We’re proud to welcome Mert Erbil, Senior Product Owner at Mobiquity (EMEA & APAC), as a product advisor to After5: the IRL friendship platform for ambitious women.
With over 15 years of experience leading digital product teams across industries — from entertainment and dating to ecommerce and AI — Mert brings a deep understanding of how to build products that are not only functional, but meaningful. His work spans B2C platforms, agile transformations, and emotionally resonant digital experiences, all grounded in one belief: tech should serve people — not the other way around.
We asked Mert five questions about what drew him to After5, why user trust is essential in product development, and how technology can enable deeper, real-world connection.
1. What made you excited to come on board as an advisor to After5?
“After5 is the kind of project that makes you want to be a part of it. It’s thoughtful, people-first, and driven by the strong focus and dedication of two inspiring cofounders, Sıla and Nina.”
“This isn’t just about building another platform. It’s about helping people enjoy life more through meaningful connections, and I’m proud to support that.”
Mert was immediately drawn to After5’s mission — and the clarity of its purpose. With a long career in building digital products, he sees a rare intentionality in how After5 approaches connection.
2. Why do you think connection-focused platforms matter in today’s world?
“In our fast, busy and noisy world, real connection is something we all need. Platforms that focus on human connection can bring joy and make people feel more grounded and supported.”
In an age of always-on communication, Mert believes there’s growing demand for tools that foster something slower, deeper, and more nourishing — especially in our social lives.
3. What makes After5 different from other platforms in this space?
“After5 stands out for its carefully curated, real-life experiences designed for the community. It’s not just about meeting people. It’s about feeling safe, seen, and part of something thoughtful and intentional.”
He sees After5 not as another social app — but as a space built around trust, quality, and shared values. One where women feel not just connected, but understood.
4. You’ve worked across many B2C products. What have those experiences taught you?
“I’ve owned and led many digital products, including B2C platforms with various user bases and goals. I’ve experienced both the potential and the challenges of building products that aim to create emotional value and trust.”
“The most powerful products are always the ones that truly respect the users and resonate with their needs. That’s why I’m excited to be an early part of After5.”
For Mert, successful platforms don’t just deliver features — they deliver a feeling. And the ones that last are the ones that stay close to what users actually need in their lives.
5. What do you hope to help After5 achieve?
“By staying focused on real-life, high-quality, and pleasure-driven experiences, After5 has the potential to become a trusted space for even more women.”
“It can help build honest, warm, and empowering connections — the kind that truly last.”
Looking ahead, Mert is focused on helping the team build a product that scales — without losing what makes it special: human energy, intention, and connection that feels real.
