A Leap of Faith at 17
At just 17, Malak Albaw made a life-changing decision. Leaving her home with a suitcase and a one-way ticket to Venice, she embarked on a journey to study business in a foreign land. Settling on a remote island near Venice, far from family and friends, and without knowing the language, Malak faced numerous challenges. Yet, her determination to adapt and thrive laid the foundation for her future success.
Discovering a Passion for Entrepreneurship
While pursuing her degree in economics, Malak realized that the traditional corporate path wasn’t for her. The allure of early-stage businesses, with their creativity and rapid pace, captivated her. Her turning point came when she was selected as a university ambassador for an entrepreneurship event. There, she met an Italian serial entrepreneur who recognized her potential and offered her an opportunity in the world of crowdfunding.
Making Waves in Crowdfunding
Joining a crowdfunding agency, Malak worked alongside global product creators, designing launch campaigns and strategizing for the U.S. market. Her efforts contributed to raising over $15 million for various projects on platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. One notable success was the launch of a foldable suitcase brand, LITO Travel, which challenged traditional luggage designs. Under her leadership in U.S. marketing strategy and operations, the brand gained significant traction and was acquired by a competitor within 16 months .
Overcoming Industry Challenges
Navigating the male-dominated tech industry wasn’t easy. Often the youngest and only woman in the room, Malak had to assert her value continually. Through resilience and strategic thinking, she transitioned from an assistant to a Chief Operating Officer in just three years. Her journey underscores the importance of confidence and the ability to pitch oneself effectively.
Founding Alba Ventures
Driven by a mission to democratize access to capital and knowledge, Malak founded Alba Ventures, a strategic advisory collective supporting Web3 and AI startups. Alba Ventures offers services like organic PR, fundraising support, and strategic partnerships, acting as a “smart subscription” for founders seeking top-tier advice without hefty retainers .
Educating the Next Generation
Beyond her ventures, Malak is passionate about education. She launched “The MBA of Crowdfunding,” a cohort-based course designed to equip entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge to run successful crowdfunding campaigns. The course covers essential topics like crafting a vision, building a community, mastering crowdfunding pages, and leveraging key metrics .
A Vision for the Future
Malak’s long-term mission is clear: to be a builder and a bridge. She aims to help early-stage disruptor founders cut through the noise, find their voice, and build brands with lasting value. Her work emphasizes that empathy, strategy, and boldness can coexist, and she strives to create systems that make success more accessible to all.
Words of Wisdom
Reflecting on her journey, Malak shares valuable insights:
- “Start before you’re ready. You’ll never feel 100% prepared, but clarity comes from action.”
- “Trust is the greatest currency—if you treat a business like it’s yours, that mindset opens more doors than any title ever could.”
- “Never compare your chapter 2 to someone else’s chapter 10.”
Her story serves as a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and the courage to forge one’s path.
Connect with Malak Albaw:
Read More: Dubai Brokerage Scam: Investors Lose Millions Overnight
