Young Founder Launches Genta AI Amid University Challenges, Balances Work and Study

Mahmoud Ashraf Mahmoud Mohamed, commonly known as Komy A, is a 22-year-old university student and founder of Genta AI, an AI agent-focused startup he launched in November 2024 while studying cybersecurity at the Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation in Kuala Lumpur. After working for a UK software company in 2023, he began integrating OpenAI’s technology into his projects, enabling him to automate tasks for multiple clients. Motivated by the potential of AI, he decided to leave his job and dedicate himself fully to his startup.

Genta AI quickly expanded, attracting a team of seasoned developers with over a decade of experience in software creation. However, Komy A has faced challenges in balancing his academic obligations with his entrepreneurial ambitions. Despite the encouragement from peers to prioritize his studies, he finds himself deeply committed to Genta AI, often sacrificing the typical university experience. “I can’t slow down,” he states, expressing concern over his demanding final year while grappling with thoughts of possibly dropping out, which he ultimately wishes to avoid.

His typical day begins at 8 a.m. with a review of emails and updates, followed by classes where he often ends up working during lectures. He tries to manage his schedule carefully, but conflicts arise, necessitating mid-class exits or skipping lessons entirely. After classes, he shifts to a coworking space or café to continue his work, often until late at night to accommodate clients in the U.S. His weekends are typically reserved for internal growth at Genta, though he tries to carve out time for personal activities to disconnect.

This rigorous schedule has left Komy A feeling isolated from his peers, who are enjoying a more traditional university lifestyle. “It gets lonely,” he admits, noting the emotional toll of prioritizing work over social opportunities. The competitive nature of the tech industry poses further challenges, as he has encountered age-related biases when dealing with larger clients. He notes that some clients have attempted to take advantage of his youth, expressing a sense of disrespect that he seeks to combat by delivering exceptional results and earning their respect through performance.

Managing a diverse team spread across different countries is another learning curve for Komy A. He aims to foster a supportive environment, avoiding micromanagement while still holding his team to high standards. “The more I experience, the more I realize there’s still much I need to work on,” he reflects, emphasizing the importance of growth in his leadership capabilities.

Despite the obstacles, Komy A believes that age should not deter young entrepreneurs from pursuing their ambitions. “Many clients actually try to take advantage of me,” he states, underscoring the need for young founders to assert their worth. He encourages fellow students to take the leap into entrepreneurship, advocating for a “do now, learn later” mentality. “You should not know everything,” he asserts, emphasizing that practical experience will lead to learning and growth.

As the landscape of AI continues to evolve rapidly, the experiences of young founders like Komy A highlight the dynamic interplay between innovation and the challenges of youth in a competitive business environment. His journey serves as a compelling narrative of ambition, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge amidst the pressures of academia and entrepreneurship.