In the dynamic landscape of startup culture, where the narrative often revolves around tech-savvy founders and rapid MVP development, Nadeen Awwad, a Palestinian-American chemical engineer, stands out as a beacon of authenticity. A chemical engineer by profession, Nadeen is breaking barriers and challenging the conventional startup trajectory with Trainsquare, a social tech platform based in Abu Dhabi.As the Founder and CEO of Trainsquare, She is on a mission to bring people together in Abu Dhabi through hands-on workshops, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.
Trainsquare is not just another app; it’s a visionary approach to fostering genuine, in-person connections through hands-on workshops. The platform serves as a bridge, connecting people in the same city who may be living in close proximity but remain strangers. Nadeen’s passion for building communities and facilitating meaningful conversations is the driving force behind Trainsquare.
The Genesis of Trainsquare
Nadeen’s journey with Trainsquare began six years ago when she first conceptualized the idea. However, with a full-time job demanding her attention, the project took a back seat. The turning point came with the onset of the pandemic, highlighting the increasing need for platforms that facilitate real-world interactions. Recognizing the urgency, Nadeen resurrected her vision for Trainsquare.
“I believe society is craving authentic connections more than ever. We live in a digital age where interactions have become increasingly superficial. Trainsquare seeks to address this by bringing people together in a genuine and engaging way,” shares Nadeen.
Building a Startup, One Step at a Time
Trainsquare just launched in November 1st, and the platform is continuously adding new workshops. Nadeen’s journey from ideation to execution has been deliberate, taking six years to reach this crucial stage. In an era where immediacy is often prioritized, Nadeen’s patient and purpose-driven approach is a refreshing reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all formula for success in the startup world.
Navigating the Dual Commitment
Balancing a full-time job in chemical engineering with the demands of a startup is undoubtedly challenging, but Nadeen approaches it with grace. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining a good work-life balance and designates one day a week as a rest day, stressing the significance of prioritizing personal well-being in the midst of professional commitments.
“I strictly dedicate one day of the week as a rest day. On that day, I attend church, enjoy lunch with friends, or watch a movie. I believe it’s easy to deprioritize yourself when you’re busy, but in reality, prioritizing yourself is the most important thing,” says Nadeen.
Transparent Collaboration and Learning on the Fly
As a non-technical founder, Nadeen faced the challenge of entering a realm unfamiliar to her – the tech industry. She approached it with a “can-do” attitude, building a collaborative team and immersing herself in the learning process. From asking basic questions like “What is a server?” in early team meetings to actively engaging with experts and online resources, Nadeen exemplifies the resilience needed to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Building a Passionate Team
Trainsquare’s journey is not a solo endeavor; Nadeen has surrounded herself with a dedicated team sharing her vision. Initially, the team consisted of 11 individuals, but Nadeen acknowledges that sometimes, less is more. The current team structure includes four co-founders, two full-time developers, and external agency support for marketing. Nadeen also highlights the positive experience of working with interns, emphasizing the importance of creating a culture where continuous learning and growth are encouraged.
Empowering Workshop Hosts
Central to Trainsquare’s mission is the empowerment of workshop hosts. Nadeen and her team actively sought out hosts in Abu Dhabi, developing a database of approximately 90% of the city’s workshop offerings. Trainsquare streamlines the logistical aspects of hosting workshops, handling registration, payments, cancellations, and payouts. The platform also serves as a marketing channel, extending hosts’ reach and exposure. With a competitive commission rate of 10%, Trainsquare positions itself as an attractive option for hosts compared to other platforms with higher commission fees.
Differentiation in a Competitive Landscape
In a market saturated with various platforms, Trainsquare distinguishes itself in two key ways. Firstly, it focuses exclusively on hands-on, in-person group workshops, creating a niche within the market. The platform is committed to fostering authentic connections through real-world interactions. Secondly, Trainsquare alleviates the planning burden for hosts, offering a competitive commission rate that includes payment processing fees.
Defining Success Beyond Metrics
As Trainsquare prepares for its launch, Nadeen’s definition of success goes beyond conventional metrics. While tracking the number of hosted workshops and attendees is essential, the primary focus is on user feedback and understanding the platform’s impact on people’s well-being. With organic growth at its core, Trainsquare relies on word of mouth and its active presence on social media platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram.
Strategic Partnerships and Future Aspirations
While not actively seeking investments, Trainsquare has explored partnerships with organizations like Ma’an in Abu Dhabi, which offers incubation support for social impact startups. Nadeen remains hopeful about future opportunities and has already secured a $6,000 grant through the Watson Institute’s Western Union Foundation Fellowship.
Nadeen Awwad’s journey with Trainsquare is a testament to the diverse pathways available to entrepreneurs. Her story challenges the notion that a startup’s success hinges on rapid development and immediate full-time commitment. Nadeen’s deliberate, purpose-driven approach exemplifies resilience, passion, and the belief that success is defined by one’s unique journey.
As Trainsquare takes its first steps in Abu Dhabi, Nadeen Awwad invites the community to explore, connect, and experience the power of hands-on, in-person workshops through her innovative platform.
