QUICK INFO BOX
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | John Imah |
| Nick Name | “Michael Jordan of Tech” |
| Profession | Tech Entrepreneur / CEO / Investor |
| Date of Birth | December 14, 1988 |
| Age | 37 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Dallas, Texas, USA |
| Hometown | Dallas, Texas |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Nigerian-American |
| Current Residence | Los Angeles, California |
| Education | Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems |
| University | University of Texas at Arlington (Class of 2011) |
| First Startup | SYNC-CONCEPTS (Mobile Game Development) |
| Second Startup | SRSS-Rendering LLC (3D Solutions) |
| Current Company | SpreeAI |
| Position | Founder & CEO |
| Industry | AI / Fashion Tech / E-Commerce |
| Known For | Leading $1.5B AI Fashion Unicorn, First AI Startup CEO Invited to Met Gala |
| Years Active | 2004-Present (22+ years) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $400 Million |
| Company Valuation | $1.5 Billion (SpreeAI) |
| Total Funding Raised | $80+ Million for SpreeAI |
1. Introduction
John Imah’s path from teenage business owner to leader of a $1.5 billion fashion-tech company marks a transformation in who drives global innovation. At just 37 years old, this Nigerian-American visionary has become one of the most influential figures at the intersection of artificial intelligence and fashion retail.
Before turning 16, Imah had created and sold two businesses—a mobile game development firm and a company providing tools for 3D professionals. Today, as the founder and CEO of SpreeAI, he leads a unicorn company that’s revolutionizing how consumers shop online with photorealistic AI-powered virtual try-on technology achieving 99% sizing accuracy.
From holding executive positions at tech giants like Samsung, Amazon (Twitch), Meta, and Snap Inc. to founding one of the most talked-about AI fashion platforms, Imah’s journey embodies innovation, resilience, and cultural intelligence. His rise reflects a wider movement of African and diaspora innovators transforming global tech.
In this comprehensive biography, you’ll discover John Imah’s early life, entrepreneurial journey, the companies he’s built, his estimated net worth, leadership philosophy, and the lifestyle of one of tech’s most dynamic rising stars.
2. Early Life & Background
John Imah was born on December 14, 1988, in Dallas, Texas, to Nigerian immigrant parents who came to America seeking better opportunities for their family. His family experienced poverty, and when his parents made sacrifices to relocate to America, they hoped to create a brighter future.
Growing up in a traditional Nigerian household, Imah and his three siblings were steered toward conventional career paths. As first-generation Nigerian Americans, John and his siblings shared one goal: becoming doctors or lawyers. Several family members did become doctors and nurses, fulfilling their parents’ dreams. But John had different plans.
His interest in technology emerged as early as age seven, when he took apart his first computer. “My parents knew early on because when I was 7 years old, I took apart my first computer. It was just a natural God-given talent,” Imah recalled. “They were pissed.”
Despite his parents’ initial frustration, young John’s fascination with technology only grew stronger. He stayed true to his passion for technology and gaming, driven by the strong work ethic his parents instilled. While tech remained in a “gray bubble” for most of his family, John dove deep into learning programming, game development, and the digital world.
He became a self-taught coder, dedicating himself to mastering the intricacies of technology. This early self-education would become the foundation for an extraordinary entrepreneurial career that began before he could even drive a car.
The challenges of being a first-generation immigrant, witnessing his family’s financial struggles, and navigating cultural expectations to pursue an unconventional path shaped Imah’s determination and innovative mindset. These experiences would later inform his commitment to diversity in tech and his drive to inspire underrepresented communities.
3. Family Details
| Relation | Name | Profession |
|---|---|---|
| Father | Not Publicly Disclosed | Nigerian Immigrant |
| Mother | Not Publicly Disclosed | Nigerian Immigrant |
| Siblings | Three Siblings | Various (includes doctors/nurses) |
| Spouse | Not Publicly Disclosed | – |
| Children | Not Publicly Disclosed | – |
John Imah maintains privacy regarding his personal and family life, focusing public attention on his professional achievements and entrepreneurial ventures.
4. Education Background
High School: Dallas, Texas (Name not publicly disclosed)
University: University of Texas at Arlington
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems (2011)
Academic Journey: John Imah attended the University of Texas at Arlington, where he earned his degree in Management Information Systems in 2011. Even before and during his college years, Imah was already building businesses and gaining practical experience in the tech industry.
