"How I Became A Founder: Omneky’s Hikari Senju" - Creativity is dead, long live curation

"How I Became A Founder: Omneky’s Hikari Senju" - Creativity is dead, long live curation

In the world of technology, constant innovation is key. The feeling of being at the forefront of societal change, the independence it brings, and the camaraderie among like-minded individuals is what drew me to this field. As a student studying computer science, I had the opportunity to attend events organized by Peter, where I met other students who shared my passion. Little did I know that these individuals would become the core of my network of founders, with whom I am still connected to this day.

Luck was on my side when I received my first investment from Village Global just days after leaving my previous job at Yup. They not only provided the necessary financial support but also incubated my company, Omneky, for the first six months. One of the most valuable aspects of this incubation period was the weekly dinners hosted by Village Global, where I had the chance to interact with other portfolio companies. These dinners became a platform for discussing challenges, sharing learnings, and building a sense of community. It truly takes a community to build a successful company, and Village Global played a critical role in getting Omneky off the ground.

As a founder, one of the key attributes that has contributed to my success is my love for reading. I believe that knowledge is power, and staying updated with the latest trends and insights in the industry is crucial. I maintain a reading list, which I constantly update with books and articles that I find valuable for my personal and professional growth. It is through reading and continuous learning that I have been able to stay ahead of the curve, adapt to changes, and make informed decisions for my company. (Note: You can find Hikari's reading list here)

Starting a company can be financially challenging for many aspiring founders. The need for a consistent income, whether it be to support oneself or provide for others in the family, often becomes a barrier to taking the risk of starting a company. Therefore, increasing access to capital is vital in enabling more people to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. A favorite quote of mine by Thomas Edison, "Everything comes to him who hustles while he waits," perfectly encapsulates the spirit of perseverance and hard work required to overcome financial obstacles and make your dreams a reality.

Now, let's shift our focus to the concept of curation and its role in today's world. The term "curator" originally referred to a caretaker of objects, someone who installed them in museums. However, over time, the role of a curator has evolved and expanded. Curators now have the responsibility of sorting through culture and showing us what we need to know and why. They play a vital role in democratizing art, bringing it to different sections of society, and integrating exhibitions into the fabric of our society.

The idea of "civic curation" has gained prominence, where curation is linked to generosity and has a larger social role. This shift towards curation as a preferred strategy for modern brands has allowed them to differentiate themselves, gain relevance, build equity, and ensure longevity. The aesthetic world and the narrative that curation creates are much harder to replicate than a brand's visual handwriting and tone of voice. By moving from manufacturing products to manufacturing culture, design, luxury, and art, brands have embraced curation as a means to tap into taste, aesthetics, identity, and social status.

Brands now find themselves under pressure to constantly create new and innovative products. However, the reality is that it is difficult to keep up with this demand for newness. This is where curation comes in. By curating the old, brands can give it renewed meaning and purpose in the eyes of consumers. Curation contextualizes products within a specific time and point of view, turning them into collectibles. It is the curators who often create this value, emphasizing the importance of brands becoming curators of their own.

Curators act as bridges between different taste communities, introducing them to one another. They have the ability to connect people, products, and ideas in a way that creates something simultaneously new and familiar. This unique approach to curation allows for the creation of experiences that resonate with consumers on a deeper level.

In conclusion, the journey of becoming a founder is filled with challenges, but with the right mindset, resources, and support, it is possible to overcome them and build a successful company. Here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals: Building a network of founders who share your passion and can provide support and guidance is invaluable. Attend events, join communities, and make connections that can help propel your entrepreneurial journey.

2. Embrace continuous learning: Stay updated with the latest trends and insights in your industry. Read books, articles, and research papers that can broaden your knowledge and provide valuable insights for your business.

3. Embrace curation as a strategy: Consider the power of curation in differentiating your brand and creating meaningful experiences for your consumers. Curate the old, give it renewed meaning, and bridge the gap between different taste communities.

By combining these elements - the journey of a founder, the importance of access to capital, and the role of curation - we can gain a holistic understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape and the strategies that can lead to success. So, let's embrace innovation, curiosity, and the power of curation as we navigate the ever-changing world of entrepreneurship.