Rokt’star Spotlight: Shenika Louis

We’re taking a moment to highlight some of the Rokt’stars that help their teams thrive by challenging the status quo and working in different ways. Read on to hear about their time at Rokt and what makes them tick both in and out of the office.

Meet Shenika

Tell us more about your role and how it impacts the Rokt products and culture.

I am a Senior Executive Assistant (EA) on the Support team at Rokt, which is composed of other EAs and Rokt’stars that enhance the logistical efficiency of our leaders, teams, and internal events.My role heavily focuses on making the team’s day-to-day logistics more organized and efficient. As an EA, I touch all departments and functions of the business, from People to Operations.

As an EA, your role is part of the wider Support team. What makes that team unique to Rokt?

I’ve never been part of a team fully dedicated to supporting the company’s leaders and internal functions until I joined Rokt. The Support team is so unique because we support one another, not just Rokt’s leaders.

One way I’ve seen this team truly shine is all the work we do behind-the-scenes at Rokt’s annual Global Kick Off (GKO) event. The Support team helps organize the event to ensure our Rokt’stars are taken care of from check-in to check-out. Spending the week at GKO with the team makes us better together!

February is Black History Month. As a chair member of Rokt’s employee resource group (ERG), Blak’stars, what are some of the activities happening this month?

We have some exciting stuff planned! We’re organizing a Black Leadership in Tech panel in our NYC office this month, as well as sharing volunteer opportunities for employees who want to give back to the community. We’ll also be featuring cuisines from Black-owned restaurants in our weekly catering rotation, so our NYC-based Rokt’stars can get a taste of other cultures during Black History Month.

How are you celebrating this month?

Every February, I go out of my way to shop at Black-owned businesses and restaurants around New York City. It’s so important to me to support these businesses year-round as well.

What have been some of your favorite events or initiatives that Blak’stars has organized in the past?

Blak’stars hosted a Black ERG social networking event for over 150 Black professionals from several Fortune 500 companies. This event was so special because it was the biggest event ever held at Rokt’s NYC office and was hosted by the smallest ERG. We didn’t expect so many people to attend, and the turnout showed how vital it is for businesses to invest in the Black tech community. It’s so important for Black professionals to have safe spaces to connect, grow, and feel empowered. It just goes to show how big our impact can be.

What are your hopes for the tech industry becoming more inclusive? What are some hopes for Rokt specifically?

I had the opportunity to attend AfroTech last fall by using Rokt’s Level Up program. It was so inspiring to see thousands of Black students and professionals in that space, and I would love to see more tech companies invest in being present at Black tech conferences.

One other way the tech industry can invest in inclusivity is by building training and mentorship programs for underrepresented groups. This can be a daunting industry for people who don’t consider themselves tech-savvy, but creating more opportunities for Black communities to enter the tech industry will help cultivate a culture of transparency.

How is Rokt different from other places you’ve worked?

Rokt is all about growth – not just on a business level, but an individual level. The Level Up training allowance gives Rokt’stars the ability to invest in opportunities that advance their professional development. Everyone has an opportunity to learn and raise the bar.

What advice do you have for those looking to be better allies to the Black community especially in the workplace?

Questions are always welcome as long as they are respectful. There are so many different communities and cultures that interact in a workplace, so there are many opportunities to learn about new perspectives and ask questions. There’s always room for curiosity!

What are your passions or hobbies outside of the office? How do you spend your free time?

I’m obsessed with clothes. During my free time, I love to put looks together, window shop, and inspire others to improve their everyday outfits.  It’s been a passion since I was a kid. Someday I’d love to style executives for panels, speaking engagements, and other events.

What was your favorite band or musical artist in high school?

I loved listening to rap – I’d say The Notorious B.I.G., Jay Z, and  Nas. Funny how some of  those artists are also the names of some of our meeting rooms!

What Rokt value resonates with you the most?

Raise the Bar – I love looking for ways to elevate and challenge myself!

Learn more about Rokt’s culture here.

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