Success Stories

Story of

Mohammad Al-Rifai

Product
Kwili
Country
Kuwait
Rank
3rd Place Winner

About the Project

It’s no surprise that inventions like the microwave and the dishwasher were welcomed with open arms. Ironing clothes however is still a thorn in the side for many. In 2011, at only 20 years old, Mohammad hit it on the mark with Kwili, a six foot tall steam-ironing robot with which he won 3rd place. Clothes can be suspended vertically from a standalone table, and the robot does all the work for the user. With a steamer and position sensors, Kwili makes you look fresh and sharp any day of the week in an instant.  

Mohammad secured a world-wide patent for his innovation in both the U.S. and the EU. Since the show, he has worked on enhancing and adding more features to the invention. Those piles of clothes will finally take care of themselves. 

Beyond Stars of Science

Mohammad graduated from Kuwait University in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in the same field. In 2015, he started his first company called IdeaLink, and acts as the founder and CEO. The online service caters to serve students, entrepreneurs, and innovators with 3D printing and laser cutting, in addition to robotics lessons.

“The team developed, and so did our imaginations,” Mohammad said. “We now have our first educational robot; a ‘Made in Kuwait’ product called IdeaBot.” The product is made up of unassembled parts which the customer has to put together using an accompanying guide book. The process helps users build a foundation in understanding electrical engineering, coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence.

“I’ve been working hard to launch a new company for the past two years, and we’re finally close!” Mohammad enthused. His new project is the Kuwait Innovation Center (KIC). The center specializes in hardware incubation and developing different innovations for clients of diverse backgrounds. “My main goal is to tie ourselves into the ecosystem that invests in innovation and supports critical minds. Arabs can and should lead the world by example.” 

Personal Reflection

Describing his time at SOS as a gateway that led to his current successes, Mohammad said: “I was 20 years old when I joined the show. I was still exploring my interests and SOS helped me believe my work can have an impact. Now I share those valuable experiences with my community and continue to educate myself and others.”

He goes on to express his hope for the future, “I think the Arab world has to take a step towards technological independence. We have the capabilities, and we have the resources. That’s why Stars of Science is revolutionary, and I hope it carries on leading the way.”

Follow Mohammad

IdeaLink Website: https://idealink.net/

Media Links

http://alwatan.kuwait.tt/articledetails.aspx?id=174395&yearquarter=20121

http://www.alraimedia.com/Home/Details?Id=fc75355a-6987-44b6-a590-3e636913bcba