About us
Technologists who chose this problem.
We are AI and software people. We know technology and believe in it, and our motivation is human.
Why AUTIVA
Between the first question and a smoother path.
For parents worried about their child, and for adults who have asked themselves for years, the gap between the first question and the first answer is often long and confusing.
Our first step is assessment. How a person behaves in everyday life is not the same as what can be seen in a short appointment. AUTIVA connects the two. The decision stays with the specialist.
“Imagine knowing your child needs immediate help – but being told to wait 1 year or more. As one of the thousands of families, this is the reality for us.”
What we believe
Five beliefs.
- 01
Understanding before solutions
We understand people deeply first, then we build technology.
- 02
Beyond stereotypes
Every autistic person and every family is unique. Books and common assumptions don't replace listening to people themselves.
- 03
With users, not only for them
We learn from the autism community — through field observation, research and co-design — and find solutions together.
- 04
Technology in service of people
AI is a tool; people make the decisions.
- 05
Safe, simple, calm
Everything we build should feel this way. It is not a feature; it is a commitment.
Team
The people behind AUTIVA.
Sahar Soleimani
Co-founder & CEO
HCI researcher at the University of Siegen with more than ten years of startup experience. Mother of two autistic children, she knows the long wait for an assessment first-hand.
Arash Banijamali
Co-founder & CTO
More than 21 years of professional experience, over 13 of them as CTO. Leads AUTIVA's technology strategy and product vision.
Mohadeseh Erfani
Co-founder & Lead Software Architect
More than ten years in software engineering. Builds systems with security and data protection designed in from the start.
Ankita Patanker
Head of Product & Research
HCI researcher at the University of Siegen with more than five years in user research and UX design. Leads user research and product experience design.
Our name
What AUTIVA means.
AUT for autism, I for innovation and intelligence, and VA for vitality and life.
Our direction
From understanding to everyday support.
We start with assessment. Our direction: from understanding to support in everyday life and development.
Supported by the Gründungsstipendium NRW through Startpunkt57 at the University of Siegen.