BROOKE ROBERTS - SHARESIES
Tell us about yourself and your business journey.
My business journey began in Hawke’s Bay where I built businesses of varying sizes during high school. I saw business as a way to enhance society or the environment around us. I was so into it that some of my friends nicknamed me “Miss Business” and my Maths teacher used to adapt maths problems into business problems for me to work out. This set the foundation for my career and created a strong desire to make change across Aotearoa. Once I entered the finance sector, my Sharesies Co-Founders and I identified the need for an accessible investing platform that could create equal financial opportunities for both those with $5 or $5 million. Since launching Sharesies we have built a platform that has democratised investing for more than half a million people and continued to introduce new wealth development opportunities through Sharesies Save and KiwiSaver.
Top tips to stay motivated?
No matter what business you’re in, or plan to be in, it’s pretty much guaranteed you will face challenges. To help weather the tougher times it’s my strong belief and sense of purpose in what we’re doing that always pulls me through. Over time I’ve become more aware of how important exercise is for my wellbeing too. Health is wealth and I find when I am in a good rhythm with fitness, I am naturally more motivated during the day and it helps me keep things in perspective.
What are your future plans for your business?
Since Sharesies was born our goal has always been to give New Zealanders a prosperous financial future. This has continued with the introduction of Sharesies Save and the impending roll out of ourself-select KiwiSaver scheme, designed to let people in Aotearoa choose which companies or funds their contributions are invested in. There is so much more that can be done in this space, and we are working to build it.
What made you getinto business?
Seeing opportunities that could be created for others. I love following my curiosity and I don’t mind doing things that some others would cringe at, like approaching people and asking for support. I have always loved building businesses and growing from both the challenges and successes along the way. Being able to have a positive impact on others, with Sharesies, gives a realsense of purpose and drives everything we do.
What are your top tips for other women wanting to get into business?
Never underestimate the power of community! There are so many incredibly talented people in Aotearoa building ideas and solutions that will shape the future of our country. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people is super important in helping to spark new ideas, face new challenges, and to be able to find support when you need it. Reach out to someone who inspires you in business. Nothing is really lost if they say no or don’t get back to you BUT you never know what could be gained if they do.
Words that you live by?
Where there is a will, there’s a way