Ara graduate’s start-up helps the desk-bound

New Zealand is recognised internationally as a country where students from around the world can gain a world-class education, and then move into a range of fields where, in collaboration with colleagues, they can develop ideas and solutions for problems facing the local and global community.

Here in Christchurch, the Ara Institute of Canterbury provides international students with the opportunity to study in a supportive and flexible environment that fosters innovation and creativity.

One example is Henry Nguyen, who came to New Zealand from Vietnam in 2015 to study at Ara. Henry says he was drawn to New Zealand both for the scenery and the reputation of our education sector. 

“New Zealand is a gorgeous country and Kiwis are so friendly. The course at Ara was good, but the people I got to study beside were better – everyone is innovative and helpful. People respect you and want you to grow.”

In 2018, Engineering New Zealand named Henry student engineer of the year. Then, after completing his Bachelor of Engineering Technology, he worked in Christchurch as a mechanical design engineer. It was in this job Henry noticed he spent a lot of time at his desk without moving. 

“I had foot and back pain, and I couldn’t find anything that really helped me.” 

This led to his launch of a start-up called Vanteks in 2021, with his first product being the Senpro 1, a simple device that monitors desk posture, giving alerts when a correction or  rest is needed.

It also fulfilled a lifelong passion for Henry: “I always wanted to be an inventor.” 

Henry developed Senpro 1 in about two weeks, and went straight into testing. The device is now being trialled by ChristchurchNZ (the economic development agency), as well as at EverYellow, MenuAid, The Buzz Club, and the Ministry of Awesome.

“I’m really proud to launch this technology,” Henry says, “and I want to grow the business. I know this can have an impact on people around the world.”

In developing Senpro 1, Henry was able to draw on the creative techniques he developed during his study, and on his connections from Ara. For anyone looking to come to New Zealand to study or start a business, Henry encourages them.

“New Zealand is a great country, and there’s so much support. People are willing to help start-ups, they genuinely care and they want you to succeed. It’s part of the Kiwi culture.”