Meet a Member: Tom Rovers
Tom Rovers is the co-founder of ClimateClass which is equipping professionals with knowledge, tools and frameworks to develop sustainable products and services. When he isn't teaching others how to develop sustainable products and services, Tom is developing them himself. He currently does this as a freelance Venture Builder for a global fashion brand.
Tom has worked in the field of digital and innovation for the past 12 years, helping many different companies in virtually all industries. And over the past 5 years, he started to fully focus on creating sustainable products. Not only because that’s what his clients needed most but also because it gave him much more energy!
We asked Tom: Why did you join the Business of Purpose Community? And who are you looking to connect with?
“A colleague told me about this amazing network with 1.500 people who shared my passion.I’m looking to connect with anyone who needs feedback, advice or motivation to continue on this journey. I love to share my experiences and help others do better.”
Is there an aspect of the way business is being conducted today that you are passionate about changing?
“In a world that’s driven by more/faster/bigger/newer it sometimes feels like an uphill battle. But I’m passionate about helping people to buy less, but better things and experiences. To show them that this is what truly improves the quality of your life.
Why is purpose-driven business the future?
“My co-founder recently shared his believe that it’s actually more about meaning, rather than purpose. Since it’s often not the finite state you’re trying to achieve in the end (fulfilling the purpose), but it’s about the journey and what it means to you to devote your time to this journey (meaning). It’s the same as with hiking or traveling. It’s often not about reaching the destination. But about what you do and who you meet along the way. Apart from this I do believe that many of us are already purpose driven. And many more would be if they had the luxury of doing so.”
What advice would you give to someone who is wanting to integrate purpose into their work?
1. Start today. First by figuring out in what way you want to give purpose. This differs from person to person. Pick something that’s close to you and that truly means something to you. That’s the only way to keep it up.
2. Start small. In order to start, you just need to start. No matter how small. If you’re excited about your purpose, others will follow your example.
If you are on a similar mission as Tom be sure to reach out to him via his LinkedIn or via our community Slack.
