasn’t an entrepreneur, I think I would have been hanging around until I started a business. It seems a little redundant, but I can’t imagine my life any other way.
TB: What does Tech Barcelona mean to you?
DG: I see Tech Barcelona as a great ecosystem to get to know, connect and grow professionally and personally. I strongly believe in the power of connectivity and collaboration to think big and provide the world with better solutions to its problems.