My name is Sara Abdelmalek, a UX/UI Designer with a Master’s degree in Human-Technology Interaction from Lodz University of Technology and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. With a background in energy engineering, I transitioned into design to create user-centered digital solutions.
During my exchange, I was hosted by Alejandro Crawford, co-founder of RebelBase, a SaaS platform that empowers individuals and teams to build and develop their own solutions. He is also a Professor of Entrepreneurship at Bard MBA in Sustainability and leads global social entrepreneurship initiatives.
My business idea focuses on developing a digital platform aimed at helping foreigners to better navigate administrative processes and challenges in a new environment.”
I discovered the EYE program while searching for entrepreneurial opportunities and decided to participate to gain mentorship, refine my idea, and develop practical startup skills in an international environment.
During my EYE stay, I was actively involved in developing Rebelbase v2.0, working from the research phase and business model development. My main activities included conducting user research through interviews with stakeholders and users, analyzing insights, and contributing to product decisions and this is still going on..
I collaborated closely with my host and the team, including advisors and developers, to improve the platform and iterate on the prototype, including as well the AI feedback system. I also contributed to refining the pitch deck and strengthening the startup’s storytelling for investors.
The relationship with my host was highly supportive and collaborative. He provided continuous guidance, shared his entrepreneurial experience, and involved me in strategic discussions, which greatly enhanced my learning and integration within the team.
Through this exchange, I developed both entrepreneurial and professional skills, particularly in user research, product development, and business modeling. I gained hands-on experience working in a startup environment, improving my ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary and international teams, manage projects, and communicate ideas effectively.
The mentorship I received helped me refine my business idea and better understand how to align user needs with market opportunities. I also strengthened my storytelling skills for pitch presentations and learned how to approach investors more strategically.
In addition, I built valuable connections with entrepreneurs, advisors, and developers, opening opportunities for future collaboration. This experience also created potential prospects for continuing to develop my project and possibly expanding it within an international context.
The exchange was a transformative journey where I gained confidence as a new entrepreneur, refined my idea, and learned how to navigate real-world startup challenges