Nadine and Nico

What does success look like for you as a startup founder?

Nadine:
Success means creating an impact for others, even if it’s just 10 or 100 people. It also includes building a $1 billion company, creating job opportunities, and inspiring others—especially as a woman in tech in Asia, where representation is low.

Nico:
Success is seeing family and friends use the apps I build and knowing they get value from it. Helping people and seeing that impact brings pride and fulfillment.

What was going on in your life that made you first consider joining the residency?

Nadine:
I was struggling and felt burnt out, hitting a wall while trying to make progress with my startup. The stress, lack of progress, and toxic startup culture made it hard to manage my mental health. I discovered Athena at a critical time when I needed support.

Nico:
While working on a startup with Nadine, the challenges of finding funding and managing an overwhelming workload were exhausting. When Nadine found Athena, the smaller team size and mentorship focus felt less intimidating compared to big accelerators like YC.

How did you first hear about Athena VC? What made you think it was the right fit?

Nadine:
Found Athena through Instagram but initially thought it might be a scam. Rob’s thoughtful feedback on our idea convinced me otherwise—his industry knowledge and actionable advice stood out compared to other VCs.

Nico:
Nadine introduced me to Athena while researching VCs. The smaller team size felt less intimidating, and the mentorship and close-knit community appealed to me.

Can you walk me through your daily life as part of the Athena residency?

Nadine:
My routine hasn’t changed much, but the residency provides structure and support. I work a typical 9-to-5 schedule focused on research and leveraging past experience, treating my startup like a full-time job.

Nico:
My days involve learning and exploration. At Athena, I’ve spent more time researching and studying industries like energy and supply chain. The opportunity to dive into new topics keeps me engaged.

Can you give a specific example of a time working with the Athena team proved valuable to you? What do you like best about being part of the residency?

Nadine:
The structure and financial support of Athena have been transformative. It allowed me to fully commit to my startup without juggling freelancing or worrying about funding.

Nico:
The community is the best part—meeting experienced people outside Indonesia has been invaluable. The diversity of ideas and feedback is something I wouldn’t have found elsewhere.

What sort of tangible impact has being in the Athena residency had on your life?

Nadine:
Athena has removed the pressure to stick to one idea from day one, encouraging pivots and exploration. It has provided a safety net and a supportive community, making me feel less alone in the process.

Nico:
Being part of Athena exposed me to opportunities outside Indonesia, broadened my understanding of the business side of startups, and showed me how much more there is to learn.

If a peer asked you why they should choose Athena, what might you tell them?

Nadine:
Athena is ideal for those who want to learn in a supportive community with mentors offering actionable feedback. Even if you’re not sure what to build yet, the program is structured to guide you.

Nico:
Athena offers mentorship and a chance to connect with diverse, experienced individuals. It’s perfect for founders looking to explore ideas while being part of a unique, supportive environment.