Be Prepared for Your Future: Henry’s Journey from Vietnam to Innovation in New Zealand
When Henry Nguyen first spotted a poster about studying in New Zealand on a school wall in Dalat, Vietnam, he had no idea it would lead him to a life of innovation, entrepreneurship, and global opportunity.
I did a lot of research into New Zealand’s education and culture, and career opportunities after graduation. I looked for feedback from other students and decided it was somewhere I wanted to go.
Driven by a desire to gain a world-class education and real-world experience, Henry chose New Zealand—a country he knew little about at the time. But after researching its education system, culture, and career prospects, he was convinced it was the right place to prepare for his future.
The reason I wanted to go overseas to study was to gain a career qualification and experience of another culture and then be able to utilise my skills. I wanted to work on innovative products after studying engineering and there is not the same opportunity for that in Vietnam.
A Practical Education That Inspires Innovation
In 2015, Henry arrived in Christchurch to study mechanical engineering at Ara Institute of Canterbury. What he found was a learning environment that encouraged creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on experience.
The learning style was relaxed, and I was impressed that the teachers were open to new ideas, listened to feedback from students, and were very supportive.
Henry’s final-year project—a tidal turbine designed to generate electricity—earned him the title of Student Engineer of the Year from Engineering New Zealand in 2018.
You learned critical thinking skills, and innovation was welcomed. At Ara, there is less focus on research on more on practical training and knowledge, which is what I was looking for.
Turning Ideas into Impact
After graduation, Henry worked in the robotics industry before launching his own start-up, Vanteks, focused on preventive health technologies. His first product, Senpro 1, is a smart device that helps office workers maintain good posture and take regular breaks—an innovation born from his own experience at a desk job.
I have known since I was young that I wanted to run my own business, but I needed the right environment, and New Zealand has provided that for me. It was a key part of my decision in wanting to study overseas.
With backing from local business incubators like Te Ōhaka, Ministry of Awesome, and Callaghan Innovation, Henry went on to trial his product in Christchurch businesses.
A Future Built on Confidence and Community
Henry’s journey has been about more than just academic success. It’s been a personal transformation.
Coming to New Zealand was the “best decision”, Henry says.
I’m a different person now. I’m more confident and not afraid to express my ideas, and I have built productive working relationships.
Now reunited with his wife in New Zealand, Henry is focused on building a secure future and giving back to the community that helped him grow. He hopes to one day mentor other aspiring entrepreneurs and create jobs through his business.
Why Choose New Zealand?
Henry’s story is a powerful example of how a New Zealand education can prepare you for a successful, innovative future.
New Zealand is one of the best places to study, especially if you are innovative and outgoing. You will be judged on your skills and talents, and if you know what you want to do with your career, you will go far.
Whether you choose a university or a practical training institute like Ara, New Zealand offers a supportive, forward-thinking environment where your talents can thrive.
Be prepared for your future, by equipping yourself with a New Zealand education.
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