Rather than waiting until graduation to enter the workforce, Imah actively sought internships and work opportunities with technology companies during his college years. These early professional experiences at various tech firms allowed him to develop valuable skills that would later prove essential in his career at major corporations like Take-Two Interactive and Facebook.
Imah’s educational approach combined formal academic training with hands-on entrepreneurial experience. By the time he graduated, he had already launched and exited two startups, giving him a level of practical business acumen that far exceeded typical college graduates.
Philanthropic Return: At the University of Texas at Arlington, he created a scholarship fund, demonstrating his commitment to helping future generations of students from similar backgrounds access education and opportunities in technology.
5. Entrepreneurial Career Journey
A. Early Career & First Startups (2004-2011)
John Imah’s entrepreneurial journey began remarkably early. By age 16, he had already founded and sold two companies—a mobile game development business and one providing solutions for 3D professionals.
SYNC-CONCEPTS – His first venture was a mobile game development company that showcased his coding abilities and understanding of the emerging mobile gaming market.
SRSS-Rendering LLC – His second startup focused on providing rendering solutions for 3D professionals, demonstrating his technical depth and ability to identify niche market needs.
Both companies achieved successful exits through private acquisitions before Imah graduated from college, establishing his credibility as a young entrepreneur who could build, scale, and exit businesses.
Groomed App – Imah also founded Groomed, an on-demand barber service app described as “the Uber for barbers,” which connected customers with mobile barber services.
B. Corporate Career at Tech Giants (2012-2022)
After his early startup successes, Imah joined several of the world’s most influential technology companies:
Take-Two Interactive (2012-2014) – At the makers of 2K games, Imah created the 2K production room, which led to the development of 2K TV, an innovative in-game show for NBA 2K. This pioneering work in gaming and entertainment convergence demonstrated his creative approach to content strategy.
Amazon/Twitch (2014-2016) – As Senior Manager of Strategic Partnerships and Business Development, Imah led a team making Twitch more accessible for brands. The platform, which Amazon had acquired for $1 billion, saw Imah secure partnerships with major brands including Nike, NFL, NBA, Turner Broadcasting, Viacom, Samsung, Coca-Cola, Microsoft, Sony, and Nintendo. He also served as executive producer and creator of “Madden NFL Live,” an exclusive series on Twitch and the NFL network.
Samsung – Imah gained significant visibility as a brand representative, earning the nickname “Samsung John.” He appeared across Samsung’s social media channels, homepage, and marketing campaigns, becoming one of the most recognizable faces representing the brand.
Meta/Facebook (2016-2019) – At Meta, Imah excelled in strategic partnerships and business development, earning a “high impact” accolade for consistently exceeding internal performance metrics. His work focused on enhancing platform experiences and driving user engagement.
Snap Inc. (2019-2022) – As Global Head of Partnerships & Business Development at Snap Inc., he developed disruptive strategies that substantially increased revenue and user engagement. He reported directly to the C-suite and orchestrated global partnerships across augmented reality commerce, gaming, shopping, brands, and entertainment sectors. His strategies transformed these areas, generating millions in revenue and achieving unprecedented user engagement levels.
C. SpreeAI – Building a Unicorn (2023-Present)
The Vision: Imah was constantly seeking ways to combine tech and fashion. “I was always looking for a way to merge tech and fashion. There were tools and products out there. The challenge, it wasn’t necessarily up to par or the standard that I was looking for. And so before the world started talking about AI and ChatGPT, I was already sort of in the mix of exploring AI and machine learning,” Imah explained.
Founding SpreeAI (2023): In 2021, Imah established SpreeAI, a company focused on using AI to revolutionize the fashion industry. The company developed photorealistic virtual try-on technology powered by AI, allowing customers to see how clothing would look on them before purchasing.
Rapid Growth:
- SpreeAI raised close to $60 million by 2024
- In May 2025, a funding round elevated the startup’s valuation to $1.5 billion, achieving unicorn status
- The company has raised over $80 million in total funding
- Led by The Davidson Group, with board members including supermodel Naomi Campbell, Bob Davidson, and Larry Ruvo
Technology Innovation:
- Photorealistic virtual try-on technology so realistic “the naked eye can’t tell it’s virtual”
- 99% accuracy in garment sizing predictions
- AI stylist providing personalized outfit suggestions
- Virtual wardrobe features blending owned items with new recommendations
Academic Partnerships: SpreeAI’s technical capabilities stem from research partnerships with MIT and Carnegie Mellon University, including collaboration with CMU professor and computer vision expert Deva Ramanan.
