The future is now: Unlocking the power of young entrepreneurs
The rise of the 20-something business owner
In a world where technology and innovation are constantly evolving, a new breed of entrepreneurs is emerging. Meet the young guns of the business world, who are taking the leap and starting their own ventures. With ambition and a fresh perspective, these Gen Zers are challenging the status quo and making their mark.
Ayerbe's journey: From corporate to startup
Arnau Ayerbe, a recent graduate from the University of Bath, had it all - a coveted role at JP Morgan. But something was missing. He realized that the corporate world wasn't inspiring him, and he wanted more. So, he took a bold step and joined forces with his high school buddy, Pablo Jiménez de Parga Ramos, and their university friend, Bergen Merey, to create Throxy - an AI-powered sales team solution.
Throxy's success story
Throxy's founders, all aged 24, have achieved remarkable success. With nearly £5 million in funding and annual sales close to £1.2 million, they are a shining example of what young entrepreneurs can accomplish. But it hasn't been easy. Ramos describes their work culture as a demanding '9-9-6' schedule, and Ayerbe admits he had no idea of the dedication required.
The AI advantage
One key advantage Throxy's founders possess is their familiarity with AI. In an era where AI is transforming industries, their comfort with the technology gives them an edge. Garcia, in particular, felt a natural connection to building an AI-led business, having worked with early Chat GPT models before their public release.
Unicorn potential
Research suggests that the future of AI startups lies with younger entrepreneurs. The average age of founders of AI unicorns (companies valued at over $1 billion) has dropped significantly, from 40 in 2020 to 29 in 2024. Throxy's founders could be the next big thing, and their story inspires other young entrepreneurs to dream big.
The challenge of being underestimated
However, running a business in your 20s comes with its own set of challenges. Rosie Skuse, founder of Molto Music Group, knows this all too well. Often mistaken for an assistant, Skuse had to prove her worth and establish herself as the boss. Despite the initial hurdles, she turned this into an advantage, using the shock factor to her benefit and gaining the respect of her clients.
Molto Music Group's success
Molto Music Group, a music and entertainment agency, has thrived under Skuse's leadership. With high-end clients like The Dorchester and Soho House, the agency has made its mark. Despite the challenges of the Covid pandemic, the business is thriving, with a turnover of £1.6 million in 2025 and a team of seven full-time staff. Skuse's success story is a testament to the power of youth and innovation.
Advice from experienced founders
But what do more experienced entrepreneurs have to say about this trend? Lee Broders, a 53-year-old serial entrepreneur, believes that scaling a business sustainably is key. He warns against focusing solely on quick growth, as it may not lead to long-term success. Sarah Skelton, co-founder of Flourish, a recruitment firm, echoes this sentiment. She emphasizes the importance of leadership skills and a strong network, which may be best developed through traditional work experiences.
The debate: Young vs. experienced
So, is youth an advantage or a hindrance in the world of entrepreneurship? While young founders bring fresh ideas and a unique perspective, experienced entrepreneurs highlight the value of leadership skills and a robust network. What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the discussion!
