Time flies. Meeting David Chung again after eight years, he overcame challenges with a pragmatic attitude and an innovative spirit, leading the steady development of Animae Technologies Limited, a multimedia production company he founded. Continuously exploring both local and international markets, he is eager to share the secrets of his success.
Dreams and Persistence
After completing the Higher Diploma in Computer Games and Animation at VTC, David Chung successfully enrolled in a local university to pursue his studies in Creative Media. He continued to strive towards his dreams, demonstrating diligence and determination, forging his own path to entrepreneurship.
Despite facing literacy challenges, David displayed a strong interest and talent in design from a young age. Throughout high school, he immersed himself in the fields of 3D animation, creative multimedia, and product design. His works received numerous accolades, establishing a solid foundation for his future entrepreneurial journey. During university, David met like-minded and proficient programming partner Carmen Lam. Encouraged and supported by their professors, they took a brave step towards entrepreneurship before graduation, founding Animae Studio. They provided multimedia production services to clients and collaborated with renowned local brands to develop interactive toy-operated game programs.
In 2014, shortly after university graduation, David officially established Animae Technologies Limited in the Science Park, assuming the role of Creative Director. He focused on researching and developing interactive, intelligent, and Internet of Things entertainment products, continuously exploring the integration of technology and creativity. Upholding innovative ideas, he steadily worked towards realising his dream career. Over the years, the company actively participated in various exhibitions within the Science Park, engaged in online discussions and seminars, and exchanged ideas with other innovators. Through dedicated efforts, the company also built a good reputation within the industry.
Challenges and Growth
David's entrepreneurial journey encountered numerous challenges. Initially, the company took on smaller projects, necessitating careful financial considerations to ensure a return on investment. Fortunately, the Co-founder and Managing Director, Carmen Lam, personally handled every aspect of the business and excelled in financial planning, enabling the stable growth of the company.
David and Carmen, driven by their practical spirit and willingness to try new approaches, gradually increased their project portfolio. They ventured into electronic stamp patent projects, collaborated with museums for patented technologies used in capsule toy machines, and even promoted their technical business to countries like Europe, America, and Japan. Furthermore, they specialised in developing interactive games using augmented reality (AR) technology, passionately embracing new creative avenues and incorporating their expertise into every project, keeping up with the pulse of technological advancements. David enjoys the creative process, relishes the challenge of exploring new directions, and continuously conducts research, combining technology with practical projects. When faced with difficulties, he humbly seeks the ideas and experiences of technical experts, pragmatically seeking solutions.
Innovation and Opportunities
In 2022, David collaborated with a fast-food restaurant chain and installed three charging bikes at their branch in the Science Park. These bikes were designed to connect to mobile phones via USB charging cables or wireless charging pads, allowing customers to pedal on the bikes while enjoying their meals. This innovative project transformed the energy and fat burned during exercise into electrical power to charge smartphones. The design of the bikes also incorporated ergonomic adjustments in pedal position and height, along with a maximum speed setting to ensure safety. This creative initiative, which combined environmental sustainability, technology, and dining experience, was well-received. The successful partnership with the fast-food restaurant chain was made possible through the trust and recommendation from the Science Park, which recognised the company's technical expertise and innovative ideas. The fast-food restaurant chain also appreciated the company's proposal and implemented the solution to provide an enjoyable dining and exercise experience for their customers.
In the face of ever-changing external circumstances, David believes in adapting to the times. During the pandemic, for example, when mall activities were cancelled and project opportunities decreased, he promptly adjusted his strategies and actively sought collaborations with public institutions or government departments to stabilise the company's development. Throughout his journey of seizing opportunities, David consistently expresses gratitude to his teachers at VTC and university professors who provided him with opportunities to showcase his creative products on campus and introduce them to interested individuals. He understands that by continuously cultivating and sowing the seeds of opportunity, when those seeds germinate and opportunities arise, through diligent nurturing, there is a chance to reap the rewards.
Capability and Fortuity
Over the past decade, David has continuously explored international markets in countries such as the United States, Europe, Australia, and Japan. He understands that each project requires different technological requirements, and therefore, having a diverse network of partners is crucial to strengthen his company's capabilities. Maintaining constant communication with the technical community and networking is also essential. When handling projects, the company places particular emphasis on effective communication with clients and departments, despite the inherent challenges. David has also broken the stereotype of IT professionals being introverted. He has demonstrated that individuals in the technical field can possess excellent communication and presentation skills. His ability to engage in conversations and express his viewpoints has won him more collaboration opportunities.
David recognises that success does not happen overnight. He emphasizes the importance of both capability and fortuity, believing that capability needs continuous improvement, while fortuity is the accumulation of efforts made in seeking opportunities. Each year, David's company provides internship opportunities for VTC graduates. He encourages his juniors to believe that practical experience is the best way to grow. For those who have dreams, they can also look to his entrepreneurial journey as inspiration to create new chapters for themselves.