Fashion Industry Integration:
- In 2024, the company became the CFDA’s exclusive technology partner for digital innovation, with Imah joining as a CFDA member and working with CEO Steven Kolb
- In 2025, SpreeAI participated in the Met Gala, collaborating with designer Sergio Hudson
- Imah attended the Met Gala as the first AI startup CEO ever invited
- Partnerships with luxury fashion labels including Sergio Hudson and Kai Collective
6. Career Timeline Chart
📅 CAREER TIMELINE
2004 ─── Founded first startup (age 16)
│
2006 ─── Sold two companies before age 18
│
2011 ─── Graduated with BS in MIS from UT Arlington
│
2012 ─── Joined Take-Two Interactive (2K Games)
│
2014 ─── Senior Manager at Amazon/Twitch
│
2016 ─── Strategic partnerships role at Meta/Facebook
│
2019 ─── Global Head of Partnerships at Snap Inc.
│
2023 ─── Founded SpreeAI
│
2024 ─── SpreeAI raises ~$60M, becomes CFDA tech partner
│
2025 ─── SpreeAI achieves $1.5B valuation (Unicorn status)
│ First AI CEO invited to Met Gala
│
2026 ─── Leading $1.5B AI fashion unicorn with 40+ team members
7. Business & Company Statistics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Companies Founded | 4+ (SYNC-CONCEPTS, SRSS-Rendering, Groomed, SpreeAI) |
| Current Company Valuation | $1.5 Billion (SpreeAI) |
| Total Funding Raised | $80+ Million |
| Team Size | 40+ international professionals |
| Technology Accuracy | 99% sizing accuracy |
| Market Focus | Fashion Tech / AI Retail / E-Commerce |
| Major Partnerships | CFDA, MIT, Carnegie Mellon, Sergio Hudson, Kai Collective |
| Board Members | Naomi Campbell, Bob Davidson, Larry Ruvo |
8. Entrepreneur Comparison Section
📊 John Imah vs Other Fashion Tech Innovators
| Statistic | John Imah | Fashion Tech Average |
|---|---|---|
| Age of First Exit | 16 years old | 28+ years |
| Company Valuation | $1.5B (2025) | $500M-$800M average |
| Time to Unicorn | ~2 years | 5-7 years average |
| Big Tech Experience | 5+ companies | 1-2 companies |
| Funding Raised | $80M+ | $30-50M average |
| Academic Partnerships | MIT, CMU | Varies |
| Industry Recognition | Met Gala invite, CFDA member | Limited |
Winner: John Imah stands out for his exceptionally early entrepreneurial success, diverse experience across multiple tech giants, rapid path to unicorn status, and unique position bridging Silicon Valley and high fashion. His ability to raise substantial funding and secure prestigious partnerships distinguishes him in the fashion tech space.
9. Leadership & Work Style Analysis
Leadership Philosophy: Imah’s leadership centers on merging cultural intelligence with technical innovation. Imah embodies a new leadership model that combines cultural intelligence, technical expertise, and global ambition.
Decision-Making Style: Data-driven yet creative, Imah balances analytical rigor with innovative thinking. His background in gaming, social media, and brand partnerships informs his approach to building consumer-facing technology.
Risk-Taking Ability: Imah demonstrated exceptional risk tolerance early by choosing entrepreneurship over traditional careers at age 16. His willingness to leave secure executive positions at top tech companies to build SpreeAI shows calculated risk-taking backed by deep industry knowledge.
Innovation Mindset: Imah was exploring AI and machine learning before ChatGPT made the technology mainstream, demonstrating his ability to anticipate technology trends.
