Today I’m joined by a very special friend of mine today, Lana Hopkins.
Another Aussie! Lana has spent the last 10 years building consumer facing brands that blend tech and products.
She started her first venture, Mon Purse, in 2014 when we were just getting used to this new and exciting world of social media platforms like Facebook, after exiting in 2018 she’s now launching her latest venture, Some Place as the world starts moving into the metaverse.
Some·place gives individuals the ability to collect, curate and flex their NFT collections; in a social, 3D space and in real-life, via exciting augmented reality interactions. Now I have to say - I’m not entirely versed on all things NFT’s and crypto so I’m trying my best in this episode and I learn a lot from Lana. I hope you you do too!
What Is the Metaverse?
Fast forward to 2022, and the metaverse is not just a concept; it’s becoming a reality. This virtual-reality space allows users to interact with computer-generated environments and each other in ways we never thought possible. At its core, the metaverse represents a shift in our online economy—a web-based economy where we can explore, create, and socialize like never before.
Introducing Some.Place
Lana’s vision for Some.Place is to redefine the narrative of the metaverse, making it a space that’s accessible and welcoming to women and mainstream communities often marginalized in the NFT and blockchain realms. “Why aren’t more women involved in this space?” she questions, highlighting a crucial barrier to entry that her platform aims to dismantle.
Creating Meaningful Connections
Some.Place was conceived as a digital space where like-minded individuals could connect and collaborate. Remember those days of making friends at summer camp or school? Well, in the world of Web3, we have the chance to recreate those authentic experiences in an immersive and engaging way. Instead of connecting through social media platforms, Some.Place allows users to interact in beautifully designed 3D worlds, redefining what it means to socialize in a digital space.
Decentralization vs. Centralization
In a world dominated by Big Tech, the principles of decentralization are more important than ever. Web2 has been heavily centralized, with platforms like Facebook and Amazon dictating how we communicate and interact. Lana points out that this has led to a growing skepticism about the traditional paradigms of the internet. “The internet was meant to give us more control, but it hasn’t quite turned out that way,” she reflects.
So, what role does Some.Place play in this landscape? Lana outlines three key focuses:
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Changing the Narrative: The platform is committed to engaging with its audience in a way that resonates with them, considering every touchpoint from a user experience perspective.
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Simplifying the Process: Some.Place aims to make the metaverse accessible by streamlining processes and removing the intimidating barriers that often accompany new technology.
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Elevating Aesthetic Beauty: By enhancing the visual appeal of their spaces, Some.Place fosters a sense of familiarity and comfort, inviting users to explore and engage.
Embracing the Beauty of Web3
Right now, Some.Place is on a mission to help people see the beauty and potential of Web3. By breaking down barriers, they’re offering users the opportunity to trade, collect, and flex their creativity. Upon entering the app, users select their avatar and are welcomed into stunning personal spaces where they can collect NFTs from various collaborations and drops. Lana emphasizes the importance of partnering with female-led brands and artists, ensuring that women have a significant presence in this digital landscape.
The platform transforms everything into a 3D experience, enhancing utility and engagement, making users feel as if they’re truly part of something special.
Conclusion
Lana Hopkins and Some.Place are paving the way for a more inclusive metaverse, one that breaks down barriers and empowers women and marginalized communities. As we navigate this new digital frontier, it’s essential to embrace the opportunities for connection, creativity, and collaboration that platforms like Some.Place offer. So, if you’re ready to dive into the metaverse, remember that there’s a place for you to explore, create, and thrive!