What if staying active felt less like a daily obligation and more like an exciting game? That’s the idea behind GymaGotchi, an innovative student project developed within TSI business incubator iDEAHUB, where technology, creativity, and healthy living come together.
The project aims to create a mobile application that combines physical activity, social interaction, and gamification to make developing healthy habits more engaging and enjoyable. At the heart of GymaGotchi is a simple but creative concept: a digital pet that motivates users to stay active. GymaGotchi is designed for young adults aged 20 – 45 and anyone looking to maintain an active lifestyle, build healthy habits, and stay motivated. By encouraging movement, participation in activities, and social interaction, the application aims to turn everyday activities into a rewarding experience.
Bringing this idea to life is a team of passionate TSI students who are combining their creativity, knowledge, and skills to turn an innovative concept into a real-world digital solution. Meet them – Alisa Donskaja, 2nd year student of the bachelor’s programme Robotics, Nikoleta Kupšīte, 3rd year student of the bachelor’s programme Business and Management, Anna Manakova and Daniela Petrosjana, 2nd year students of the double degree master’s programme in IT Project Management; as well as Vadims Jegorovs, 2nd year Master’s student in Smart Electronic Systems and Robotics.
From a Friendly Conversation to a Real Startup Idea
Sometimes, great ideas begin with a simple conversation. For GymaGotchi, it all started with a friendly discussion and brainstorming session, where students exchanged ideas and explored ways to combine technology with healthier lifestyles.
For Alisa Donskaja, a 2nd year bachelor’s student, joining GymaGotchi was an opportunity to gain practical experience, explore new ideas, and challenge herself. Her experience highlights one of the biggest challenges student innovators face: balancing academic studies, work, and multiple projects at the same time.
“It’s hard to combine work, studies, and several projects at the very same time. I don’t think I’ve solved this problem yet, but I’m working on it,” Alisa admits.
For Alisa, one of the most impressive aspects of the journey has been seeing how her teammates handle pressure and contribute their knowledge, even when their experience and technical skills differ. At the same time, the experience has introduced her to different aspects of developing a startup, including programming, business, and marketing.
Overcoming Challenges and Growing Together
Anna Manakova, 2nd year master’s student, shares that from her side one of the team’s challenges has been distributing responsibilities effectively and ensuring everyone can contribute to the development process. Despite these challenges, the students have already experienced rewarding moments.
For Anna, successfully presenting the team’s interim report was an important milestone that demonstrated their progress and hard work. Reflecting on her journey, she describes that participating in TSI iDEAHUB has been an opportunity to experience how a real software development project is managed, from organising responsibilities to working towards shared goals. In three words she says: “Success, Challenge, Encouragement.”
Her advice to other students considering joining TSI iDEAHUB is simple: “The most important thing is to be creative and not to be afraid to express it,” shares Anna Manakova.
Alisa’s advice to future iDEAHUB participants is both practical and encouraging: “Make sure you have enough energy and time for the project, but don’t be afraid to start it,” says Alisa Donskaja.
More Than Just an App
While GymaGotchi aims to make physical activity more engaging, the project is also giving its creators something equally valuable – real-world experience in developing a digital product and working as a team.
Through TSI iDEAHUB, students have the opportunity to go beyond classroom learning, explore entrepreneurship, develop technical and business skills, and understand the challenges of bringing an innovative idea to life.
For Anna and Alisa, the journey has already been filled with new knowledge, responsibilities, teamwork, and personal growth. GymaGotchi demonstrates how a simple idea, combined with creativity, collaboration, and determination, can become the starting point for something much bigger.
And for students who are considering joining TSI iDEAHUB, the team’s message is clear: Be creative, believe in your ideas, and don’t be afraid to say it out loud!
The project “Transport and Telecommunication Institute (TSI) Innovation Grants for Students – iDEAHUB” is implemented with the financial support of the European Union under Project No. 1.1.1.7/1/25/A/004.
