Sonya Williams

Sonya Williams is a businesswoman and entrepreneur in New Zealand who, together with her business partner Brooke Roberts, co-founded Sharesies, a pioneering micro-investing platform. Since its launch in 2017, Sharesies has disrupted the investment industry by providing financial investment opportunities to a broader demographic, regardless of income or net worth.

A Victoria University of Wellington graduate, Williams had a diverse career path before Sharesies that helped her gain a wealth of experience across various industries. This diverse experience helped her develop a broad skill set and an understanding of different market dynamics that later became crucial in shaping the ethos and success of Sharesies.

The creation of Sharesies marked a significant shift in the New Zealand fintech sector. Under the leadership of Williams and Roberts, the platform stands out for its user-friendly interface, educational resources, and its principle of lowering the barriers to entry into investment. Sharesies allow individuals to start investing with minimal amounts, making financial markets more accessible, particularly to younger and new investors.

Sonya Williams and Brooke Roberts jointly won the 2020 Women of Influence Award in the Business Enterprise category for their significant contributions and impact. This accolade highlights their contributions to the business sector and their roles as pioneers in the fintech industry. It also acknowledges their impact within the fintech industry as role models for women in entrepreneurship and business leadership.

Apart from Sharesies, Williams is involved in other business ventures. Her entrepreneurial acumen and versatility have impacted various sectors, demonstrating her commitment to fostering innovation and inclusivity in the commercial landscape. Her work has transformed how people invest in New Zealand and sparked essential conversations on financial empowerment and democratising investment opportunities.