By Hana Anandira
Start-up leaders buoyant on impactful tech
A trio of start-up founders opened the first session of 4YFN with optimism, underlining the role of frontier technology in overcoming issues faced in a range of sectors including education, the green economy and healthcare.
Pere Duran, Event Series Director of 4YFN claimed next-generation leaders in the tech industry “can support the industry’s transition to a greener future” through emerging tools such as AI and the metaverse.
“The start-up ecosystem now is more mature than when we first launched in 2016 and is more resilient in navigating unexpected times”, Duran said, crediting “the new wave of individuals” who are actively seeking to explore new ways of using smart technologies to progress a more inclusive future.
Frontier tech
Duran described frontier technology as a “force for change” in creating breakthrough innovations.
A case in point is Austria-based company Gostudent, which uses digital tools and AI to create an tailor-made, online learning environment for students.
Founder Felix Ohswald pointed to teacher shortages as “the most fundamental problem” in learning gap across the globe, along with the lack of support and access for children to quickly adapt to digital developments.
The purpose of deploying tech for social good also holds true for Cecilia Tham, CEO of research and design technology start-up Futurity Systems. The entrepreneur highlighted the company’s metaverse and AI play, including a collaboration with hospitals to generate 3D respiratory models using digital fabrication tools.
Also appearing on stage was Funda Sezgi, CEO of venture capital for start-ups Norrsken, which provides young entrepreneurs with funds and links to key industry players.