Strengths:
- Early mover advantage in identifying market opportunities
- Exceptional relationship-building across tech and fashion industries
- Strong track record of successful exits and value creation
- Ability to secure funding based on reputation and vision
- Cultural fluency spanning tech, gaming, entertainment, and fashion
Weaknesses:
- Limited public information about operational challenges faced
- Relatively young company still proving long-term sustainability
- High growth expectations with unicorn valuation
Expert Perspective: “It’s inspiring to be part of SpreeAI’s transformative journey under John’s visionary leadership,” said Naomi Campbell. “I’ve always believed in pushing boundaries and embracing innovation, and seeing John’s passion and determination firsthand makes me even more excited about the future we’re creating together”.
10. Achievements & Awards
Business & Tech Awards
2025:
- Observer named him to its AI Power 100 for transforming fashion retail through practical AI applications
- AfroTech included him in its Future 50 list, recognizing his blend of cultural insight and technical execution
Global Recognition
Forbes & Fortune:
- Featured in multiple publications for SpreeAI’s unicorn achievement
- Recognized as one of the youngest Black tech CEOs to lead a billion-dollar company
Industry Lists:
- AI Power 100 (Observer, 2025)
- Future 50 (AfroTech, 2025)
Media Features
Featured in premier publications including:
- USA Today
- Fortune
- Variety
- Mashable
- Complex
- The Verge
- Fast Company
- TechCrunch
- Ad Week
- PC Magazine
- BBC News
- Harper’s Bazaar
- Innovation & Tech Today
Historic Milestones
Records Held:
- First AI startup CEO invited to attend the Met Gala (2025)
- One of the youngest Black founders to achieve unicorn status
- The company reached a $1.5 billion valuation, achieving unicorn status as recognized by Romania’s business publication Ziarul Financiar
- Sold two companies before age 16 (among the youngest entrepreneurs to achieve successful exits)
Nickname
Known as the “Michael Jordan of Tech” for his influence across the technology and social media landscape.
11. Net Worth & Earnings
💰 FINANCIAL OVERVIEW
| Year | Estimated Net Worth |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $1-5 Million |
| 2023 | $50-100 Million (SpreeAI founding) |
| 2024 | $200-300 Million (Post major funding) |
| 2025 | $400 Million (Post unicorn valuation) |
Note: Imah is estimated to be worth approximately $400 million, now in his mid-30s.
Income Sources
1. Company Equity (Primary)
- Founder equity stake in SpreeAI (estimated significant percentage)
- Previous exits from SYNC-CONCEPTS and SRSS-Rendering
- Equity from Groomed app
2. CEO Salary & Compensation
- Salary as CEO of SpreeAI
- Performance-based bonuses
- Stock options and incentives
3. Board Memberships & Advisory Roles
- Board seats at multiple startups
- Celebrity tech advisor (Kevin Hart, Martin Lawrence, Aaron McGruder)
- Advisory position at Davidson Academy
- Part-owner and ambassador of Andes Mountain Water
4. Speaking Engagements
- Technology and entrepreneurship conferences
- University speaking engagements
- Corporate events and workshops
Investment Portfolio
Major Investments & Board Seats:
- Multiple startup advisory roles
- Strategic investments in fashion tech and AI companies
- Real estate holdings (details not publicly disclosed)
Wealth Growth Factors
Imah acknowledged his reputation made fundraising easier: “It wasn’t necessarily about the product… I wouldn’t say it was easy for me to raise money, but it wasn’t as difficult as maybe someone that’s starting from scratch”.
His track record of early exits, executive experience at major tech companies, and proven ability to build partnerships positioned him favorably with investors, allowing him to raise substantial capital for SpreeAI.
12. Lifestyle Section
🏠 ASSETS & LIFESTYLE
Properties:
- Primary Residence: Los Angeles, California
- Has also maintained residences in San Francisco, California
- Property values and additional real estate holdings not publicly disclosed
Cars Collection:
- Specific vehicle collection not publicly disclosed
- Known for maintaining a private lifestyle regarding material possessions
Hobbies & Interests:
- Fashion: Deep passion for luxury fashion and design
- Gaming: Lifelong interest in video games and esports
- Photography: Self-described devoted photographer
- Music: Interest in music production and creative arts
- Networking: Member of exclusive clubs including Soho House & Co.
Daily Routine:
- Manages international team of 40+ professionals
- Balances CEO responsibilities with board meetings and strategic planning
- Maintains connections across tech, fashion, and entertainment industries
- Regular speaking engagements and mentorship activities
Work-Life Philosophy: Imah’s life mantra: “Aspire to inspire before you expire” – reflecting his commitment to empowering others to unlock their potential.
