2 July, 2025
We created a list of our 'Inspired One Hundred' alumni working in the deep tech sector in Aotearoa New Zealand in 2024, in many cases, working on new technology for climate mitigation and decarbonisation. These entrepreneurial alumni create economic value for New Zealand and they do so with purpose: we share with you the motivation for the work that they do, in their own words.
We thank them all for participating in this project.
I'm motivated by navigating the intricate intersection of innovative biomedical technology and regulatory compliance, ensuring that Aroa Biosurgery's groundbreaking advancements reach patients safely and swiftly.
Isabel Monteiro
I joined a deep tech company as they are the tip of the spear for answering the challenge of global warming and sustainable future.
Maxime (Jean Laurent) Savoie
I am passionate about the deep tech sector because it allows me to contribute to groundbreaking innovations that can transform industries and improve lives. And what I love most about my work is as a Scientist, I love to be free.
Anindita Sen
I'm passionate about commercializing great technologies that decarbonising industry to fight climate change, being part of a dedicated team to take an idea and create a profitable, sustainable business. It is an exciting time to be working in clean technology in New Zealand.
Leathan Landon-Lane
I love working in deeptech in NZ because there's such an amazing community of talented scientists and engineers all working on problems that have a huge impact on society. Taking research out of the lab and into the real world is tough and not without risk, but it’s these innovations that can change the way we live our lives.
Eldon Tate
Working in a deep-tech company is like exploring the frontier of innovation - every challenge is an opportunity to push the boundaries of what's possible, and I thrive on turning complex problems into groundbreaking solutions.
Mohinder Naiya
Working in the deep tech sector is like being at the forefront of a revolutionary frontier, where every breakthrough pushes boundaries and produces a more sustainable future. It's an unwavering search for answers that combines state-of-the-art technology with a strong desire to improve the world.
Olivia Ogilvie
I am passionate about developing impactful solutions to improve the health and well-being of people globally.
Vishal Kumar
I am driven primarily by two things; the need to make new and useful things, and the strong desire to leave the world a better place than how I found it.
Thomas Kerr Philips
New Zealand deep tech is effectively translating technology into real-world solutions and elevating Kiwi scientists and engineers to global innovators.
Emma Wrigglesworth
My work as a Lead Scientist at Kimer Med has allowed me to delve into the development of cutting-edge broad-spectrum antivirals.
Rishi Pandey
We only have one earth and it is crucial to look after it and its environment; clean technology is vital for all of our futures.
Lily Clague
My passion for science and problem solving comes from my family and teachers encouraging questioning throughout my life. I've always enjoyed things that are logical or that can be figured out with some well placed thinking. My love for physics in particular came from the most wonderful physics teacher in college who was passionate about both the subject and about teaching.
Felicia Ullstad
Science is not just a pursuit of knowledge, but a journey fuelled by curiosity and wonder. My love for science is rooted in my understanding that advancements in research and development can enhance the world in which we live.
Aljo Anand