The Token2049 event in the United Arab Emirates presented a significant challenge for members of the crypto community who made the journey. Despite facing numerous difficulties, the number of attendees who persevered and made it to the event surprised community leaders.
On April 18, the attendees were confronted with blocked roads and obstacles that would have discouraged many from continuing their journey. Some leaders in the industry, who were scheduled to have interviews with Cointelegraph, were stranded in different airports and had to cancel their plans.
Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino experienced a delay of two hours in the air as the plane was unable to land due to a storm. Luckily, he only had to endure a short additional time in the sky. Reflecting on the situation, Ardoino expressed gratitude for the determination and resilience of the crypto community. He stated:
“I was fortunate to witness the incredible commitment of the crypto community members who made it to the event despite the challenges. Their persistence is truly commendable.”
Ava Labs founder Emin Gün Sirer also shared the obstacles his team faced while traveling to the event. They encountered a massive storm during the landing, which resulted in a five-hour delay, far exceeding the expected 20 minutes. However, Sirer believes that attending the event was the right decision and that it was worth the hardships. He remarked:
“The journey here was incredibly difficult, with the storm causing significant disruptions. However, being a part of this event has proven to be an invaluable experience.”
Despite the challenges faced by attendees, the event was a resounding success. In fact, on the first day, the Token2049 team had to stop accepting new registrations as all tickets had been sold out. The crypto community members embraced the various activities offered at the event, including informative talks, project booths, and networking opportunities.
Overall, the crypto community demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of adverse conditions. Their determination to participate in the event, despite a historic storm, showcased their unwavering commitment to the industry.