Faces of Web3: Funsho Ajibade, Sheertopia

Faces of Web3: Funsho Ajibade, Sheertopia
December 3, 2024

Funsho Ajibade is the dynamic CEO and founder of Sheertopia, a groundbreaking GameFi startup leveraging Web3 technologies to merge gaming and decentralised finance. Funsho is a visionary entrepreneur passionate about harnessing blockchain to empower players and communities. With a background spanning software development, blockchain innovation, and game design, Funsho has been a trailblazer in integrating immersive gaming experiences with decentralised financial incentives.

Inspired by the potential of Web3 to democratise access and create new economic models, Funsho and his team founded Sheertopia to bridge the gap between entertainment and financial opportunity, fostering a new era of user ownership and engagement in the gaming world. Known for his forward-thinking leadership, Funsho continues to push boundaries in the GameFi space while advocating for the transformative power of decentralised technology in shaping the future of digital interaction.

How did you get started in the Web3 space?

My journey into Web3 began in 2016. At the time, I was deeply fascinated by how blockchain could revolutionise industries beyond finance. I started by exploring Ethereum, captivated by the concept of smart contracts. While I initially dabbled in decentralised finance (DeFi), it was the rise of NFTs and their potential to transform gaming that truly drew me in. Gaming has always been a passion of mine, and the idea of merging it with blockchain to empower players felt like the perfect intersection of technology and creativity.

I am also immensely proud of my time with We Coach Crypto which is instrumental in shaping how I communicate the value of Web3 to those who may be new to the space. It’s not just about the technology—it’s about telling a story that resonates. Through their mentorship and collaborative efforts, I honed the ability to simplify complex ideas and meet people where they are in their Web3 journey. We Coach Crypto has been incredible in breaking down barriers and igniting genuine curiosity about Web3, helping me connect with a broader audience and inspire them to explore this transformative ecosystem. It’s one of those experiences that reinforces why education and collaboration are so critical in this space.

What was your motivation to start Sheertopia?

Sheertopia was born out of a desire to address a major gap I noticed in the GameFi space: inclusivity and genuine community-building. Many GameFi projects felt transactional—focused solely on earning mechanics without creating meaningful experiences or sustainable ecosystems. With Sheertopia, my goal was to build a platform that isn’t just about playing to earn but also about playing to connect, create, and grow. I wanted to give players ownership, not just in-game assets but a stake in the worlds they inhabit and help design.

The definition of ‘Web3’ is quite broad and varies depending on the industry backgrounds of the people you speak to. How do you define the term?

For me, Web3 is the evolution of digital ownership and self sovereignty. It’s a decentralised internet where users are not just consumers but also contributors, owners, and decision-makers. Unlike Web2, where centralised platforms own your data and content, Web3 ensures that individuals retain control over their identities, assets, and creations. It’s the foundation for a more equitable digital ecosystem, powered by transparency and collaboration.

What do you determine to be the biggest societal opportunities that Web3 brings?

Web3 has the potential to democratise access to wealth and provide equal opportunities for everyone. For instance, in regions with limited access to traditional financial systems, blockchain offers an open and borderless alternative. Web3 also enables creators—whether artists, gamers, or developers—to monetise their work directly without intermediaries. Additionally, decentralised governance models can empower communities to make collective decisions that align with their values, fostering collaboration on a global scale.

And what do you see as the biggest challenge that the Web3 community faces?

Adoption and trust remain our biggest hurdles. Web3 technology is complex, and many people feel intimidated or sceptical about it, often due to its association with previous scams and price volatility. Another challenge is scalability—making sure decentralised networks are fast, affordable, and user-friendly enough for mainstream use. Finally, regulation is an ever present issue. While clear rules are necessary, overly restrictive policies could stifle innovation and deter new entrants to this exciting space.

What are some career highlights in your Web3 journey so far?

One of the standout moments for me was the launch of Sheertopia‘s beta platform, where we saw thousands of players actively engaging with our game and providing feedback. Seeing our vision resonate with users was incredibly rewarding. Another highlight has been participating in industry panels where I could share insights and learn from other pioneers in the space. Lastly, forging partnerships with key players in the GameFi and blockchain ecosystems has been a testament to the growing credibility of Sheertopia.

What’s coming up for you and Sheertopia in 2024? early 2025

2024 has been an exciting year for Sheertopia. We rolled out our full platform launch in Q2, introducing innovative game modes and governance tools that let players influence the game’s evolution. We’re also expanding into AR/VR integrations to bring immersive experiences to life. On the horizon for early 2025, we’re looking to introduce cross-platform interoperability, allowing players to use their Sheertopia assets in other GameFi ecosystems. Most importantly, we’re committed to building stronger community ties and ensuring our platform continues to be shaped by its users.

What inspires you to stay motivated professionally?

Staying motivated comes from a genuine passion for creating something impactful. In the fast-evolving world of Web3 and GameFi, there’s always a sense of possibility—it’s exciting to know that the work we’re doing has the potential to redefine how people interact with digital spaces. Beyond that, the Sheertopia community inspires me daily. Seeing how players engage, provide feedback, and build connections fuels my drive to push boundaries and deliver experiences that matter. It’s also rewarding to think about the legacy we’re creating, not just for this generation but for the next.

When you’re not working, where would we most likely find you?

When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me immersed in a game—whether testing out new indie titles or replaying old classics for inspiration. Gaming has always been a way to unwind and stay connected to the core of what we do at Sheertopia. Outside of that, I love spending time with my family outdoors, whether hiking, cycling, or simply exploring new places. It’s my way of recharging and finding fresh perspectives, which often spark ideas I bring back to my work.

You can connect with Funsho on LinkedIn and X here. You can find out more about Sheertopia here and follow Sheertopia on LinkedIn, X and Instagram.

Loved Funsho’s story and want further inspiration? Discover more in our exciting “Faces of Web3” series via our blog.