How I Became A Founder: Omneky’s Hikari Senju - Learn to Sell, Learn to Build

How I Became A Founder: Omneky’s Hikari Senju - Learn to Sell, Learn to Build

In the world of technology, innovation is the key to success. The ever-changing landscape, the independence it offers, and the camaraderie among like-minded individuals make it an exciting field to be in. For me, the feeling of being at the forefront of societal change was what drew me to computer science and ultimately led me to become a founder.

During my time studying computer science, I had the privilege of attending events organized by Peter, where I met other students who shared my passion for technology and entrepreneurship. Little did I know that these individuals would become an integral part of my network of founders, a support system that I am still connected with to this day.

Leaving my job at Yup was a big leap of faith, but I was fortunate enough to receive my first investment from Village Global just days after making that decision. Village Global played a crucial role in incubating my company, Omneky, for the first six months. They not only provided financial support but also hosted weekly dinners with other portfolio companies. These gatherings were invaluable as we discussed the challenges we faced and shared our learnings. It truly takes a community to build a successful company, and Village Global was instrumental in getting Omneky off the ground.

One of the major obstacles that aspiring founders face is financial constraints. Starting a company requires taking risks, and that can be difficult if one needs a consistent income from a job to support themselves or their family. Therefore, it is crucial to increase access to capital so that more people can take the leap and start their own ventures.

Thomas Edison once said, "Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits." This quote resonates with me deeply, as it highlights the importance of not only waiting for opportunities but actively seeking them through hard work and determination. Hustling is a key trait of successful founders, and it is what sets them apart from the rest.

The Silicon Valley startup model, as mentioned earlier, revolves around the idea of learning to sell and learning to build. This model has proven to be highly effective, with countless success stories emerging from this approach. Elon Musk, for example, is a living testament to the power of being able to both sell and build. While he may not physically build the rockets himself, his understanding of the technical aspects allows him to make significant contributions.

The true giants in any field are those who possess the ability to both build and sell. It is a rare combination that can create entire industries. While it may be challenging to find individuals who excel in both areas, it is not impossible. In fact, it is more beneficial to teach an engineer marketing than to teach a marketer engineering. Building is a skill that takes time and experience to develop, while selling can be cultivated through various means such as writing or online communication.

When trying to stand out in a crowded marketplace, being able to build is a distinct advantage. Many individuals may excel at sales and marketing, but without the ability to back it up with a solid product, they fall short. Investors are particularly drawn to those who understand the underlying product and possess the skills to build it. These individuals have the power to break down barriers and accomplish almost anything with their energy and drive.

If one had to choose between building and selling, it is advisable to start with building and then transition to selling. Building is a foundational skill that forms the backbone of any successful venture. Once the product or service is in place, one can then focus on honing their sales and marketing skills. It may be a cop-out answer, but it is the right approach for long-term success.

In conclusion, the journey to becoming a founder is filled with challenges, but with the right mindset, support system, and a combination of building and selling skills, success is within reach. To aspiring founders, I offer three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals: Building a network of founders and entrepreneurs who share your passion and can offer support and guidance is invaluable. Attend events, join communities, and actively seek out opportunities to connect with others in your field.

2. Seek financial support: Financial constraints can be a major hurdle for founders. Look for investors or organizations that can provide the necessary capital to get your venture off the ground. Increasing access to capital is crucial for more people to take the risk of starting their own companies.

3. Learn to both build and sell: While it may be challenging to excel in both areas, having a solid foundation in building and the ability to effectively sell your product or service will set you apart from the competition. Cultivate your skills in both areas, and don't be afraid to seek out resources or mentors to help you grow.

Becoming a founder is not an easy path, but with determination, a supportive community, and a diverse skill set, you can navigate the challenges and create something truly remarkable. Remember, everything comes to those who hustle while they wait.