Web3 is often framed as a technical revolution. But the communities that last aren’t always built by coders. They’re shaped by people who know how to listen, organize, and show up.
Spraky (John Carlos) was once head of engineering at a water utility company. Today, he’s YGG Pilipinas’ community manager, helping newcomers navigate Web3 through Discord events, mentorship, and real-world meetups. His background isn’t in blockchain, it’s in people. And that, he says, made all the difference.
His journey into crypto wasn’t linear. It started with curiosity, continued through trial and error, and eventually grew into a full-time commitment to education and community work.
Building Through the Bear Market
YGG Pilipinas launched near the start of a bear market. But instead of slowing down, the community leaned in. For Spraky, the downturn was a time to strengthen, not retreat.
“If you visit our Discord, we have an event almost every day... There’s always around a thousand people hanging out. They feel at home.”
The key, he believes, is consistency. Voice chats, game nights, and knowledge-sharing sessions became more than just content, they became anchors.
“This is your community... There’s fun, but we’re also learning. Even in a bear market, we ask: what opportunities do we have here in Web3 right now?”
Learning by Watching, Teaching by Showing
Spraky didn’t have a roadmap. Like many early adopters, he found his way in through YouTube videos and Discord servers.
“I’m a visual learner. So I learned by watching videos. And if you’re like me, we have a Crash Course in Metaversity. It’s there.”
His philosophy is simple: make the material approachable, and learners will meet you halfway.
“If learning is fun for you, and you don’t think that you’re studying, you’ll learn more.”
Today, YGG’s educational offerings include Crash Courses, an internship-style Marshal Program, and ongoing mentorship designed to take users from passive learners to active contributors.
From Managing Teams to Managing Communities
Before Web3, Spraky was already leading people and projects. His transition from water utilities to community management wasn’t as drastic as it may seem.
“Before, I managed people, like projects and all. So being head of a department, I have [had] experience... I didn’t have a hard time adjusting when I started as a community manager.”
His work now is focused on creating a space where learners can evolve at their own pace. As tools and roles continue to shift, the need for safe, consistent, and people-first communities remains unchanged.
He defines retention not by numbers but by mindset.
“Web3 is native. Looking for opportunities is continuous. It doesn't stop... Even in the bear market, there are still things you can do. You can actually learn new things in the space.”
Advice for Newcomers
For anyone just getting started, Spraky’s advice is rooted in his own experience. He had no wallet, no cryptocurrency background, and no roadmap, but he had the willingness to ask questions and listen.
“If you really want to know more about Web3, join the community. I think it’s the fastest and more fun way to be part of the space.”
That, he believes, is the fastest and most sustainable way to grow in the space. Communities like YGG helped him build from scratch, teaching him how to secure his wallet, avoid scams, and eventually teach others.
Spraky’s approach to Web3 isn’t based on hype or headline cycles. It’s built on steady presence, useful tools, and meaningful human connections. In a space that constantly changes, that kind of consistency is what turns first-time users into long-term builders.
