Key Takeaways
- Yawn Rong co-founded Find Satoshi Labs (FSL) and STEPN, a Web3 lifestyle app that rewards movement with blockchain incentives.
- He earned a Master’s in Advertising, PR, and E-Marketing from Unisa, gaining expertise in digital marketing and brand strategy.
- He also co-founded Crypto SA and Crypto SA Labs, supporting Web3 startups with blockchain strategy, token models, and funding.
Who Is Yawn Rong?
Yawn Rong co-founded Find Satoshi Labs (FSL), a studio that creates Web3 products, and STEPN, a Web3 app focused on lifestyle. He pursued his higher education at Unisa, completing a Master’s degree in Advertising, Public Relations, and E-Marketing. During his studies, he gained expertise in digital marketing strategies, brand communication, and online consumer engagement, which later played a key role in his work in the Web3 space.
Marketing and Early Business Ventures
Yawn Rong started his career in marketing, working as the marketing director for Teamazing Beverages from January 2018 to August 2021. During his time there, he played a key role in developing the brand, engaging with customers, and helping the company grow in the market.
Outside of the beverage industry, he also tried other business opportunities, such as home improvement. He was the managing director of Tiles On Bradman Drive, a company focused on building materials, until May 2023.
Blockchain Entrepreneurship
Rong became deeply involved in blockchain technology and business development. He co-founded Crypto SA and Crypto SA Labs, two companies focused on helping Web3 start-ups shape their token models, plan blockchain strategies, and secure funding. He worked closely with new blockchain projects through these companies, offering advice and investment support. He remained with Crypto SA until January 2023.
Web3 Advocacy and Leadership
Rong’s work in blockchain was not just about business—he also took on leadership roles to support the industry. In February 2019, he became an industry representative for the South Australian Blockchain Association, where he worked to promote the growth of blockchain technology in the region.
Around the same time, he was selected as the SA representative for Blockchain Australia. In this role, he helped blockchain projects connect with investors, government regulators, and experienced professionals in the industry.
Algorand and Industry Advocacy
Along with building businesses, Rong has also worked to spread the use of blockchain technology through Algorand, a fast and efficient Layer 1 blockchain. Since March 2019, he has been a business ambassador for Algorand, helping promote its technology and grow its network. His work in the blockchain industry shows his dedication to supporting Web3 solutions in different fields.
Co-Founding FSL and STEPN
In August 2021, Rong co-founded Find Satoshi Labs (FSL) and STEPN, a Web3 lifestyle app that encourages people to stay active by rewarding movement with blockchain-based incentives. STEPN quickly became popular for its unique way of combining fitness with digital rewards.
The Vision Behind STEPN
In an interview with Morningstar Ventures, Rong shared how STEPN was created, its partnerships, and its future. The idea first came up in early August 2021. At first, the team planned to build a Web3 version of Monopoly. But after looking at other games where characters moved around a board, they saw a chance to connect real-world movement with blockchain rewards.
This led to the creation of STEPN, which launched near the end of the bull market. Instead of focusing on detailed graphics, the team made the app simple and easy to use on mobile devices, which helped STEPN stand out in the Game-Fi and Web3 fitness world.
Updates and Future Plans
In an episode of Lab of Crypto, Yawn Rong, co-founder of STEPN, joins the AMA to share updates, challenges, and future plans for the project. He answers community questions about the app’s economy, upcoming features, and improvements to enhance the user experience.
Rong also discusses STEPN’s long-term vision and its role in the Web3 and Game-Fi space. This session provides valuable insights for new and existing users, offering a deeper understanding of the project is direction.
Contributions to Web3 Growth
Rong’s work in Web3 goes beyond his own businesses. Through Crypto SA and Crypto SA Labs, he has helped many start-ups by guiding them on token models and business strategies. His roles with the South Australian Blockchain Association and Blockchain Australia show his commitment to expanding blockchain use and connecting regulators, investors, and developers.
Vision for Web3
Rong is always looking for new ways to grow in blockchain and digital technology. His experience in different industries helps him take part in the ongoing development of Web3. Whether through FSL, STEPN, or future projects, he stays focused on building easy-to-use, scalable, and useful blockchain products that connect traditional businesses with decentralized technology.
Final Thoughts
Yawn Rong’s journey from marketing to blockchain shows his ability to adapt and create new ideas. Through Crypto SA, Algorand, and Web3 groups, he has helped grow the blockchain space. His work with Find Satoshi Labs (FSL) and STEPN shows his goal of making blockchain easy to use and rewarding for people. As Web3 grows, his efforts will continue to shape new digital projects and ideas.
Check out these related articles.
