Gokul Gnaneswaran is the Head of Architecture at Vector Energy, and he loves building networks – whether it's software, or people.
When he first saw the Push-Up Challenge was coming to New Zealand in February 2026, he didn’t hesitate to put the word out amongst his colleagues and rally a team together.
He jokes that many claim they were “volun-told” to sign up, and in the end, he’d persuaded a team of 100 staff members to take part.
Gokul had taken part in the Australian iteration of the challenge the year earlier and was stoked to have the ability to take part again, and this time fundraise for a local charity – the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand.
Gokul understands how vital mental health support is at work, shaped by his own experience with burnout during a previous consulting role, a time that showed him just how important it is to have people you can talk to.
For Gokul, championing The Push-Up Challenge at Vector wasn’t just about fitness – it was about building community.
“I loved the positive vibes of this challenge – it made me get out and do stuff and try to get everyone involved.”
From day one, the team chat set up for The Push-Up challenge quickly grew into a hub of humour and encouragement.
Each night at midnight, he would check the app for the next day’s daily mental health fact, create his own customised image, and share it with the team at 8am.
Impromptu group push-up sessions started popping up across the office, creating moments of connection that carried into everyday work. If someone was struggling to hit their numbers, a quick chat at the coffee machine was often enough motivation to get them over the line.
The Push-Up Challenge strengthened what Gokul already valued about Vector: a focus on team wellbeing, diversity, and positive culture. “I grew up helping people out and being of service and growing community are strong values.”
Gokul helped raise $2,800 personally, and the Vector Team (Sparkies) put in a great effort overall, raising $9,563 for the Mental Health Foundation. But more importantly, the Push-Up Challenge built camaraderie, opened conversations about mental health, and reminded the team at Vector of the power of showing up for one another.