KendaArt

Due to the constraints brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Arab Innovation Academy’s 2021 program was conducted online for the first time ever. 

The program promoted Qatari home-grown talent, cultivating their unique ideas and offering a launching pad for the development of their first product feature through real consumer input and investor pitches.

AIA 2021 ran for a length of twelve weeks, resulting in a fully integrated, accredited online study curriculum that walked students through a hands-on process of developing a scalable business model. 

The intense online curriculum broadened participants’ learning experiences, providing a solid basis for successfully launching their digital firms and realizing their business goals. 

Among the hundreds of students who participated, the KendaArt team distinguished itself for innovation, boldness, and future-oriented thinking. KendaArt got to the TOP 3 teams in the AIA 2021.

Currently, the team of five is working on some exciting projects in the field of digital education. We had the pleasure to interview Mumen Al-Hamed, CEO and founder of KendaArt.

 

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? What are your passions in life?

I studied civil engineering at the University of Jordan, and I am currently studying data science and artificial intelligence. But my life began to change when I entered the field of innovation and entrepreneurship in 2020.

Since I was a child, I’ve been striving to be of impact and value. I have a passion for the field of innovation and entrepreneurship. I am especially interested in Arabic content since I believe it is of great value.

How important do you think entrepreneurship education is for university graduates?

In my opinion, innovation has become a requirement for every university student in the age of technology.

 

How was your AIA experience? What were the most valuable takeaways and the biggest challenges you faced?

My experience in AIA was adventurous and full of developments. It was a great experience in all respects, but there were challenges. For example, idea formation requires mentors and getting the best entrepreneurial startup company is challenging. 

The most important lesson we learned is to choose an appropriate team to work with, take notes and feedback from coaches, and focus on success. 

 

How did AIA 2021 help you in the process of setting up KendaArt?

Well, joining AIA made us benefit from an incredible breadth of information. I expected to leave the program with several outcomes––including development, networking, valuable notes, and initial investment. And I did. 

AIA has been a great supporter of us in many aspects of networking, persistence, and development, in addition to follow-up and taking valuable notes from the coaches, which created great value for us to properly form Kenda.

 

What’s the current situation with Kenda Art? Any news to share with us and our audience?

Currently, we are working on developing our own artificial intelligence algorithm dedicated to developing students’ skills and abilities, focusing especially on teaching Arabic calligraphy through digital tools.

Our aim is to make the education process more interactive and enjoyable. 

We contacted several investment agencies to obtain an initial investment and support from several areas to accelerate the development process.

 

What has happened since the last day of the program?

We’ve been nominated to attend the most important technological conference in the world, the Consumer Technology Association. It took place in Las Vegas from January 5th to January 8th, 2022. 

Here, we’ve been able to network and find opportunities to enhance Kenda with cutting-edge technology.

 

Any advice or comments for people who are thinking about applying? Why should they not miss out on this opportunity?

My advice is to follow your passion, no matter what it takes. In the end, you will reach the goal. Believe in an idea that can be of value and have a great impact on your life and the lives of others.
The biggest challenge and the way are difficult but fun. Follow your passion, whatever it takes. Be the light all the time.