In this episode of Sisu and Slay by Horizon, we sit down with Ala Benkherouf: a biomedical scientist, founder, community builder, and co-founder of The Splash, to explore what it looks like to leave a clear career path behind and build something entirely new. Ala shares how moving to Finland changed her perspective on work, identity, and ambition. What started as a traditional scientific path gradually evolved into a more expansive journey through side projects, volunteering, entrepreneurship, and community-building. Along the way, she discovered that the skills she built in research — analytical thinking, project management, experimentation, and long-term problem-solving — were exactly the tools she needed to grow as a founder. We also talk about the origin story of The Splash, a conference event for early-stage entrepreneurs and students in Helsinki. Ala explains why she wanted to create a space where people who are usually “in the back of the room” are brought to the center, with lower barriers to entry and a stronger sense of belonging. The conversation also dives into accessibility in Finland’s startup and talent ecosystem, why community matters, and how The Splash is designed to help people build, connect, and continue growing after the event ends.In this episode, we cover: Ala’s transition from biomedical science to entrepreneurshipThe role of curiosity, volunteering, and experimentation in career pivotsWhy research skills transfer powerfully into startup buildingHow The Splash was created and why it existsThe importance of making entrepreneurship more accessibleWhat success looks like for early-stage talent in FinlandWhy community and belonging are essential for growthAla’s advice for anyone considering a new pathYou do not have to leave your past behind to build something new.Research and entrepreneurship share the same core logic: test, learn, iterate.Career pivots often happen when you say yes before you feel fully ready.The strongest communities are built by lowering barriers, not raising them.The people who are overlooked today may be the founders, builders, and leaders of tomorrow.Ala describing the moment everything “clicked” at a pre-incubator sessionThe story of raising her hand and unexpectedly becoming chairpersonThe origin of The Splash as a simple one-page Canva pitchHer vision of bringing investors, experts, founders, and students together on the same levelHer reminder that you can “be scared later” — progress comes from action: If you want to switch careers or try something new, do it.Do not wait for the perfect moment — it usually never comes.If you want to explore entrepreneurship but do not know where to begin, come to The Splash!Ala Benkherouf on LinkedInThe Splash: thesplashforum.comAlso on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok The Splash is taking place on 28–29 August in Helsinki.
