Our Story

The Origins of Connected Horizons

In the late 1970s, before they became high school classmates, John Pennington and Mitchel Pham first met at their after-school job in a local takeaway bar. It was amidst the humdrum of slicing onions and chopping cauliflower that their friendship began to take shape. This early connection, formed over shared work and conversations, would lay the foundation for a lifelong partnership.

When the next school year began, John and Mitchel found themselves attending the same high school. Their bond only grew stronger as they navigated the challenges of high school together. They shared not just a friendship but also a burgeoning interest in technology and innovation. This camaraderie continued through their university years, where they pursued undergraduate studies side by side, dreaming of the possibilities that the future held.

John and Mitchel's early fascination with technology and their shared vision for the future would eventually lead them to create Connected Horizons Limited. Their complementary strengths became apparent as they embarked on their respective careers—John, the strategic thinker with a knack for digital transformation and supply chain optimization, and Mitchel, the visionary leader with expertise spanning multiple industries.

Mitchel's journey in New Zealand saw him rise to prominence in the technology sector. He chaired NZTech and co-founded numerous industry networks and collaborations, including FinTechNZ and the NZ Digital Health Association. His leadership extended to the New Zealand ASEAN Business Alliance and the Digital Council for Aotearoa NZ, where he played a significant role in shaping the government's Digital Strategy for Aotearoa New Zealand.

Mitchel's commitment to digital inclusion and environmental sustainability, along with his contributions to the Climate Technology Roadmap for New Zealand’s Emission Reductions Plan, further solidified his standing as a key figure in the tech industry. His expertise was sought globally, leading KEA’s global board, being part of the APEC Digital Trust think tank in Singapore, and earning recognition as a World Class New Zealander by KEA and a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum.

In January 2023, Mitchel's services to the technology sector and New Zealand-Asia relations were honored by King Charles III, who appointed him as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM).

Meanwhile, John carved his own path in global commerce, digital transformation, and supply chain optimization. His successful tenure as the Founder & CEO of Rfider Limited, an FDA award-winning supply chain traceability platform, demonstrated his deep understanding of international trade intricacies. John’s career included significant global roles at world-renowned firms such as Deloitte, Apple and Dell-EMC bringing a blend of strategic vision and pragmatic leadership to every endeavor.

As their careers progressed, the bond between John and Mitchel only strengthened. Their shared experiences and mutual respect for each other's expertise naturally led to the founding of Connected Horizons Limited. Together, they combined their extensive knowledge and networks to create a company dedicated to exploring and seizing global trade opportunities, with a particular focus on Vietnam.

Today, Connected Horizons Limited stands as a testament to the power of friendship, shared vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence. John and Mitchel's journey from takeaway bar coworkers to high school friends and finally to business partners underscores the company's commitment to quality, authenticity, and sustainability in global trade. Their story is not just one of business success, but of a lifelong friendship that continues to inspire and drive their vision for a better, more connected world.