Social Scene:
- Member of Soho House & Co.
- Attends high-profile events (Met Gala 2025)
- Maintains relationships with celebrities, designers, and tech leaders
- Active in both Silicon Valley tech circles and fashion industry events
13. Physical Appearance
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | Not publicly disclosed |
| Weight | Not publicly disclosed |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Body Type | Athletic/Fit |
| Style | Contemporary, fashion-forward |
John Imah maintains a polished, professional appearance befitting his dual role in technology and fashion industries. His style reflects his positioning at the intersection of Silicon Valley innovation and high fashion sophistication.
14. Mentors & Influences
Historical Figures: Imah cited Katherine Johnson and Mark Dean as inspirations: “Their stories are not just historical footnotes. They are vibrant reminders of the power of determination, intellect, and courage in the face of adversity”.
Industry Influences:
- Tech leaders from companies where he worked (Samsung, Meta, Amazon, Snap)
- Fashion innovators and designers he partners with
- Nigerian immigrant parents who instilled strong work ethic
Advisory Network:
- Bob Davidson (SpreeAI board member and entrepreneur)
- Larry Ruvo (SpreeAI board member and entrepreneur)
- Naomi Campbell (fashion icon and SpreeAI board member)
Academic Partnerships:
- Professor Deva Ramanan (Carnegie Mellon University – computer vision expert)
- MIT EECS Alliance
- Carnegie Mellon research collaborators
15. Company Ownership & Roles
| Company | Role | Years | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| SYNC-CONCEPTS | Co-Founder | 2004-2006 | Sold/Exited |
| SRSS-Rendering LLC | Co-Founder | 2004-2006 | Sold/Exited |
| Groomed App | Founder | ~2015 | Founded |
| SpreeAI | Founder & CEO | 2023-Present | Active (Unicorn) |
| Andes Mountain Water | Part-Owner/Ambassador | Current | Active |
| Multiple Startups | Board Member/Advisor | Current | Advisory |
Advisory & Board Roles:
- Davidson Academy (Strategic Advisor)
- Various tech startups (Board member and advisor)
- Celebrity tech advisor to Kevin Hart, Martin Lawrence, Aaron McGruder
16. Controversies & Challenges
John Imah has maintained a largely controversy-free public profile throughout his career. However, he has faced and overcome significant challenges:
Early Career Challenges:
- Going against family expectations to pursue tech over traditional careers (medicine, law)
- Growing up in poverty and experiencing the struggles of being a first-generation immigrant
- Building credibility as a young Black entrepreneur in a predominantly white tech industry
Business Challenges:
- Convincing fashion industry stakeholders to embrace AI technology, as fashion has traditionally been driven by human creativity and the introduction of AI met with skepticism
- Demonstrating tangible benefits like increased efficiency, cost savings, and enhanced creativity helped overcome skeptics
- Managing high expectations with SpreeAI’s $1.5B valuation
- Scaling a startup rapidly while maintaining product quality and accuracy
Industry Representation: “Given the statistics on African American representation in the tech industry, how do you see your role as a changing face within this landscape?” Imah has spoken openly about being one of few Black executives and founders in tech leadership positions.
How Challenges Were Handled:
- Used his track record and reputation to build investor confidence
- Demonstrated technology capabilities through partnerships and pilot programs
- Built diverse team and maintained focus on inclusive representation
- Leveraged corporate experience and networking to navigate challenges
Lessons Learned:
- Importance of building credibility through proven track record
- Value of perseverance when facing skepticism about new technology
- Significance of representation and inspiring underrepresented communities
- Balance between innovation and practical business applications
17. Charity & Philanthropy
Education Initiatives:
- Established a scholarship fund at the University of Texas at Arlington
- Regularly speaks to underrepresented students at institutions including Stanford
- Strategic advisor to Davidson Academy (school for profoundly gifted students)
International Support: Through the Imperial Family Foundation, which hosts scholarship exams in Nigeria, he supports high-performing students seeking pathways into tech and innovation.
Diversity in Tech:
- Advocates for increased representation of people of color in technology
- Mentors aspiring entrepreneurs from underrepresented backgrounds
- Uses platform to inspire African American community in tech
Youth Empowerment:
- Active in youth mentorship programs
- Speaks at universities and educational institutions
- Supports community development initiatives
Philosophy: “For Imah, giving back is non-negotiable”, reflecting his commitment to using success to create opportunities for others.
