Life beyond coding as a Chief Technology Officer

To start, tell us about yourself.

I am an engineer by training and I've worked across a myriad of functions including software developing, being a web architect and further on to machine learning and software development. Originally from Northern Sweden, I moved to Stockholm to study economics, telecommunication and computer science. At present, I am looking to start my own company by joining the Antler program beginning in January. It feels like a dream.

I started a company back in 2009 with some friends and we worked on a multiplayer network solution for video games. We seemed to be very successful in the beginning and got a lot of media coverage and curiosity around the product. But in the long run, it did not succeed economically. Though today, I am proud to say that even though it wasn't successful, we managed to win a Guinness world record at 999 players in the first-person shooter game category. That is a big achievement and that will always be a proud moment for me. Being an entrepreneur means possessing strong drive and quick problem-solving abilities. However, it also comes with its fair share of challenges like finding investment, mentors and most importantly getting the right team or amazing co-founders to start with.

What are your aspirations in the foreseeable future and what gets you excited?

If you ask me, I loved being my own boss when I ran my company; being successful is just one part of starting your own company! It comes with a lot of challenges, obstacles and stress. But that is what I enjoy the most - taking on challenges, overcoming obstacles and exploring a whole new world of learning new things. And of course, equally celebrating both success and failures. I enjoyed it so much that I want to do it all over again! Hence, I am greatly looking forward to start the Antler program soon.

What drives you as an entrepreneur?

I guess genetics! Throughout my childhood, I've heard inspirational stories from my parents about how my great grandfather built cars and a boat engine factory a long time ago. Those stories have inspired me to follow the less-travelled path to be an entrepreneur, just like him. And that's exactly what I am doing now!

Any tips for others who would want to embark on the entrepreneur journey?

It's hard to take that first leap away from a secure and comfortable job, to venture out on your own. However, taking a step back and looking at the bigger picture helps in your motivations. Look to the future! Imagine yourself at 70, having led a full life, would you look back and regret not taking that step to try something new. With entrepreneurship, as hard as it can be, you learn, struggle, strive and grow to become a part of something that you never thought possible. Being able to build something no one has built before and to do it with smart and ambitious people in a team - it feels amazing. There's nothing like it in the world! You'll never know if you end up being part of a world-changing idea! Specially when we live in a time where the startup ecosystem is blossoming. There are now great programs out there like Antler that offer much needed support to make your dreams a reality!