RWU graduate Tom Segbers - startup entrepreneur between AI and the gaming scene

Weingarten - Tom Segbers studied Applied Computer Science at RWU. In 2020, his internship semester took him to a start-up in Munich, where the Ehingen native founded his own company, LAYZR GmbH, together with two colleagues a year later.

The team focused on creating so-called loyalty platforms for digital content, for example for streamers on Twitch. The new company had to set up its own website and associated platforms as quickly as possible. One of Tom Segbers' many areas of responsibility: "I was mainly responsible for the technical side of our company. I was able to put the content of my studies into practice there."

What used to be trading cards and stickers from footballers and Disney films is now - predominantly - digital content from streamers and influencers. The platforms designed by LAYZR enabled fans to obtain or purchase both digital and physical merch products. The company not only focused on the German livestream scene, but also worked with creators from Brazil, Portugal and the UK, among others. In addition to the Twitch streaming platform, the focus was also on Instagram and YouTube.

The current takeover by Yodel may come as a surprise at first. However, it is a step forward for both sides: Jodel was previously a purely text-based social media platform. Thanks to LAZYR's tools, users will in future be able to create individual avatars on the platform that are recognizable, while the people behind them remain anonymous. An added value that combines individuality and anonymity and enhances Yodel accordingly.

For Tom Segbers, however, it's now back to the roots. "The subject of robotics was the reason why I chose RWU back then. The Robo-Lab was my absolute highlight during my studies." He is building on this with his new company Hammer Robotics, with which he wants to bring humanoid robots onto the market, initially in the field of logistics. "Fortunately, my circle of RWU friends has remained intact to this day and who knows, maybe more RWU students will find their way to us after graduation," says the young entrepreneur.

Text: Alec Weber

Photos: Studio Monbijou