"No rich parents? No problem," says this self-made CEO who turned street smarts and grit into global Web3 success.

When Ken Berry speaks, he doesn’t sound like your typical tech founder. He doesn’t open with buzzwords or boast about funding rounds. Instead, he tells you about selling, about learning by doing, and about loving what you do even when no one pays you for it. It’s raw, real, and surprisingly effective.

Ken Berry is the founder and CEO of Connect Web3, and his story is a masterclass in finding your way into Web3 without having all the advantages in life. In a recent talk at Ateneo De Davao University's SBG Week 2025, Ken Berry shared his story, inspiring even those unfamiliar with the industry.

"I have no connections, no rich parents, but I give myself a stretch,"

It’s this underdog mentality that forms the foundation of Ken’s beginner’s guide to getting started in the world of blockchain and Web3.

Curiosity First, Resume Second

Ken’s journey into Web3 didn’t begin with a formal course or certificate. It started with curiosity. While others waited for the right opportunity or tried to improve their English, Ken Berry jumped in.

"I started with curiosity. I started with customer support. I became an HR."

That’s not a typo. Ken Berry landed an HR job in crypto without HR experience. His secret was outsmarting the interview.

"When I applied as HR, the HR didn’t ask me anymore. I was the only one asking."

This unusual path led him from support roles to leadership positions, eventually raising millions in funding. But what matters more than the money is the mindset. Ken Berry proves that if you’re resourceful, willing to learn fast, and not afraid to figure things out as you go, Web3 has a place for you.

Street Smart Beats Book Smart

Ken Berry doesn’t say school isn’t important, but he believes being street-smart is just as valuable.

"In business, it's all about sales. If you don't know how to make a break, no matter how good your product is, there's no break."

Communication, instinct, and confidence. These are the skills that helped him move forward when formal education wasn’t enough. He encourages students and beginners to love what they do and to start getting real-world experience as soon as possible.

"The more you learn, the faster you'll learn when you're hands-on,"

That kind of practical learning doesn’t just teach you ideas. It helps you build real understanding.

The Hands-On Advantage

Ken Berry believes in learning by doing. If you’re interested in design, content, marketing, or tech, he encourages you to start creating and trying things out. Not tomorrow. Not when you feel ready. Today.

"Your client is outside. Compared to the Philippines. Dollars."

He points out that many freelancers and developers from the Philippines are already working with global clients. The value isn’t just in crypto. It’s in your skills, your drive, and your reputation.

He also warns against waiting until you feel like you know everything. Waiting for perfect timing or full knowledge is often how people miss their chance. His advice is to say yes, figure it out along the way, and keep learning as you go.

Purpose-Driven Progress

One of the most powerful parts of Ken’s story is his clear sense of purpose. For him, success in Web3 isn’t just about personal growth but also helping others.

"I love to help my fellow Filipinos. That's why I created thousands of jobs. I help them, I feed them, I train them."

This mission is at the heart of everything he does. Whether he’s speaking to students or building new ventures, he sees technology as a way to lift people up.

No Excuses, Just Action

Ken Berry knows the path is not always easy. He talks about language barriers, lack of resources, and how some people doubt what Web3 can really offer. But for him, excuses are not an option. Taking action is.

"If you don't know how to sell, you're done... No matter how good your marketing is, if you don't know how to execute, it's easy."

The Connect Web3 founder believes that getting things done matters more than just having a great plan. And taking the first step matters more than waiting for the perfect one.

What Beginners Can Do Right Now

If you want to follow in Ken’s footsteps, you don’t need to wait. You don’t need a tech degree or expensive equipment. You just need to:

• Get curious. Watch YouTube videos, explore BitSquerla, join online groups.
• Get your hands dirty. Volunteer, freelance, or start your own small project.
• Get in front of people. Join a Web3 meetup or join a conversation online.
• Start selling. Show what you can do. Share your skills, your story, your ideas.

It’s not about becoming successful overnight. It’s about showing up every day and building something real. As Ken Berry shows, you don’t need a perfect background to get into Web3. You just need to start.

Because Web3 isn’t just for tech experts or the rich. It’s for anyone with the drive to learn and the courage to take the first step. And as Ken Berry proves, it’s definitely for those who dare to begin.