Sunnie Southern’s journey in tech isn’t about following well-worn paths. It’s about a relentless drive to solve complex problems and leverage technology for positive social impact. This passion, instilled by her entrepreneurial father and nurtured throughout her diverse career, positions her as a true leader in the ever-evolving field of technology.
Shaped by a Problem-Solving Mindset
Sunnie’s background is rich with experiences that honed her problem-solving skills and entrepreneurial spirit. Growing up in a family where resourcefulness was a necessity, she witnessed firsthand the power of ingenuity. Her father’s journey, from overcoming the tragedy of losing his own father in a coal mine explosion to becoming an inventor dedicated to safety in the industry, left a lasting impression. This instilled in Sunnie a deep empathy for those facing challenges and a desire to find solutions through innovation.
From Problem-Solver to Pharma Leader: Sunnie’s Early Career Trajectory
Sunnie’s formal education provided a springboard for tackling real-world problems. She didn’t just design a program for personal training clients; she implemented it, showcasing her ability to identify practical solutions and leverage technology to deliver broader impact. This early initiative highlighted her talent for streamlining processes and using technology to help more people, a skillset she would later leverage extensively.
During her dynamic career in pharmaceuticals, Sunnie led the launch of over 30 products across multiple companies. This experience wasn’t just about honing commercialization and go-to-market expertise; it provided her with a deep understanding of the healthcare system’s intricate workings. Witnessing these complexities firsthand further ignited her passion for innovation. She recognized the need for solutions that could improve healthcare outcomes and ensure wider accessibility – a vision that would later fuel the creation of Viable Synergy.
Viable Synergy: Building a Platform for Personalized Healthcare
Sunnie’s entrepreneurial spirit led her to found Viable Synergy, a company focused on healthcare innovation. Recognizing the potential of AI to personalize healthcare information, she led the development of “Innovation Station,” an AI-powered platform that delivered the right information to the right person at the right time. This wasn’t just about convenience; it was about empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Viable Synergy also housed “Innov8 for Health,” a global health innovation accelerator program. This initiative focused on identifying and nurturing solutions to pressing healthcare challenges, demonstrating Sunnie’s commitment to fostering collaboration and tackling problems at a global scale.
Beyond Innovation: An Advocate for Responsible AI
Sunnie’s vision extends far beyond building the next tech marvel. She’s deeply concerned about the ethical implications of AI and is committed to shaping its development for good. This passion fueled her work at Google Cloud and Verily, where she played a key role in groundbreaking projects like the Healthcare Data Engine and MedPalm2, Google’s first industry-specific GenerativeAI solution. Sunnie is a strong advocate for ensuring that AI is developed and used responsibly, considering the potential impact on every facet of society.
Beyond the Valley: Bringing Talent and Tech to Empower Business Leaders
Always up for a challenge, Sunnie recently left Verily to explore new frontiers. While excited about the immense potential of AI, she recognizes the need to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and the needs of everyday people and businesses. This focus on ensuring technology serves everyone aligns perfectly with her core values and her entrepreneurial spirit. Sunnie’s next move is highly anticipated; she’s poised to leverage her expertise to make a positive impact on a global scale.
Why Sunnie’s an Inspiration
Sunnie Southern is a role model for aspiring tech leaders, particularly women, who want to make a difference. Her unwavering dedication to solving real-world problems, combined with her commitment to responsible AI development, makes her a true trailblazer in the field. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, a problem-solving mindset, and a deep desire to leverage technology for the greater good. We can’t wait to see what Sunnie tackles next
