16yo AI Whiz Hires Dad

A 16-year-old Class 12 student from Kerala, Raul John Aju, has made headlines by hiring his father, Aju Joseph, with a salary of ₹2 lakh per month. Raul is the founder of an AI startup and has achieved this feat at a very young age.

Raul's father, Aju Joseph, has experience working at top companies such as Amazon, Adobe, Wipro, and IBM. This unusual power dynamic is a result of Raul's passion for AI, which he started learning at the age of 9. By the time he was 12, he had built MeBot for a school science project, which would later become a significant part of his startup.

Raul's startup and ThinkCraft Academy have reached nearly five lakh learners worldwide, with his AI projects spanning education, practical tools, and technology-focused initiatives. His work has gained international recognition, and he recently spoke at the 2026 India AI Impact Summit, a United Nations-linked session, on AI and children's safety.

## Why it matters Raul's story is not just about his achievements as a young entrepreneur but also about the importance of embracing AI without losing creativity, empathy, curiosity, and individuality. His message is significant, especially for young people who are growing up in a world where technology is increasingly dominant. As Raul continues to make a name for himself in the AI world, his story serves as an inspiration to many, showing that with dedication and hard work, anything is possible, regardless of age.

Raul's journey is a testament to the fact that innovation and entrepreneurship can start at any age. His ability to balance his studies with his passion for AI is a remarkable feat, and his achievements are a reminder that the future of technology is in the hands of the next generation.