Saida Azizi is the co-founder and Head of Operations of Collektr, a live bidding platform for collectibles in Southeast Asia. 

They’re backed by First Move, an early-stage VC firm that focuses on consumer startups. 

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👋🏼 How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

Collektr is a live bidding platform for collectibles in Southeast Asia. 

As a livestreaming community marketplace, Collektr provides a secure environment for users to indulge their passion for collectible items, facilitating seamless buying, selling, and trading experiences. 

Designed specifically for discerning collectors tired of scams and seeking authentic, authenticated items, Collektr offers a wide range of categories where enthusiasts can connect, discuss, and explore shared interests.

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🧐 What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

Alright, here's the 'real scoop'. When I'm not busy being the head honcho at Collektr, you might catch me in a fierce duel, not with spreadsheets, but with trading cards (not only with the community but with the rest of the co-founders too)!

It's a bit funny how my journey with trading card games has become more than just a hobby—it's a crucial part of steering Collektr towards growth.

Learning the ins and outs of different Trading Card Games (TCGs) has become a necessity.

"Study science," our Asian mum says, “or accounting”...and here we are, playing TCGs and selling sneakers, while also being a part of the community and generating profit/returns for people alike.

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🏆 What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

The biggest highlight of my career at Collektr goes beyond the numbers and metrics. 

It's also witnessing the platform evolve into a space that not only fuels the collector's spirit but also nurtures the inner child of our "kidult" community.

Collektr has become more than just a collectible live-bidding platform; it's a place where enthusiasts find joy, healing, and a connection to their inner child. 

The joy of unearthing a cherished collectible, whether it's a childhood favorite or a rare gem, goes beyond the transaction—it's a moment of pure nostalgia and delight.

Seeing our platform contribute to the emotional journey of our users, healing their inner child through the power of collectibles, has been a unique and heartening aspect of my role. It's not just about generating returns for investments; it's about creating an experience that resonates on a personal level.

The stories of collectors finding treasures that transport them back to simpler times are the true highlights, showcasing the genuine impact we have on the "kidult" community.

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🔍 What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?‍

In the dynamic world of Collektr, tech trends are more than just intriguing; they're pivotal to our growth and user experience. 

As the co-founder and head of operations, I'm closely watching the evolution of augmented reality (AR) and its potential impact on the collectibles space. 

AR holds the promise of transforming how users interact with and experience collectibles on our platform. Imagine collectors virtually exploring rare items before making a purchase–it's not just tech innovation; it's a game-changer for Collektr.

Additionally, the rise of personalized AI-driven recommendations is on our radar. Leveraging machine learning algorithms to understand and anticipate the unique preferences of our users can revolutionize how we curate and present collectibles. 

This aligns perfectly with our goal of creating a tailored and engaging space for every collector within the Collektr community.

Furthermore, data security remains a top priority. As we explore new technological avenues, ensuring the utmost security for our users' data is non-negotiable. 

Implementing robust measures to protect sensitive information is not just a trend but an ongoing commitment that defines how we operate at Collektr.

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💼 What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry? 

For newcomers in the community-centric collectibles industry, a twofold approach is crucial.

Firstly, thorough research is essential to grasp market dynamics and community preferences. In an industry where users often have extensive knowledge, being well-prepared is key. 

Building trust starts with a solid understanding of the space, and forming credibility is vital for platform growth. Users need to trust the 'expert' behind the platform, making the first impression crucial.

Secondly, establish relationships with industry advisors or form partnerships with experienced individuals. Authentic engagement with the community is pivotal, and adaptability to evolving trends is essential for a successful presence in this dynamic industry. 

Given the ever-changing landscape, especially when dealing with different types of collectibles, staying agile and responsive to community feedback is crucial for sustained growth.

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🗣 What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours? 

Subconsciousness. The subconscious is like the behind-the-scenes director in our lives, often wielding more influence than we consciously realize or acknowledge. 

It's this silent force shaping our thoughts and actions, operating below the radar. Unveiling the power it holds is like discovering a hidden dimension to our daily existence, where patterns, habits, and decisions are orchestrated without us being fully aware. 

It's a journey of unraveling the mystery behind the scenes of our minds.

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🎥 What's your favorite movie/TV show? 

Big Bang Theory, This Is Us, and Modern Family.

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🍨 What's your go-to ice cream flavor?‍

Coffee and pistachio. 

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FYI. We've edited this interview for clarity.