Headstrong

Empowering rangatahi with evidence-based wellbeing tools

Client

The University of Auckland

Date

2022-2025

Role

Developer

Empowering rangatahi with evidence-based wellbeing tools

Headstrong is a free, science-backed mental health app created to support young people in building resilience and healthy coping skills. Developed in partnership with researchers at the University of Auckland, the app blends cognitive behavioural therapy, positive psychology, mindfulness, relationship science, and harm-minimisation strategies into engaging, accessible digital experiences.

Since its inception in 2018, Headstrong has been shaped around a simple mission: to provide free, evidence-based wellbeing support to rangatahi in a way that feels safe, culturally attuned, and approachable. By combining proven psychological frameworks with conversational technology, it offers practical strategies for managing stress, tackling tough emotions, and navigating relationships.

Kekeno provides the full-stack engineering for Headstrong, including backend and mobile development, infrastructure, and more recently the integration of generative AI to explore dynamic and personalised chatbot experiences. Our team ensures the app continues to evolve with changing user needs and emerging technologies, maintaining a secure, scalable platform that young people can trust.

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