In just a few short years Brooki Bakehouse founder and owner Brooke Saward has gone from strength to strength. Most recently she has taken out the Food Innovation Award in Queensland’s 40 Under 40 list.

Since she first opened the doors to her Brisbane-based bakery, Brooke has grown the business into something of a phenomenon, and now ships the signature cookies across Australia and North America, while the bakery itself regularly has lines out the door.

Brooke told The Weekend Edition that she has learnt that perseverance and focusing on your strength is the most advantageous way forward.

“… while always looking outside of the box for ideas to take your idea to the world,” she said to the publication.

“It was such a nice feeling to be named as a finalist, but totally surreal to take home an award on the night.

“It was such an honour to be presented with the award from an iconic Queensland food brand [Betty’s Burgers], who themselves have paved the vision of success for so many businesses in the sector.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to be recognised for your passion and hard work, but even better – a great opportunity to meet and mingle with fellow entrepreneurs under 40 and a great way to connect with others.”

Brooke’s concept for Brooki Bakehouse centres on creating a bakery that specialised in celebrations beyond cake.

“We love cake at Brooki, but we also think there are so many other ways to give the gift of sweetness—like a thank-you box of macarons or arriving with a box of cookies to your friend’s dinner party,” Brooke told Baking Business in 2023.

“I really wanted the products to centre around celebrations and gift giving, which is why I place so much emphasis on packaging and brand design as I believe it is such an important part of gift giving.”

The 40 Under 40 Awards recognise outstanding individuals under the age of 40 who are making significant contributions in their field.