At this year’s OpenConf event, entrepreneurship took on a deeper, values-driven meaning. Dimitris Tsingos, CEO and founder of Starttech Ventures, was honored with an award that he dedicated not to personal achievement but to the unsung heroes who embody resilience, purpose, and hope.

Embracing Purpose and Redefining Success: Reflections from OpenConf

In his speech, Tsingos challenged traditional views of success, often defined by material wealth, and instead championed a more inclusive perspective. He urged the audience to recognize the quiet strength of individuals like teachers in struggling communities, rural doctors, and entrepreneurs defying odds in small towns. These figures, he emphasized, exemplify true purpose and perseverance.

Redefining Success and Living with Purpose

Reflecting on his own journey, from founding Greece’s first student startup to leading Starttech Ventures, Tsingos shared valuable lessons. He highlighted the importance of believing in a vision, respecting the value of time, and continually learning to stay grounded. He also underscored the relevance of fundamental knowledge, especially in an era of rapid technological change, and the need to embrace entrepreneurial thinking to drive meaningful change.

A call for unity and action resonated throughout his message, as he reminded attendees of the importance of collaboration, solidarity, and values like freedom, equality, and justice. Tsingos also extended a heartfelt plea for a global peace movement, advocating for a future defined by compassion and progress.

Ending on a note of gratitude, he expressed hope that we can all strive for a world where success is measured not by wealth but by the positive impact we leave behind. His words served as a powerful reminder to reflect on our own purpose and consider the values we stand for.

Dimitris Tsingos Dimitris Tsingos

The Starttech Ventures Founder. Tech entrepreneur. Passionate European federalist. Dimitris has been the President of YES for Europe - European Confederation of Young Entrepreneurs [2011-15], the Founder of the Hellenic Start-up Association [2011], Board Member at EBAN - The European Business Angel Network [2014-17], 40-under-40 European Young Leader [2012-13], Marshall Memorial Fellow [2018] and a Fellow of IHEIE/PSL [2019].