As digital communication has taken over, many of us feel more isolated and disconnected, even though we’re more “connected” than ever. Social networks, originally designed to bring people together, often leave us with only a surface-level connection, making us long for more genuine, face-to-face interactions. Twyne steps in as a solution, combining technology with the human need for real connection, offering a way to truly connect with others in a more meaningful way.
Twyne is an innovative platform designed to combat social isolation by fostering real-life, local interactions. It connects users with nearby individuals, encouraging spontaneous, meaningful relationships. Through small group virtual meetups that mimic casual, social hangouts, Twyne offers a comfortable way to ease into new connections. Users can choose between regular events or spontaneous interactions, with the option to meet in person if a connection is made. By strengthening community ties and promoting genuine relationships, Twyne is addressing loneliness and enhancing local social networks.
The inspiration for Twyne stems from the vision of its founder, Thorsten Hoins. Originally motivated by the desire to reduce urban traffic through shared rides, Thorsten’s concept quickly evolved into something more profound. Witnessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on social interactions, Thorsten saw an opportunity to address the growing issue of social isolation. The pandemic highlighted the importance of local, platonic connections. Thorsten’s vision for Twyne shifted toward creating a platform that truly brings people who live in the same area closer together.
Thorsten’s background in communications, startup consulting, brand building, and community dynamics uniquely positioned him to bring this vision to life. His extensive experience in understanding how communities form and thrive informed the development of Twyne as a platform designed to foster connections beyond mere convenience, creating meaningful, lasting relationships.
To bring Twyne to fruition, Thorsten assembled a seasoned founding team that shares his passion for community building and innovation. With a background in finance and operations, his cofounder, Sue Chaplin, brings a wealth of experience from her time as SVP Finance at a world-leading sports and live entertainment company, where she honed her skills in managing large-scale operations and financial planning. Her expertise ensures that the platform runs smoothly and efficiently, allowing the company to scale and meet the demands of a growing user base.
Product leader John Deyto’s extensive experience in product development is rooted in his team leadership within industry giants like LinkedIn, Electronic Arts, and Yahoo. His deep understanding of user experience and product design drives Twyne’s mission to create a platform that is not only functional but also engaging and user-friendly. John’s leadership ensures that Twyne continues to innovate and evolve, staying ahead of the curve in the competitive tech landscape.
With over 20 years of experience in the tech industry, Keith Swallow is the backbone of Twyne’s technical infrastructure. His previous success at Sellbrite, which he helped sell to GoDaddy and then integrated into the larger company, underscores his ability to scale technology solutions effectively. Keith’s technical expertise ensures that Twyne’s platform is robust, reliable, and capable of handling the complexities of social networking.
Looking ahead, the Twyne team is committed to driving the platform’s growth with a relentless focus on community building and innovative solutions for local connections. As Twyne continues to expand, the team’s expertise will be crucial in ensuring that the platform not only grows in user base but also in its ability to create meaningful, lasting connections. The mission is clear: to complete the vision of connecting people, reducing isolation, and making every interaction an opportunity to foster a stronger, more connected community.
