Silas Adekunle, a name that may still be unfamiliar to many, is poised to make a significant impact in the world of robotic technology with his groundbreaking innovations and creativity in the tech industry.
Often referred to as the “little genius,” this tech entrepreneur has channeled his passion for robotics into carving a unique space for himself in the global tech world. His journey took a major leap forward with a significant deal with tech giant Apple Inc., solidifying his status as a rising star in the industry.
Adekunle’s journey began in Lagos, Nigeria, before he moved to the United Kingdom. His deep interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics inspired him to explore how these technologies could educate and inspire future generations. Unlike many who let their dreams fade away, Adekunle took bold steps as a student, co-founding Reach Robotics, a company dedicated to creating consumer robots. Before its closure, Reach Robotics had secured an estimated $10 million in funding.
The company made waves in the tech industry with its creation of MekaMon, the world’s first gaming robot that seamlessly blends augmented reality (AR) with robotics. This innovative creation led to a partnership with Apple in 2017, allowing MekaMon to be sold in Apple stores worldwide.
MekaMon, a four-legged robot controllable via smartphone, captivated the tech world. Adekunle’s expertise in combining AR with robotics allowed users to engage in interactive battles and challenges, making the gaming experience unique and immersive. The robot’s unique design and advanced functionality garnered significant attention from both consumers and industry experts.
Despite fierce competition in the crowded tech industry, Adekunle steered Reach Robotics until 2019, when the company ultimately shut down. The challenges were substantial, but Adekunle’s determination never wavered. He went on to found a new robotics company, Awarri, which focuses on advancing robotics and AI to drive technological innovation in Africa.
Unlike Reach Robotics, Awarri emphasizes educational technology and leveraging robotics for social impact, aiming to boost Africa’s standing in the global tech market alongside dominant regions like Asia and Europe.
Beyond his role as a tech entrepreneur, Adekunle is also a social entrepreneur committed to making a local impact. In 2020, he founded the Inventors’ Club, an initiative designed to empower young people to invent, create, and solve real-world problems using technology. This aligns with his broader goal of fostering change in social settings through innovation.
Silas Adekunle’s contributions to the tech and robotics industries have made him a key figure, particularly in the areas of STEM education and African tech development. In 2018, Forbes recognized his ingenuity by including him in the “30 under 30 – Europe Technology” list, highlighting MekaMon as a groundbreaking achievement.
Forbes noted that Apple was “impressed by the quality of his robots and their ability to show emotion with subtly-calibrated movements,” pricing MekaMon at $300 and selling it in nearly all of its U.S. and UK stores.
Adekunle’s achievements also earned him a spot on The Times’ list of “Maserati 100, Meet the Innovators,” further showcasing how his creativity has established him as a leading innovator in the tech world. Reflecting on his success, Adekunle attributes it to his passion for change, creativity, and his desire to develop technologies that benefit humanity.
Despite his global recognition, Adekunle has not forgotten his Nigerian roots. He met with Nigeria’s then-Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, to reiterate his commitment to advancing AI and robotics in the country.
Today, Adekunle is among the highest-paid robotics engineers in the world, and his second company, Awarri, has unveiled a multilingual language model to boost AI development in Nigeria.
While little is known about Adekunle’s luxurious lifestyle, his passion for technology and robotics continues to drive his efforts and achievements in the tech industry.
