Tech CEO Faces Backlash Over Unpaid Apprenticeship
Peter Ninovski, the founder of the tech company Brainster, is under fire for a controversial LinkedIn post offering a one-year unpaid apprenticeship. The position, which demands extensive working hours, has sparked outrage online as many criticize it as exploitative. While Ninovski claims the role provides invaluable learning opportunities and mentorship, the terms have raised significant concerns among potential applicants and social media users alike.
Unpaid Opportunity with Extensive Hours
In his LinkedIn announcement, Ninovski proposed a one-year unpaid apprenticeship for graduates, stating that while the role does not offer a salary, it includes a modest monthly stipend of $500. The apprenticeship requires a commitment of 8 to 10 hours a day, five days a week. Ninovski acknowledged that the offer might seem unreasonable but emphasized the unique chance to work closely with him as the CEO of three multi-million dollar companies.
He justified the unpaid nature of the position by sharing a success story from a previous apprentice, suggesting that the experience gained would outweigh the lack of financial compensation. The responsibilities outlined in the post include shadowing Ninovski across his companies and engaging in high-stakes projects, rather than performing menial tasks. The selected candidate would also collaborate on Ninovski’s investments in early-stage companies, gaining hands-on experience in both strategy and execution.
Call for Curiosity and Ownership
Ninovski’s post further detailed the qualities he seeks in an ideal candidate. He is looking for someone who is not only intelligent and hardworking but also possesses a strong sense of ownership and curiosity. The CEO emphasized the need for persistence and preferably some experience in artificial intelligence. He described the apprenticeship as a chance to be part of “the chaos, the problem-solving, and the breakthroughs that define entrepreneurship,” particularly in the rapidly evolving field of AI.
Despite the enticing description, the terms of the apprenticeship have drawn sharp criticism. Many social media users have expressed disbelief that a successful entrepreneur would offer such a position without adequate compensation. Comments have ranged from questioning the ethics of the offer to highlighting the challenges faced by those who cannot afford to work unpaid, even for a prestigious mentorship opportunity.
Viral Reaction and Criticism
Since its publication, Ninovski’s LinkedIn post has gone viral, attracting widespread attention and backlash. Critics have taken to social media to voice their concerns, with some users pointing out the disparity between the company’s financial success and the lack of a living wage for potential apprentices. One commenter remarked, “If you manage three multi-million dollar companies, it’s embarrassing not to be able to scrape some money for this to be a paid opportunity.” Others have echoed similar sentiments, questioning the feasibility of accepting such an offer without adequate financial support.
The conversation surrounding Ninovski’s apprenticeship offer highlights broader issues within the tech industry regarding unpaid internships and the accessibility of opportunities for young professionals. As the debate continues, many are left wondering about the implications of such offers on the future of work and mentorship in the tech sector.
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