Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

Neural is a platform I’m building that teaches people how to actually use AI, kind of like Duolingo but for AI skills. Lessons are short and interactive so you learn by doing, not just watching videos. I’m inspired by founders like Mark Zuckerberg and Patrick Collison who started building real products while still young, focusing on shipping early and improving as users come in. That mindset is what pushed me to start Neural.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated because I want to make a real impact in the world, but also because I want to live an above average and abnormal life. Life is short, and most people spend it following the same path as everyone else. I’m only young for a limited time, so I feel a strong push to take risks, build things, and try to create something meaningful while I have the energy and freedom to do it. That mindset keeps me moving forward.

What would you do with the $25,000?

With $25k, I would focus on growing and improving Neural in three main areas. About 60% would go to marketing, mainly short form content, creator partnerships, and ads to bring students and young professionals onto the platform. Around 25% would go toward iteration, improving lessons, adding new modules, and refining the learning experience based on user feedback. The remaining 15% would cover infrastructure and runway, including servers, AI APIs, and basic operating costs so we can keep the pla