Former Canterbury students have been named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2025 list, earning recognition for their leadership and innovation across the fields of social impact, artificial intelligence, and sustainable manufacturing.

Each year, Forbes’ prestigious 30 Under 30 Asia list recognises 300 of the region’s most promising young leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers.

The 2025 list, which features University of Canterbury alumni, was compiled through a rigorous, multi-phase selection process involving nominations, research, and independent judging.

Keegan Jones, founder of The Free Legal Clinics Project, was recognised in the Social Impact category.

His initiative provides free legal assistance to underserved and vulnerable communities, with a strong focus on improving access for Māori. The project was established to address the systemic barriers many people face when trying to access basic civic and legal services in New Zealand.

William Murrell and Ben Scales, co-founders of KiwiFibre, were honoured in the Industry, Manufacturing & Energy category. The Christchurch-based startup is developing sustainable technologies aimed at replacing traditional synthetic fibres with environmentally friendly alternatives, including the use of native harakeke (flax) fibre for industrial applications.

In the Artificial Intelligence category, Luke Campbell and Lucy Turner, co-founders of VXT, were recognised for their AI-driven communication platform. Founded in 2018, VXT helps businesses streamline voicemail and phone call workflows using artificial intelligence, improving operational efficiency for a wide range of industries.

Jonathan Ring, co-founder of Zincovery, was also recognised in the Industry, Manufacturing & Energy category. Zincovery has developed a low-emissions method for recycling zinc from industrial waste using hydrogen-based technology. The innovation significantly reduces energy use and environmental impact compared to traditional smelting.