Harvard Innovation Labs’ Post

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dries Carmeliet (1991-2024), co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Acelab. Dries tragically lost his life on June 22, 2024 due to injuries from a recent bicycle accident. His loss is deeply felt by our company, the architecture and construction industry, and all who knew him. A visionary architect, innovator, and entrepreneur, Dries co-founded Acelab in 2019, contributing significantly to our growth and success. His journey was marked by exceptional academic achievements and a diverse skill set. Dries held a Master of Science in Architecture Studies with a focus on Urbanism from MIT. He also earned a Master of Science in Engineering: Architecture from KU Leuven with magna cum laude honors. Dries was truly multitalented, constantly working to develop and perfect his skills. His passion for learning extended beyond architecture to artificial intelligence, completing courses from both MIT and Caltech. His diverse talents included classical piano and organ training, as well as practical skills in woodworking and welding. Dries was also an accomplished athlete, excelling in marathons and exceptional bike rides. Prior to co-founding Acelab, Dries' professional experience included roles as a Certified Architect, Research Associate at MIT, and eventually an entrepreneur at Harvard Innovation Labs and MIT designX Accelerator. He was known for his brilliance, kindness, and enthusiasm, inspiring those around him with his generosity and friendly nature. Dries had an extraordinary ability to maximize his talents, consistently performing at the highest level while remaining humble and supportive of others. As his mentor, Prof. Alexander D'Hooghe, noted, "He stood head and shoulders above his peers, yet he was very generous and kind to those around him." We invite you to share your memories of Dries at https://lnkd.in/e7D_S4S8 as we celebrate his profound impact. Acelab remains committed to the vision Dries helped shape, and we will continue to innovate and grow, inspired by his dedication and passion. Dries will be deeply missed, but his legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the work he helped create. Our thoughts are with Dries' family, friends, and all who knew him during this difficult time.

Harvard Innovation Lab article tracing the BitMal journey: https://lnkd.in/eJ6kWEw2 We would like to thank the Harvard Innovation Lab for the valuable and unwavering support over last 2 years. Special thanks to: - Our dear mentor Thara Pillai for going above and beyond to support us and help us navigate challenging times Her strategic & critical advices have been instrumental to the success of BitMal - Our dear mentor Phillip Green for providing us with eye opening feedbacks , valuable insights and pushing us to get the best out of us - Alex Parks for vesting time and efforts to beautifully tell our story and narrate our journey - Rebecca Xiong, PhD , Rebekah Emanuel and Peter Gladstone for their continuous support Would also like to take this opportunity to thank: - Our partners notably Takaful Charity Foundation, Jarir BookstoreJahez International Company , Nana | نعناع , Wassilni - وصّلني, Daffah , Thaki. Unlock their potential, American University of Beirut Digital Skills Training Program, Ruwwadjo - Members of our BitMal family for their dedication, commitment, high ethical standards and integrity - Every single one who supported us along the journey