Ami Yoshimura’s journey with Verci is a testament to the power of starting small to build something impactful. Growing up between New York and Tokyo, immersed in music and soccer, Ami always sought meaningful connections. Despite societal pressures to follow conventional paths, Ami found a true calling in creating spaces where people could come together and thrive outside traditional frameworks.

At just 19, Ami co-organized LA Tech Week, transforming simple happy hours into significant event series. This experience solidified a belief in the power of community and grassroots initiatives.

The idea for Verci began simply: a group chat for dropouts and new grads to connect, share ideas, and support each other. This modest beginning evolved into events, pop-ups, and eventually a physical space in New York’s Soho.

The group chat was the cornerstone. It gathered like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Listening to the community's needs allowed Verci to expand iteratively, being responsive and adaptive rather than following a grand plan.

Transitioning from online interactions to in-person events like happy hours, workshops, and pop-ups deepened connections. The physical space now serves as a hub, reinforcing the community's fabric.

A pivotal moment was an Instagram campaign that shared Verci’s stories and ethos, leading to a viral moment and thousands of new connections. This highlighted the importance of storytelling in community building.

Verci’s onboarding process now emphasizes cohort-based groups and one-on-one introductions, ensuring every new member feels welcomed and integrated. This personal touch, though labor-intensive, is essential for building a strong, cohesive community.

Ami’s advice for other community builders is simple: start small and listen to your members. A group chat is a powerful tool to gather a core group, understand their needs, and build from there. Iterate and adapt based on feedback, and always prioritize personal connections and thoughtful onboarding.

Building a community is hard work, but incredibly rewarding. The relationships and projects that have emerged from Verci are a testament to the power of a well-crafted community. From people finding the courage to start their ventures to meeting significant others, these moments are the true measure of success.

Ami Yoshimura is the founder of Verci, where he puts together events and co-living houses for full-time founders and creators. Among his extensive background in growth and community, Ami co-created LA Tech Week.