Today we’d like to introduce you to Apolonia Thomas.
Hi Apolonia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
For a long time, I struggled to identify what unique value I could offer beyond sports. When attending tech conferences and networking events, I intentionally avoided leading with my sports background, as I didn’t want it to overshadow my broader potential. However, with only novice-level knowledge in blockchain technology and marketing, I often lacked the confidence as a non-tech techie to contribute meaningfully to conversations. As a result, I quietly observed tech bros discussing their ideas and how they were building and monetizing their skills, creating their “riches of life.”
Gradually, I recognized the importance of self-investment and made a conscious decision to evolve. I started by creating a personal curriculum focused on learning and applying new knowledge. Drawing on my marketing background, I up-skilled to data science, while also incorporating other skills that I knew were incompatible with automation. This process revealed a deeper value in information; not only for my own growth but as something that could benefit others.
Sharing what I learned became a turning point; I saw how spreading knowledge brought generosity and curiosity into the lives of those around me. Over time, I discovered I was nurturing a digital mastermind; an environment that connected me with people possessing the skills and mindset I wanted to embrace for my own growth. While these efforts didn’t lead to immediate financial rewards, I experienced a wealth of social connections and positive energy. The gratitude I felt for these relationships was matched by the sense of impact I had on others.
This journey fueled even greater curiosity and led me to experiment with gratitude. Whenever I received new information, money, or a connection, I would pause to give thanks and reflect on where it might best serve. For example, if I found a coin or received a paycheck, I’d say, “Thank you. Now, where do you want to go?” I noticed that expressing gratitude seemed to create an energetic shift, attracting more of the resources and relationships that supported my aspirations.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Building a community, especially one focused on social impact, with a long-term vision like BARCODE DAO’s, often doesn’t produce immediate financial gains. So this has been a road which has required immense perseverance and belief in the future potential of social enterprise.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about BARCODE DAO?
BARCODE DAO is a member-owned ecosystem dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers and fostering economic resilience across the diaspora. Our mission is to empower Black Artists/Architects, Revolutionaries, Creators, Originals, Developers, and Entrepreneurs; collectively known as “BARCODE”, to lead and shape the digital future by pooling power, resources, and knowledge directly within the community. Unlike traditional networks, we specialize in bridging diverse skill sets to co-create impactful, innovative projects that live on the blockchain, while preparing members for the evolving digital economy through accessible education in blockchain technology, decentralized finance, and economic literacy.
What truly sets BARCODE DAO apart is our democratic governance model, where decisions are made through member voting enabled by smart contracts; eliminating centralized leadership. This structure ensures resilience, adaptability, and alignment with the community’s needs, fostering continuous innovation, social impact, and generational wealth building within a transparent and collaborative framework.
We take pride in our ongoing commitment to economic literacy and technological innovation. We go beyond networking by actively preparing our community for the next wave of global operations, ensuring wealth creation that could lasts for generations. BARCODE DAO is more than a social collective; it is a forward-thinking digital infrastructure empowering our communities to harness technology, co-create value, and reshape participation in the future of work and finance. Our offerings include educational resources, community governance participation, and support for member-driven projects that reflect their aspirations and talents; all designed to revolutionize opportunities and economic power.
What’s next?
January 9-11, 2026 we will be hosting our 1st Web 3 Crossover Event – IRL in Dallas, Texas. Activations like these align our onboarding initiative; where we aim to onboard 10,000 members by the end of 2027, dramatically expanding BARCODE’s network. Additionally, a key initiative is launching the Decentralized Curriculum; a continuous engine delivering economic literacy and advanced technological education to empower our community for the evolving digital economy.
Another critical goal is activating the DAO’s Treasury by 2027 to fund member-submitted proposals. This will transform BARCODE DAO into a fully operational, community-governed venture launchpad that fosters innovation and supports member-led projects.
We look forward to seeing these member-driven ventures thrive, establishing BARCODE DAO as a recognized thought leader portal and influential voice for digital equity and economic empowerment on a global scale.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joinbarcode.io
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barcode.dao
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/barcode-dao/
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/barcodedao
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@barcodedao
- Other: https://www.threads.com/@barcode.dao
