YK Poudel

Artistic inspiration plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and entrepreneurship, and it could be the key to success for Bhutanese entrepreneurs.

During a session titled ‘The Power of Art: Driving Innovation and Entrepreneurship’ at the Bhutan Innovation Forum (BIF), Evan Spiegel, the CEO of Snap Inc discussed how creativity has been integral to Snapchat’s development and success.

With over 850 million monthly active users globally, Snapchat is a leading multimedia instant messaging platform known for its ephemeral messages and images.

Snapchat is a messaging app for communication that allows users to send photos, videos, and messages that disappear after being viewed or within 24-hours.

He also highlighted the recent launch of AR Spectacles, showcasing Snap’s commitment to pioneering technologies like augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI).

Reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, which began at just 22 years old, he emphasized the influence of artistic inspiration on Snap’s product design.

Four years after launching Snapchat, Spiegel became one of the world’s youngest billionaires.

Evan Spiegel shared insights into the initial challenges he faced, revealing that an early investment of only USD 485 kickstarted his entrepreneurial journey. Evan Spiegel said that a common challenge in creativity is the fear of rejection.

He also highlighted the importance of mental health, introducing Snapchat’s “Here for You” feature, designed to support users in difficult times. “By embedding creative expression into Snapchat’s features, the platform has transformed communication, enabling users to connect in innovative ways,” he said.

Embrace art as a key element in any venture, he said, drawing parallels between Snap’s achievements and the goals of the forum.

The session addressed several pertinent questions, including how Snapchat’s unique approach to AR and AI can foster innovation in Bhutan’s growing tech ecosystem.

He said that a generational shift in Snapchat’s user base with teenagers leading the way has occurred, and it has remained appealing to a wider audience, including families.  “The potential for enhancing features that facilitate family connections, a reflection of Bhutan’s strong cultural values,” he said.