Samiha Singh, a UC Berkeley graduate from the class of 2024 with dual degrees in Business and Computer Science, is the founder of ntwrk, an upcoming innovative AI-powered platform designed to manage and cultivate connections, both professional and personal.
Unlike LinkedIn, a traditional networking tool, ntwrk distinguishes itself with proactive email reminders that go beyond mere nudges, making it easier and more engaging for users to stay connected. The platform is based on AI-powered technology that assists in, allowing users to adjust the tone and formality to suit their needs.
Singh, who humorously notes that “the person who needs ntwrk the most is me,” was driven by her own challenges in managing a vast network of professional connections. During her time at Berkeley, she connected with student entrepreneurs through Free Ventures(link is external) and attended Dean's Speaker Series events at the Spieker Forum at Haas(link is external). These interactions, often with more seasoned graduate students and investors, provided valuable insights and fueled her passion for technology, venture capital, and entrepreneurship. As the less experienced member in these interactions, Singh often found herself responsible for maintaining these professional relationships, highlighting the need for a tool like ntwrk.
The Berkeley Changemaker(link is external) course (UGBA 156) “Living with Agency (PDF file)”, taught by Professor Laura Hassner, played a crucial role in shaping Singh’s vision for ntwrk. The course’s emphasis on proactive life management and practical assignments, such as reaching out to alumni for mentorship, inspired her to create a platform that empowers users to take charge of their professional lives. The focus on a balanced lifestyle also influenced Singh’s motivation to reduce the stress associated with maintaining professional connections through ntwrk. Her coding expertise from major-specific classes, combined with her efforts to master cutting-edge tools like Next.js, helped bring her AI platform to life.
Founding ntwrk has not only sharpened Singh’s entrepreneurial and programming skills but also allowed her to channel her creativity into a meaningful project. The platform’s focus on easing the burden of maintaining professional relationships aligns with her commitment to both professional development and mental wellness. Looking ahead, Singh plans to transform ntwrk from a static website into a fully functional web app. She also aims to expand its offerings to cater to businesses with extensive customer relationship management needs, in addition to individual users.