- Holly's journey from South Korea to the US.
- Gemini AI streamlined restaurant operations.
- A staffing crisis sparked a revolutionary idea.
- WorkOnward empowers 13,000+ job seekers in NYC.
Holly, a dedicated entrepreneur, initially harnessed the power of Gemini AI to navigate the demanding world of restaurant ownership. Her personal experience with operational challenges and a critical staffing shortage ultimately inspired her to create WorkOnward, an AI-powered platform designed to make job searching and hiring more accessible and equitable for everyone.
Holly's journey began with a move from South Korea to the US in 2005, driven by a passion for food that led her to open her own restaurant. The realities of running a small business, however, proved challenging. From managing menus and marketing to budgeting and inventory, the daily grind was immense. It was in this demanding environment that Holly discovered Gemini AI, a tool that significantly streamlined her operations, even enabling her to rebuild her website with Autograder and Stitch to include a custom chatbot.
The turning point arrived during a last-minute scramble to find a dishwasher. This critical staffing emergency became Holly's "aha moment," igniting a desire to help other small businesses and job seekers connect more efficiently. Recognizing the potential of AI to bridge these gaps, she assembled a small team and utilized Gemini models to develop WorkOnward, an inclusive hiring platform.
WorkOnward distinguishes itself from traditional job sites by directly addressing common barriers. The platform translates job postings and, remarkably, allows job applications to be submitted simply by text. This innovative approach helps break down barriers for individuals who may not be tech-savvy, ensuring that more people have the opportunity to find suitable employment and their rightful place in the workforce.
Today, WorkOnward has grown from a simple idea into a robust platform serving over 13,000 people in New York City. Holly emphasizes that the core mission is about "honoring the dignity of workers and small businesses." Her story is a powerful testament to how AI, when applied thoughtfully, can not only solve business challenges but also foster greater equity and opportunity within communities.
“It's about honoring the dignity of workers and small businesses, and I think that's the power of AI.”
- Holly, Restaurant Owner
