Abelson’s Story by Its Founder
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Socrate. I am originally from Cameroon and went to college in Switzerland, where I started my career; now, I live in Ireland.
My diverse experiences and exposure to different cultures have taught me the importance of connection and understanding, which greatly influences the values and ethos of Abelson. I wanted to create a platform that reflects these principles and inspires others to embrace a refined lifestyle.
What is Abelson all about?
Abelson is a digital magazine dedicated to refinement and intellectual depth, delivering content people will not only learn from but also love to share and discuss with passion.
Why did you choose the name "Abelson"?
The name "Abelson" is a tribute to my father, Abel, who has always inspired me. He started working when he was 14 years old to financially support his mother and siblings after losing his dad. He worked hard and made many sacrifices. He always wanted to give his children the education he never had.
His sacrifices allowed me to study in Switzerland, where I experienced the value of refinement and sophistication.
What inspired you to start Abelson?
My time working at a marketing company in Switzerland was a turning point for me. Engaging with highly educated clients taught me the importance of being well-informed about elegance and sophistication. I loved the team's daily meetings where we shared insights and knowledge, and this sparked the idea of creating a platform that focuses on these values.
How did your experiences in Switzerland shape the vision for Abelson?
Living in Switzerland and immersing myself in that culture profoundly influenced my understanding of refinement. It made me realise the power of sharing knowledge and experiences, and I wanted to bring that perspective to a broader audience through Abelson.
As you brought this vision to life in Ireland, is this your main audience for Abelson?
Ireland is a key part of our audience, as it’s where Abelson is established. The rich culture and diverse community here greatly influence our work. However, we aim to reach a global audience by sharing content and experiences that resonate with people from different backgrounds.
Who contributes to Abelson?
We collaborate with a diverse group of writers, experts, and thought leaders who share our passion for elegance and quality. Each contributor brings their unique insights, enriching our content and making it resonate with our community. Additionally, I write once a month for Abelson, where I share my readings and inspirations, adding a personal touch to our offerings and connecting with our readers on a deeper level.
Can you share some of your personal interests that influence Abelson?
Absolutely! One of my favourite artists is Wilfred Lang. I acquired a beautiful painting from him, and there are no words to describe the joy it brings me every morning when I see it in my living room. One day, I was talking to Emily about my painting, and it turned out she knew him and loved his work as well, so she wrote an article about him. This connection highlights how our personal interests can lead to enriching content for our readers.
Additionally, I have a nostalgic connection to my time as a huge fan of Blackberry phones. I still have my old Blackberry Bold, which reminds me of the creativity and innovation that I admire. I understand how people can be emotionally connected to things of the past, which is why I think an article about the Aston Martin DB5 resonates with many. These personal passions shape my vision for Abelson and reflect the elegance we aspire to promote.
What can people expect from Abelson in the future?
I see Abelson reaching more people and making a bigger impact. We will keep adding new experiences and working with others who share our values. Our goal is to inspire everyday conversations for all.
