Flashee, an AI-powered social shopping app, connects conscious consumers with independent brands worldwide, promoting sustainability and ethical practices
Could you please tell us about yourself and introduce your startup to our audience?
Absolutely! I’m Arina Ponomareva, an international entrepreneur and co-founder of Flashee. Flashee is an AI-powered social shopping app that connects conscious consumers with small, independent brands globally, fostering a community-driven platform rooted in 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 isn’t 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 engage with brands while also addressing the growing demand for sustainability in fashion.
Could you share the core vision and mission of Flashee?
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 while starting up?
Initially, one of our main challenges was securing the necessary resources to develop Flashee into a fully functional platform. With limited investments, we’ve successfully onboarded over 20 small yet ambitious brands and garnered significant interest in our product on social media. However, to take Flashee to the next level and build an MVP showcasing the power of AI in optimizing the shopping experience, we require additional partners and investments.
Who do you consider the primary audience for your services?
Our primary audience includes a vibrant community of conscious shoppers who value authenticity, sustainability, and ethical consumption. We cater to individuals who seek unique, high-quality fashion items while 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 blend of cutting-edge technology and a deep commitment to social responsibility. Unlike other shopping platforms, we’re not just about transactions; we prioritize connections between consumers and purpose-driven brands through AI-powered recommendations and immersive storytelling. For instance, Flashee is pioneering AI technology that tailors recommendations to users’ preferences, revolutionizing the way people discover fashion. Additionally, users can seamlessly make purchases from brands featured on our platform, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
Could you describe a typical day at work for you?
My typical day is a mix of planning, meetings, and getting things done. I start by catching up on emails and planning out my schedule. Then, it’s time for meetings – discussing ideas with my team, collaborating with partners, and making decisions. I spend a lot of time researching and strategizing to keep Flashee moving forward. And of course, there’s always room for unexpected surprises and challenges along the way!
Where do you envision 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 tech 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. Personally, I envision myself leading Flashee’s growth strategy, collaborating with talented individuals, 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 worldwide.
What are three pieces of advice you would offer to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Firstly, embrace failure as a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey and use it as an opportunity to learn and grow.
Secondly, surround yourself with a strong support network of mentors, peers, and advisors who can offer 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 towards success.
Thank you Arina Ponomareva for the Interview
Statements of the author and the interviewee do not necessarily represent the editors and the publisher opinion again.
