About Datalumina®

We don’t just work with data — we push its boundaries. Specializing in bespoke data solutions and cutting-edge education, we empower businesses and professionals to master the digital economy.

Who we help

We help (aspiring) data analysts, engineers, scientists, and experts — essentially anyone who works with data professionally — to leverage the power of data and AI. Our goal is to equip you with in-demand skills and strategies to succeed as a freelancer in the digital economy. You might have the skills necessary to start a freelancing business, but lack the structures, systems, tools, and guidance on how to get there.

What we do

We help these data professionals to kick-start their freelance career and lay the foundations to scale to 6-figures in yearly revenue. Essentially, we help them to make more money, work on fun projects and create freedom. We do this through Data Freelancer by collaborating with them and providing educational resources and support for marketing, sales, mindset and business development, as well as connecting data professionals with like-minded individuals and potential clients.

Our philosophy

A "successful" freelance business for us means earning $100k+ /year, working on fun projects, happy clients, and a chill lifestyle. To achieve this balance, we follow a philosophy built on 7 core principles.

  • The success of our clients is our top priority.

  • Embrace the concept of “less is more”.

  • Deliver reliable, scalable solutions with a focus on systematic efficiency and sustainability.

  • Base decisions and actions on data.

  • Do less, better.

  • Insist on the highest standards of quality and performance.

  • If you’re not enjoying the process, you’re doing it wrong.

Our story

Part 1 — Studying Artificial Intelligence

It began in 2013 when I, Dave Ebbelaar, decided to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Artificial Intelligence. At that time, not having written a single line of code, I quickly became overwhelmed by everything there was to learn about data science and artificial intelligence. I was frustrated by the way the material was taught, constantly thinking, "Isn’t there an easier way to explain this?"

Part 2 — Frustration > Excitement

Despite the frustration, I persisted. The challenges continued up to the fourth and final year, right through to the last course before my Bachelor’s thesis. It was then that I was introduced to machine learning and natural language processing. During this period, I also discovered that you can write Python code in an IDE and save files instead of opening up a new terminal each time (yes, it took me four years to figure that out).

Part 3 — Bachelor > Master

Despite having doubts about whether I truly wanted a career in the field. I opted to pursue a Master's degree in AI, but the familiar sense of frustration with university courses soon resurfaced. I considered most lectures unproductive and felt as though I was there solely for the qualification. Nevertheless, I persisted and ultimately graduated.

Part 4 — Student > Data Freelancer

After graduating, I faced the reality of the job market and was disappointed by the offered salaries. I already had a successful side hustle as a freelance videographer and began questioning a traditional career path. An opportunity to work as a freelance data scientist confirmed my decision to pursue a non-traditional route — the rest is history. I've never looked back and soon found ways to consistently secure freelance clients as a data professional. Over the years, I've continually refined how I run my business, find leads, build my personal brand, close deals, and increase my revenue.

Part 5 — Datalumina

Through Datalumina, I aim to share the insights I've learned over the years and want to show that you don’t need a formal degree. In 2022, I down scaled my freelance business and began producing weekly YouTube videos. The concept was successful, and the channel gained traction. Although the channel's focus was on technical data skills, viewers also started to ask questions about my freelance journey. That is when the idea for Data Freelancer was born. Fast-forward to 2024, and we have now helped over 50 data professionals to get started with freelancing.