Sunrise Speaker Spotlight: Brooke Roberts, Sharesies

We're back again to unveil another behind-the-scenes story of one of our formidable Sunrise Festival speakers. This week, we're delighted to introduce you to Brooke Roberts, co-founder, director, and Co-CEO of Sharsies. At Sharesies, their vision is to provide the same financial opportunities to someone with $5 as someone with $5 million.

In this edition of our series, we invite you to join us as we sit down with Brooke Roberts, who shares lessons learned and insights into how she fosters creativity and innovation within her team. A driving force in the realm of financial empowerment and innovation, Brooke has harnessed her passion for creating equal opportunities, impactful businesses, and delivering lovable experiences.

We were stoked to sit down with Brooke and delve into her career, impact-led mindset, and passion. 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: Having fun delivering impact with remarkable teams.

Blackbird: What is the number 1 thing you do to foster innovation and creative thinking in your team?

Brooke: We have such a talented team of creative problem solvers that it often comes easily. I think when we as a founding team got together and set Sharesies values (always care, in it together and chase remarkable) right at the formation of Sharesies was, one of the best things we did to ensure delivering lovable experiences to stakeholders was 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: First and foremost, I've got many more lessons to learn. It's never clocked! In fact, so many things being a founder teaches you, 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: I've always pondered why businesses exist and should exist for social or environmental purposes. To make things better. I'm also acutely aware business has an impact on way more than its shareholders. A business is impactful across various stakeholders: customers, employees, the environment, and our community. That's why in our Sharesies constitution, we're held 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: 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 as you ride that roller coaster! I'm also really passionate about creating financial empowerment for everyone. And the more united we are on that, the greater the impact now and in the future.   

Brooke has so much for wisdom to share, and we're excited to host her at Sunrise, Aotearoa ✨

Haven't got your tickets yet? Don't fear; GA tickets are now on sale; you get them here.