Amongst the hustling and bustling, clinking wine glasses, Spotify kitchen swagger playlist and kids running around, a couple of things stuck out from our community event last week.
Being an entrepreneur is challenging but rewarding
While taking us through his professional journey from serving in the Australian Army for over 19 years to co-founding Sonder, Chris Marr shared his insights on the challenges and incredible rewards associated with leading and growing a team. This is the most critical part. That and being able to run fast to be able to keep ahead of the forces against you. Using his military training and extensive communication skills, Chris explained how he co-created a technology with three former colleagues which provides assistance to Australians needing help by connecting off-duty emergency professionals in under 20 minutes all around Australia.
Profit and purpose go hand in hand
To prosper over time, every company must not only deliver financial performance but also show how it makes a positive contribution to society. 90% of shoppers worldwide are more likely to switch to brands that support a good cause, given similar price and quality. Nate Hurst demonstrated that HP’s 1 billion USD financial growth is tied to sustainability programs including a program educating over 15 million children in India via solar powered buses.
Impact is not ephemeral
Change does not just impact the here and now; it can have far wider reaching consequences for future generations. Nathan Hurst gave an insight into how HP’s program in Haiti, which sees discarded plastics recycled into ink cartridges following the devastating 2010 earthquake, has not only helped women like Rosette earn a living but also ensured her children get an education and have a better quality of life. The initiative is also helping to rebuild the country’s infrastructure, aiding it’s long-term recovery.