In communist Albania, there was a strong emphasis on math and physics, while humanities subjects were often viewed with skepticism due to questionable sources of information.

My parents emphasized the importance of education and pushed for my academic advancement, which led me to excel in math and eventually skip grades in school.

Growing up, I was fascinated by solving math problems and understanding how machines work, which laid the groundwork for my interest in AI and its practical applications.

I learned the importance of money at a young age, especially during Bulgaria's hyperinflation in the 1990s, which made me acutely aware of financial struggles and the need for careful budgeting.

I grew up in Los Alamos, New Mexico, where my parents were weapons physicists, which immersed me in a culture of science and technology from a young age.

My interest in computer science was influenced by the realization that AI could solve complex problems, leading me to shift from studying physics to focusing on AI and technology.

I grew up in a tough environment as an immigrant, which shaped my intense drive to succeed and win.

Being born in Algeria, my moonshot was New York City, and I went straight there without a proper education or route to becoming a founder.

I was fascinated by how people work and communicate, which led me to study psychology and computer science.