Flashee, an AI-powered social shopping app, connects conscious consumers with independent brands around the world, promoting sustainability and ethical practices.
Could you tell us about yourself and introduce your startup to our audience?
Absolutely! I'm Arina Ponomareva, international entrepreneur and co-founder of Flashee. Flashee is an AI-powered social shopping app that connects conscious consumers with small and independent brands globally, fostering a community-driven platform based on sustainability and social responsibility.
What inspired the concept of Flashee?
The idea for Flashee came from my co-founder, Yvonne Teng, who invited me to join her in developing it. With my background in fashion and beauty, we saw an opportunity to support small brands and make sustainable fashion more accessible. Flashee is not about revolutionizing the industry; it's about helping local brands grow and connecting shoppers with eco-friendly options they might not find elsewhere.
What motivated you to launch Flashee?
The motivation to launch Flashee stemmed from recognizing the need for innovation in the fashion retail sector. We saw an opportunity to leverage technology to revolutionize the way people discover and interact with brands, while addressing the growing demand for sustainability in fashion.
Could you share Flashee's core vision and mission?
Our core vision at Flashee is to revolutionize the way people shop by providing a platform that champions small brands while promoting sustainability and ethical practices. Our mission is to create a vibrant community where conscious consumers can discover unique products that align with their values.
Can you talk about the initial challenges and difficulties you faced when starting out?
Initially, one of our main challenges was getting the resources needed to develop Flashee into a fully functional platform. With limited investments, we have successfully onboarded over 20 small but ambitious brands and generated significant interest in our product on social media. However, to take Flashee to the next level and build an MVP that showcases the power of AI to optimize the shopping experience, we need additional partners and investors.
Who do you consider the primary audience for your services?
Our core audience includes a vibrant community of conscious shoppers who value authenticity, sustainability and ethical consumption. We serve people looking for unique, high-quality fashion items, prioritizing the planet and supporting small, mission-driven brands. Our platform resonates with trendsetters who appreciate the narrative behind each product and aspire to make a positive impact through their purchasing decisions.
What sets Flashee apart from other companies in the same field?
What sets Flashee apart is our unique combination of cutting-edge technology and a deep commitment to social responsibility. Unlike other shopping platforms, we don't just deal with transactions; we prioritize purpose-driven connections between consumers and brands through AI-driven recommendations and immersive storytelling. For example, Flashee is a pioneer in artificial intelligence technology that adapts recommendations to user preferences, revolutionizing the way people discover fashion. In addition, users can seamlessly shop from brands featured on our platform, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
Could you describe a typical day at work?
My typical day is a mix of planning, meetings and getting things done. I start by catching up on emails and planning my schedule. Then it's time for meetings: discussing ideas with my team, collaborating with partners, and making decisions. I've spent a lot of time researching and strategizing to keep Flashee moving forward. And of course, there's always room for surprises and unexpected challenges along the way!
Where do you see Flashee and yourself in the next five years?
In the next five years, I see Flashee expanding its reach globally, becoming a household name in the technology and e-commerce industry. We aim to continuously innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of our users, offering new features and services that enhance the shopping experience. I personally envision leading Flashee's growth strategy, collaborating with talented people, and contributing to the advancement of technology in retail. Together, we aspire to make a significant impact on the way people shop and connect with brands around the world.
What are three pieces of advice you would offer to aspiring entrepreneurs?
First, accept failure as a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Second, surround yourself with a strong support network of mentors, peers, and advisors who can provide guidance and support along the way.
And finally, stay true to your vision and values, even in the face of challenges and setbacks, as they will ultimately guide you to success.
Thank you Arina Ponomareva for the Interview
The statements of the author and interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the opinion of the editor again.