Founder Stories, sponsored by Fidelity Private Shares and Shields Group
NextUp by Lvl Up Ventures would like to welcome the fifth chapter of our Founder Stories series, where we delve into the extraordinary lives of Gen Z CEOs who are shaping the future of business, innovation, and social change. Today, we shine the spotlight on Jenk Oz, an 18-year-old trailblazer whose multifaceted talents and unwavering dedication have propelled him to the forefront of entrepreneurship and activism.
From being featured in over 250 articles in prestigious publications like Forbes and Business Insider to receiving accolades such as the Diana Award 2021, Jenk's journey is nothing short of remarkable. But how did it all begin?
Reflecting on his humble beginnings, Jenk recalls not even grasping the concept of entrepreneurship initially. His journey commenced at the age of 8 with a simple Show and Tell presentation at school, eventually culminating in the creation of his first website, iCoolKid, after three years of relentless dedication.
However, the road to success was fraught with challenges. Hiring and firing three different website builders underscored the frustrations and setbacks he encountered. Yet, Jenk's unwavering positivity and determination propelled him forward. With the launch of iCoolKid.com in 2016, Jenk's platform began to attract attention, not only for its curated content but also for becoming a sounding board for fellow Gen Zers worldwide.
As messages poured in, detailing the struggles and aspirations of his peers, Jenk's perspective broadened. He realized the imperative to leverage his platform for meaningful change. Thus, the transformation from iCoolKid to Thred commenced in 2019, marked by a strategic rebranding and a laser focus on social change initiatives.
Thred Media's three pillars — Publishing, Community, and Consulting — converge to amplify voices and catalyze action within the Gen Z demographic. With Thred.com as its flagship, the platform has garnered global traction, boasting visitors from 180+ countries and a dedicated team spread across London and remote locations.
Central to Thred's ethos is the belief in the power of youth activism. Jenk emphasizes that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to the larger tapestry of social change. Whether through online activism or traditional advocacy, Gen Z's impact is tangible and significant.
Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Jenk's eclectic interests span the realms of entertainment and arts. From starring in films alongside luminaries like Idris Elba to gracing the West End stage, his dynamic presence resonates across various spheres.
Despite his whirlwind schedule, Jenk remains grounded, attributing his success to perseverance, empathy, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Alongside his mother, Carmen Greco, Jenk is pioneering a new narrative for digital media—one rooted in authenticity, inclusivity, and social impact.
As the youngest CEO in Britain, Jenk Oz embodies the spirit of possibility and innovation, inspiring a generation to dream boldly and act decisively in shaping a brighter future for all.
As always, we'd like to thank Fidelity Private Shares and Shields Group for sponsoring our Founder Stories.
Thank you for your continued support, and here's to many more inspiring Founder Stories to come!
Warm regards,
Jasmine Imanverdi
