AfriBlocks Network
Nadir Trapsida, an M.Eng graduate in Artificial Intelligence, merges his expertise in computer engineering with a deep passion for machine learning and data science. As a co-founder of Queva, a smart collar for dogs, Nadir combines his love for technology and animals to enhance the bond between pets and their owners. With a robust background that includes working on AI teams at Decathlon and contributing to autonomous vehicle research projects, Nadir is a versatile technologist committed to making a meaningful impact through innovation.
The Drive Behind Queva
Nadir's motivation to launch Queva was rooted in his desire to create something impactful and to embrace new challenges. "I've always been driven by the challenge of building something from scratch, knowing that every step forward is a result of hard work, creativity, and perseverance," he explains. Starting his own business provided the perfect avenue to merge his ambition with his passion for innovation.
He sought an environment that would push him out of his comfort zone, allowing him to grow both personally and professionally. "The startup journey is filled with learning opportunities, and I wanted to immerse myself in an environment where I could continuously evolve and adapt," Nadir adds. Inspired by successful entrepreneurs who turned their visions into reality, he wanted to be part of that narrative, creating something that fulfills a market need while making a positive difference in the world. "This drive to make an impact and the excitement of the entrepreneurial journey are what fueled my decision to launch my startup," he notes.
The Excitement of Innovation
For Nadir, the most thrilling aspect of building Queva is the innovation behind it. "We're introducing something fresh that people genuinely desire and need, and this anticipation fuels our enthusiasm," he says. The potential to transform the pet industry and significantly improve the lives of pets and their owners excites him the most.
One of the most exciting elements is the numerous integrations Queva can pursue with various partners. These collaborations open up a world of possibilities, allowing the company to expand its offerings and create a comprehensive ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders. "We’re not just building a business; we’re contributing to society by redefining the vision of pet care," Nadir emphasizes. The commitment to advancing standards and practices within the industry means their work will lead to happier, healthier pets and more informed pet owners, which is incredibly fulfilling for Nadir and his team.
Overcoming Team Growth Challenges
Growing Queva's team has not been without challenges. The primary difficulty lies in finding the right candidates who match the company's needs and budget. "We need senior-level expertise, but the high costs can be prohibitive," Nadir explains. To manage this, Queva offers stock options, although not everyone finds this appealing as it involves betting on the company's future.
Another challenge is sifting through numerous resumes to find individuals with the right skills who also fit the company culture. Ensuring new hires are adaptable and comfortable in a fast-paced, uncertain environment typical of startups is crucial but challenging. "Finding people who share our vision and are committed to long-term goals has been crucial but challenging," Nadir admits.
Scaling the Team for Future Success
Looking ahead, Nadir plans to scale Queva's team by increasing collaborations with various companies. "We offer a combination of monetary compensation and stock options, with additional rewards for reaching specific milestones," he explains. This approach has proven effective, providing the company with a longer runway and fostering long-term partnerships.
In the long term, Queva aims to hire individuals who are eager to learn and passionate about making a meaningful impact. "By nurturing talent that aligns with our vision and values, we aim to build a dedicated and dynamic team committed to our mission," Nadir states. This strategic approach ensures that Queva continues to grow and innovate while maintaining a strong, cohesive team.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Founders
Nadir has valuable advice for aspiring founders embarking on their startup journey: "It will be challenging, there are no shortcuts and plenty of sacrifices to be made. But if you truly love what you're doing, push through." He emphasizes the importance of focusing on creating something people truly need, not just something cool. "Don't fear failure; it's a crucial part of the journey. Embrace it, learn from it, and keep moving forward," he advises.
Connecting with Nadir Trapsida
For those interested in following Nadir Trapsida's journey and learning more about his work, he is active on several social media platforms. "You can find me on LinkedIn and on Medium, I share my thoughts and experiences at https://medium.com/@trapsidanadir," he shares. Nadir's projects and contributions are also available on GitHub at https://github.com/trapsidanadir. For a comprehensive list of all his social media profiles and additional links, visit his Linktree at https://linktr.ee/nadtraps.
Nadir Trapsida's dedication to innovation and his passion for technology and animals have driven him to co-found Queva, a smart collar for dogs that enhances the bond between pets and their owners. His diverse experience and commitment to making a meaningful impact through AI and data science ensure that Queva will continue to thrive and revolutionize the pet care industry.
