In health and medical research, and in purpose-driven organisations more broadly, the distinction between campaign urgency and campaign readiness is one that boards and executive teams rarely get right, and rarely get a second chance to correct.

Getting it wrong is not merely a fundraising setback. It can damage institutional credibility, exhaust leadership, and erode donor trust in ways that take years to repair.

The retraction of American foreign aid, the dismantling of USAID, and the United States' withdrawal from the World Health Organization have not merely created funding gaps, they have fractured the institutional scaffolding that the world built, over decades, to protect human health. For Australia, this global crisis arrives at a moment when our own domestic research funding is under quiet but serious pressure. The confluence of these forces makes one thing clear: philanthropy in health and medical research is no longer a generous supplement to government investment. It is an urgent necessity.

Following the sad news of Ted Turner’s death, our Founder and CEO, Ben Morton Wright, reflects on the visionary philanthropist whose landmark support for the United Nations helped redefine global giving, and whose 2017 letter to Talking Philanthropy remains as urgent and resonant today as it was then.

In London on 7th May 2026, Global Philanthropic will bring together some of the most influential voices in philanthropy, policy and humanitarian response for Talking Philanthropy London 2026, marking the first forum in its tenth anniversary year and setting the tone for a decade defined by action, not just intent.

Hosted in partnership with Altrata, this invitation only gathering will explore a central question facing the sector today. In a world of growing complexity, shifting power dynamics and structural inequalities, how can philanthropy deploy capital with greater discipline, purpose and impact?

Under the theme Beyond Aid: The Role of Philanthropy in a New World Context, the forum will examine how philanthropy can move beyond traditional models and embrace its role as risk capital, unlocking new approaches to resource mobilisation and long-term systemic change.

Earlier this year, Jean Sung had the honour of speaking before social workers, practitioners and cross-generational leaders of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council, an institution with over seven decades of deep-rooted commitment to community care and social welfare. The challenges we face today, be it inequality, sustainability, or social resilience, are not short-term problems. They cannot be solved through isolated efforts or episodic generosity. They demand something more deliberate and intentional.

Since 2016, Talking Philanthropy has created space for honest, rigorous dialogue about the forces reshaping global philanthropy. Its strength lies in its community; philanthropists, advisers and leaders who are not simply funding change, but actively designing it.

In 2026, Talking Philanthropy enters a new chapter with a multi-city programme across key global markets, including Sydney and London, culminating in an annual summit in Geneva.

Global Philanthropic is pleased to announce that Jean Sung has joined its main board as a Non-Executive Director, effective 11th December 2025.

Jean is one of the most experienced philanthropic leaders in Asia, with a career spanning private wealth, corporate philanthropy, and cross-sector collaboration. This is a strategic and critical appointment for Global Philanthropic as the organisation continues to strengthen and grow its presence across Asia, a region of profound philanthropic ambition, complexity and opportunity.

How do families keep their values alive while everything around them changes?

In this episode, remarkable philanthropists and philanthropic leaders pull back the curtain on what legacy really means and it’s far more than a will or a foundation deed.

They talk about the quiet work: conversations at the family table, councils that keep everyone aligned, the courage to ask awkward questions, and the belief that giving with intention matters more than scale.

It’s a candid, thoughtful and very human look at how generosity is shaped across generations.

Our client, NORTH Foundation’s CEO, Gilbert Lorquet, recently visited 30 organisations across the US and uncovered a compelling model for transformational philanthropy.

We're delighted to share his insights as part of our ongoing commitment to sector-leading thought leadership.

Gil generously contributed a comprehensive article to F&P (Fundraising & Philanthropy) Magazine, where he distils his learnings into ten key insights that together form a blueprint for transformational change in Australian healthcare philanthropy.

Our Asia Pacific team is privileged to be working with the Burnet Institute across projects ranging from medical research to large-scale public health initiatives, for the more than 30 countries in which they work.

While we can’t always give donors a first-hand view of the difference their support can make, helping them feel that impact through powerful storytelling is often the next best thing. A recent first-time visit to Papua New Guinea gave Rob Daly, from Burnet Institute Australia, invaluable insight into two of the organisation’s flagship initiatives. This insight is now strengthening the way Burnet engages supporters and communicates the urgency of its work.

