Abdul “Abi” Kayum was more than just a developer — he was a builder of bridges between people and technology. He joined the iVault Collective in 2023 during the earliest stages of our avatar AI project. From day one, he brought not only technical brilliance, but calm focus, humility, and a contagious sense of purpose.
Abi played a key role in launching our first prototypes — AI-powered avatars that could speak with people, understand their needs, and connect them to real help in real time. His work directly shaped the way our platform brings digital leads into meaningful human conversations. It wasn’t just code. It was connection.
What stood out most was how quietly powerful his presence was. He didn’t seek the spotlight, but he was always at the center of progress — solving problems, refining systems, and making the impossible feel manageable.
Abi passed away unexpectedly in 2025, leaving behind his wife and three daughters — and an unfinished mission. In the days that followed, we realized the very technology he helped build could carry his legacy forward. Not only through the platform he helped create, but through his voice, his ideas, and the compassion he encoded into every interaction.
The Abi Project is both a tribute and a continuation — a way to honor the impact he had on us, and to extend that impact to the world.
Abi’s work lives on. So does his spirit.
“When I first met Abi, I was immediately struck by his rare combination of technical mastery and entrepreneurial spirit. Within just a few minutes of talking, it was clear he wasn’t just another developer — he was someone who deeply understood telecom systems, having worked with companies like 8×8 and others in the space. But beyond his engineering expertise, what stood out most was his mindset: he wasn’t interested in clocking in to make someone else money. He wanted to build something of his own. Something that mattered. That’s what made him the perfect partner to bring into iVault. When I shared the vision of what we were trying to create, he didn’t just nod — he expanded it. He added to the roadmap with insight, calm logic, and a belief that we could truly build something innovative. Over the years, even though we only met once in person, we worked together constantly — through chat, Slack, Skype, and calls. The remote setup never slowed us down. We pushed forward on project after project, and many of those ideas became real products that generated value for the company. Abi had an incredible way of thinking through complex problems and offering solutions that not only worked, but improved the original concept. Whether we were brainstorming video-to-call transitions, AI integrations, or smarter ways to engage consumers, he had the rare ability to bring those visions to life — and to do it with calm focus and humility. I remember how often he shared his hopes for the future — not just professionally, but personally. He cared deeply about providing for his family, and he saw iVault as a way to help secure that future. That meant a lot to me, and made our mission even more meaningful. Abi was a major part of iVault’s foundation. His contributions, his energy, and his presence will be deeply missed. The loss is profound. But it brings me some comfort knowing that the very technology he helped build — avatars, intelligent memory, legacy tools — may now help his family remember him, hear him, and feel him close, even in his absence. I’m grateful for everything he gave us. I’m honored to have worked with him. And I hope this memorial brings some light to those he loved most.“
“I first met Abi a few years ago during an online meeting. Over time, through many conversations and collaborative efforts, I came to know him as an exceptionally skilled and dedicated professional. He was someone who took initiative, offered solutions without hesitation, and was always ready to help. His calm presence and thoughtful input made a lasting impression on everyone he worked with. Abi’s sudden passing has been incredibly difficult to process. Just days ago, we were on a call working through a task together, and I had followed up with him afterward. I was waiting for his response—now it feels like that wait will never end. May he rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength and comfort in this difficult time. Abi will be remembered not only for his talent, but for the quiet integrity and kindness he brought to his work and to our team.“
“I had the pleasure of collaborating with Abi on several projects at Ivault. Our last conversation was just a week before his departure. Beyond his valuable contributions to the Avatar production development, Abi was a genuinely kind and humble person. I truly hope he is in a better place.“
“I didn’t get to spend much time with Abi, but in the moments we connected, it was clear he was dedicated and deeply talented. Just a week before his passing, we had a huddle about the V3 Avatar project—his progress was impressive, and the health avatar he was building was nearly complete. I was looking forward to helping bring it to market after he wrapped up his part. I know I would’ve learned a lot from him during that process, but unfortunately, we didn’t get enough time to truly collaborate. His work spoke for itself, and he’ll be missed. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family during this difficult time.”
We’ve contributed as a company and will match all donations from the team.