In this week's Sunrise sneak peek, we interview Brooke Roberts, co-Founder, Director, and co-CEO of Sharesies.
We’re thrilled to bring you another behind-the-scenes story of one of our formidable Sunrise Festival speakers. This week, we're delighted to introduce Brooke Roberts, co-founder, director, and co-CEO of Sharesies. At Sharesies, their vision is to provide the same financial opportunities to someone with $5 as someone with $5 million.
Join us as we sit down with Brooke Roberts, who shares lessons learned and insights into fostering creativity and innovation within her team. A driving force in financial empowerment and innovation, Brooke has harnessed her passion for creating equal opportunities, impactful businesses, and delivering lovable experiences.
Consider this a sneak peek of the immersive conversation you can expect when we #MeetAtSunrise this year in Aotearoa on September 20.
Blackbird: If you were to summarise your career in a single sentence, what would you say?
Brooke Roberts: Having fun delivering impact with remarkable teams.
Blackbird: What is the number one thing you do to foster innovation and creative thinking in your team?
Brooke Roberts: We have such a talented team of creative problem solvers that it often comes easily. Setting Sharesies' values – always care, in it together, and chase remarkable – from the very beginning was one of the best things we did. It ensures delivering lovable experiences to stakeholders is at the core of what we do.
Blackbird: What's the biggest lesson you have learned as a co-founder of a fast-moving startup?
Brooke Roberts: First and foremost, I've got many more lessons to learn. It's never clocked! Being a founder teaches you so much, including humility, patience, and resilience. I've definitely learned to be more objective when facing challenges too.
Blackbird: What do you think was the catalyst in your value system around business being a force for good, and how does that drive your daily decision-making?
Brooke Roberts: I've always pondered why businesses exist and believe they should have a social or environmental purpose – to make things better. I'm also acutely aware that businesses impact more than just their shareholders. A business affects various stakeholders: customers, employees, the environment, and our community. That's why our Sharesies constitution holds us accountable for the impact we have on stakeholders, not just shareholders.
Blackbird: Thinking about the current tech landscape, what is one thing you're excited to discuss or learn more about at Sunrise Aotearoa?
Brooke Roberts: I love connecting with other founders to swap stories, insights, and admire the cool things they've achieved. Plus, supporting those thinking about starting their own business. It takes courage and commitment to ride that roller coaster! I'm also passionate about creating financial empowerment for everyone. The more united we are on that, the greater the impact now and in the future.
Brooke has so much wisdom to share, and we're excited to host her at Sunrise, Aotearoa ✨