Message to Aspiring Entrepreneurs: “As we celebrate Black History Month, my heart is full of hope and encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds”, demonstrating his dedication to inspiring the next generation.
18. Personal Interests
| Category | Favorites |
|---|---|
| Food | Not publicly disclosed |
| Movie | Not publicly disclosed |
| Book | Not publicly disclosed |
| Travel Destination | Global traveler (LA, SF, Nigeria) |
| Technology | AI, Machine Learning, AR/VR |
| Sport | Not publicly disclosed |
| Fashion Brands | Luxury fashion, contemporary designers |
| Gaming | Video games, esports |
| Music | Various (interested in music production) |
| Art | Photography, visual arts |
Primary Passions:
- Technology & Innovation: Deep interest in AI, machine learning, and emerging tech
- Fashion & Luxury: Genuine passion for high fashion and design
- Gaming: Lifelong gamer with professional experience in gaming industry
- Photography: Self-described devoted photographer
- Mentorship: Committed to helping others succeed
19. Social Media Presence
| Platform | Handle | Estimated Followers |
|---|---|---|
| Contact via SpreeAI | Not publicly disclosed | |
| Twitter/X | @johnimah | Active presence |
| linkedin.com/in/johnimah | 500+ connections | |
| YouTube | Not primary platform | – |
Online Presence:
- Active on professional networking platforms
- Regular features in tech and fashion media
- Company website: spreeai.com
- Contact: hello@spreeai.com
Social Media Style:
- Professional and aspirational content
- Focus on technology innovation and fashion
- Shares company milestones and partnerships
- Advocates for diversity in tech
- Known for creating the hashtag #cmonbruh
20. Recent News & Updates (2025-2026)
2025 Major Milestones:
May 2025:
- SpreeAI achieved $1.5 billion valuation after funding round led by The Davidson Group
- Announced partnerships with Sergio Hudson and Kai Collective
- Imah attended Met Gala as first AI startup CEO invited, coinciding with theme “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style”
August 2025:
- Observer named him to AI Power 100
- AfroTech included him in Future 50 list
- Continued expansion of SpreeAI’s retail partnerships
2026 Outlook:
- Expanding SpreeAI’s product features (AI stylist, virtual wardrobe)
- Growing team and international operations
- Pursuing additional luxury brand partnerships
- Continued collaboration with MIT and Carnegie Mellon on AI research
Recent Product Developments:
- Enhanced photorealistic try-on technology
- AI stylist feature offering personalized recommendations
- Virtual wardrobe combining owned items with new suggestions
- Partnership integrations with luxury fashion brands
Future Plans:
- Scale SpreeAI’s technology across more retail brands
- International market expansion
- Continued investment in AI and machine learning research
- Further academic collaborations and innovation
21. Lesser-Known Facts
- Child Prodigy: John took apart his first computer at age 7, revealing his natural talent for understanding technology.
- Teenage Tycoon: He sold two companies before age 16, making him one of the youngest entrepreneurs to achieve successful business exits.
- Nickname Origin: Known as the “Michael Jordan of Tech” for his dominant influence across technology and social media platforms.
- Samsung Star: As “Samsung John,” he was featured on Samsung’s homepage and across their marketing campaigns, becoming a recognizable brand ambassador.
- Gaming Creator: Executive producer of “Madden NFL Live,” an exclusive series bridging gaming and traditional sports media on Twitch.
- Hashtag Creator: Credited with popularizing the hashtag #cmonbruh on social media platforms.
- Met Gala Pioneer: First AI startup CEO ever invited to the prestigious Met Gala, attending the 2025 event.
- CFDA Member: One of the few tech executives to become a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America.
- Celebrity Advisor: Serves as tech advisor to A-list celebrities including Kevin Hart, Martin Lawrence, and The Boondocks creator Aaron McGruder.
- Water Business: Part-owner and ambassador of Andes Mountain Water, sourced from pristine Andes Mountain terrain.
- Academic Benefactor: Created scholarship fund at his alma mater (UT Arlington) and supports Nigerian students through Imperial Family Foundation.
- Fashion Tech First: Leading one of the first unicorn companies specifically focused on AI-powered fashion retail technology.
