Rohitraj Guthpe | Business School | Waipapa Taumata Rau

Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) Finance

My passion is centred on how capital can be used to shape a better future for Aotearoa. Currently, New Zealand lags behind many of its developed peers in long-term investment, even as the need to modernise our infrastructure and respond to climate change becomes more urgent. With government resources stretched, the choices made by the private sector will increasingly determine whether this transition succeeds. I am personally drawn to the role of finance in influencing those choices. It’s a common trend that promising projects with real social and environmental value struggle to attract capital, while short-term thinking dominates investment decisions. I believe this reflects a leadership challenge as much as a financial one. My ambition is to help build a financial system that takes a longer-term view, directs capital with greater intention, and recognises that strong returns and positive impact do not have to be in conflict. I believe that done well, this investment can be a powerful tool for strengthening our economy, communities, and future generations.

Sponsor: Business School | Waipapa Taumata Rau

Mentor: Sam Stubbs

Managing Director of Simplicity and a leader in ethical investment and financial reform in Aotearoa. Sam has held senior roles across finance and investment industries and is known for championing long‑term, values‑driven economic thinking. He supports Kupe Scholars through mentoring focused on leadership, integrity, and impact.