The Story Behind MyMate
MyMate was founded in New Zealand by Ajit Kumar Nair, a seasoned designer, technologist, and father of a special-needs child.
With over three decades in graphic and digital design, Ajit has shaped online experiences for government organizations, with more than a decade with the Ministry of Social Development, improving access journeys for New Zealanders seeking support, and a further tenure with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, contributing to digital services that help people.
Professional Background
– 30+ years in Graphic Design, Web Development & UI/UX Design
– 11+ years at New Zealand’s Ministry of Social Development providing a range of financial and practical assistance for vulnerable and disabled people in New Zealand.
– 5+ years at New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment assisting users through special visa categories and specializing in accessibility and user experience within public service systems.
– Deep understanding of human-centered design, social impact, and government accessibility standards
Ajit Kumar Nair brings a rare blend of technical expertise and personal insight to MyMate — as both a design professional and a parent of a special-needs child supported by a dedicated caregiver. That combination of empathy and experience drives the mission at the heart of MyMate:
“to create technology that doesn’t just assist — it empowers”
“As a parent of a child with additional needs, I saw firsthand how difficult it can be to find technology that truly supports independence. I wanted to build something that empowers not only my child — but thousands of others like them.”
That vision became MyMate — a smart, inclusive, and accessible disability support app designed to make everyday life easier for people with cognitive, physical, or mental disabilities, their families, and their support workers. MyMate isn’t just a daily routine app for people with disabilities—it’s a heartfelt creation born from lived experience, love, and the unwavering belief that technology can uplift, support, and empower
Created by a Father, Not a Corporation!
The mission is to empower people with disabilities to live more independently, confidently, and connected – through technology that is simple, human-centered, and accessible to all.
MyMate is being built with four clear goals:
Accessibility first – every feature follows inclusive design principles and WCAG 2.2 standards.
⦿ Empathy driven – shaped by lived experience as a parent and advocate.
⦿ Intuitive design – a clean, calm, and easy-to-navigate experience for all abilities.
⦿ Real-world impact – a bridge between individuals, caregivers, and communities.
Why MyMate Matters?
More than one in four New Zealanders live with a disability — yet very few digital tools are designed for them.
MyMate aims to change that.
By combining inclusive UX design, smart technology, and real-life understanding of the disability community, MyMate helps:
⦿ Users manage their daily routines, reminders, and goals.
⦿ Caregivers and support workers coordinate activities and monitor progress.
⦿ Families and agencies stay connected through shared dashboards.
It’s more than an app — it’s a companion for independence.