- Board Diversity: Has supermodel Naomi Campbell on his company’s board, bridging tech and high fashion in unprecedented ways.
- Nigerian Roots: Maintains strong connection to Nigerian heritage and supports Nigerian students pursuing tech careers.
- Photography Passion: Devoted photographer who brings creative eye to both personal interests and business ventures.
22. FAQs
Who is John Imah?
John Imah is a Nigerian-American tech entrepreneur and CEO of SpreeAI, a $1.5 billion AI fashion unicorn. He sold two companies before age 16 and held executive roles at Samsung, Amazon, Meta, and Snap Inc. before founding SpreeAI in 2023.
What is John Imah’s net worth in 2025?
John Imah’s estimated net worth in 2025 is approximately $400 million, primarily from his founder equity in SpreeAI (valued at $1.5 billion), previous startup exits, executive compensation from major tech companies, and strategic investments.
How did John Imah start his first company?
John Imah founded his first startup at age 16—SYNC-CONCEPTS, a mobile game development company. Using self-taught coding skills developed since age 7, he built and successfully exited this company along with SRSS-Rendering LLC before graduating high school.
Is John Imah married?
John Imah keeps his personal life private. Information about his marital status, spouse, or children is not publicly disclosed, as he maintains focus on his professional achievements and business ventures.
What companies does John Imah own?
John Imah is founder and CEO of SpreeAI ($1.5B valuation), part-owner of Andes Mountain Water, and serves on multiple company boards. He previously founded and exited SYNC-CONCEPTS, SRSS-Rendering LLC, and Groomed app. He also advises various startups and celebrities.
What is SpreeAI?
SpreeAI is an AI-powered fashion technology company founded by John Imah in 2023. It provides photorealistic virtual try-on technology with 99% sizing accuracy, allowing shoppers to see how clothes look before purchasing. The company achieved unicorn status in 2025 with a $1.5 billion valuation.
Which companies did John Imah work for?
John Imah held executive positions at Take-Two Interactive (2K Games), Amazon/Twitch, Samsung, Meta/Facebook, and Snap Inc., where he served as Global Head of Partnerships & Business Development. He reported directly to C-suite executives and secured partnerships with major brands.
What makes John Imah unique in tech?
John Imah is notable for selling two companies before age 16, achieving unicorn status with SpreeAI in just 2 years, being the first AI CEO invited to the Met Gala, and serving as one of the youngest Black tech CEOs to lead a billion-dollar company.
23. Conclusion
John Imah’s journey from a curious seven-year-old dismantling computers in Dallas to leading a $1.5 billion AI fashion unicorn exemplifies modern entrepreneurship at its finest. His path defied traditional expectations, beginning with successful exits before age 16 and evolving through strategic roles at tech giants to founding one of the most innovative companies bridging technology and fashion.
SpreeAI’s rapid ascent to unicorn status validates Imah’s vision that AI could transform the retail experience. His company’s photorealistic virtual try-on technology with 99% accuracy represents more than technical achievement—it’s a practical solution addressing real consumer pain points while reducing returns and environmental waste.
Beyond business metrics, Imah’s impact extends to representation and inspiration. As one of the few Black tech CEOs leading a billion-dollar company, his success challenges industry norms and opens doors for underrepresented entrepreneurs. His commitment to mentorship, scholarships, and speaking engagements demonstrates that for him, success means creating pathways for others.
At 37, Imah stands at the intersection of multiple revolutions: artificial intelligence, fashion technology, and diverse tech leadership. His board includes supermodel Naomi Campbell, his technology partners include MIT and Carnegie Mellon, and his invitation to the Met Gala symbolizes his unique position bridging Silicon Valley innovation with high fashion creativity.
The coming years promise continued innovation as SpreeAI scales globally, expands its AI capabilities, and transforms how millions shop online. John Imah’s legacy is still being written, but his influence on fashion technology, entrepreneurship, and representation in tech is already undeniable.
His life mantra remains clear: “Aspire to inspire before you expire.”
Share this inspiring story of John Imah’s rise from teenage entrepreneur to billion-dollar CEO. Follow SpreeAI’s journey and explore how AI is transforming fashion retail. Have questions or insights about John Imah’s entrepreneurial journey? Leave a comment below!
