2007 alum, Rui Peng, recently popped back into the college and he certainly has been busy since he was last here! 

Reflecting on his high school days, Rui describes himself as a "ratbag" in his early years, admitting his attitude and motivation weren't quite in the right place. But with guidance from legendary Paūranga College teachers Ruth Fullerton, Dean Keswell, and Frank Woodward; Rui turned his mindset around to become a House Leader, as seen front row centre of the Mataī House Leader photo from 2007! 

"Mrs Fullerton was just so extremely supportive, and Mr Keswell and Mr Woodward saw some potential in me and they just kept pushing until I got there. They were really inspiring for me." 

After leaving school, Rui completed a master's degree in architecture. While working on the interior fit-out of an airport, he faced a major ethical and design dilemma: choose beautiful materials that were environmentally damaging or opt for sustainable ones that lacked appeal. 

"Interior building materials account for up to 40% of global emissions," he says. "I just knew there had to be a better way." 

 Rather than compromise, Rui co-founded Critical, a circular design company that fuses aesthetics with sustainability. Using recycled plastics to create interior design products that can be recycled again and again, Critical is breaking the cycle of waste and turning it into art. 

The journey wasn't without its challenges. After five years of developing their technology and moving into their own factory, disaster struck: a tornado completely destroyed the facility. 

But Rui and his team rebuilt from the ground up and came back stronger. Today, Critical produces everything from chopping boards to tiki, as well as bespoke corporate and retail business fitouts. 

With a unique niche in the sustainability market, they continue to grow, proving that design, ethics, and innovation are indeed a recipe for success. 

 Thanks for coming in Rui, it was amazing to hear your story and meet a Pakūranga College alum who is impacting the world so positively. 

You can check out Rui's business, Critical, here: https://criticaldesign.nz/