What if the biggest shift in global philanthropy isn’t loud at all but quiet, steady, and led by women?

The third episode of our Philanthropic Wealth Transfer series explores how placing women at the centre of wealth conversations is reshaping agency, influence, and ultimately who and what gets funded. Paula Murphy Ives, Royal Bank of Canada, speaks to the power of helping women step into rooms where decisions are made and claim the authority they’ve always had.

Lady Edwina Grosvenor shares how expertise and philanthropy can redesign entire systems, as she has done with Hope Street, a community-based alternative for women in the UK's justice system. And Divia Harilela reminds us that storytelling is strategy and that fresh eyes, new voices, and heart-led leadership are driving philanthropy forward.

This is quiet power, with massive consequences.

From Code Red to Catalytic Change: How Emerging Technologies Are Reshaping Philanthropy and Impact Investing.

We’re living in what António Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations, calls a “Code Red for humanity”. And in moments like this, philanthropy can’t afford to stay in yesterday’s paradigm. The good news? It isn’t. From blockchain to AI, from crowdfunding platforms to blended finance, technology today is reshaping how philanthropists and impact investors think, act, and scale change.

In this punchy, thought-provoking episode, philanthropic leaders and next-generation voices explore why names like Rockefeller and Carnegie endure in our collective memory - not for the industries that made them wealthy, but for the impact of their giving.

Today, families are redefining legacy through innovation, collaboration and values passed down through action. From parenting that shapes purpose to AI-powered decision-making, they reveal how society’s evolving needs are reshaping what truly endures.

Discover how the next generation is using philanthropy to express identity, create lasting change, and be remembered for what they transformed, not what they owned.

How do you pass on not just wealth, but wisdom, values, and a sense of purpose? In this short film called From Dynasty to Design, leading philanthropic voices share candid reflections on family unity, identity, and the responsibility that comes with inherited influence.

From creating shared experiences to nurturing curiosity and compassion, this conversation explores how each generation can shape its own version of impact.

Take a few minutes to hear the voices shaping the next chapter of global giving.

As a next-gen leader of the Aziz Foundation, in this Global20 interview, Rahima Aziz BEM opens up about how the charity, established by her father, has grown into a powerhouse of postgraduate support for British Muslim students. With over 670 scholarships awarded so far, the Foundation now offers internships, strategic university partnerships, and wraparound student support. For Rahima, it's the relationships, not just the funding, that are helping young people succeed.

She and Ben Morton Wright speak candidly about the pressures facing her generation, from mental health to climate anxiety, and why philanthropy must evolve to meet these challenges. Rahima shares honest reflections about being both inspired by (and slightly intimidated by) the power and potential of her peers.

Her vision for the next decade? Deeper community ties, greater care and a space where every scholar feels seen and supported. It's not just about scale, it's about depth and leading with real heart.

In this timely interview, our Group Founder and CEO, Ben Morton Wright, and broadcaster, Kirsty Lang, dive into a high-stakes conversation about the future of philanthropy in a world facing uncertainty.

From the ripple effects of USAID cuts to the Gates Foundation’s $10 billion commitment, this is a fascinating look at how donors are reacting - and reimagining- their role.

The next generation of donors is set to become the most significant philanthropists in history but do you know how to engage them?

The recent webinar with Altrata's Valentina Guerrini, our CEO, Ben Morton Wright and Executive Director, Srishti Bakshi discussed how to connect with purpose-driven philanthropists through innovative digital strategies and understand the evolving landscape of charitable giving.

How can the largest wealth transfer in history shape a better future for all? In his opening address at the Talking Philanthropy 2024 forum, the 8th Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, spoke about the extraordinary opportunity presented by the largest wealth transfer in history, highlighting how, if used wisely, it could address global challenges.

Talking Philanthropy 2024 has been a forum of truly remarkable conversations, uniting brightest minds, passionate philanthropists, and dedicated leaders from across the world.

Reflecting on the incredible discussions, I am reminded of the amazing amount of work that goes into making such an event possible. My deepest gratitude to Lady Edwina Grosvenor for her unwavering support, our incredible partners and guest speakers, and the phenomenal Global Philanthropic team who made this extraordinary event a reality.

We are thrilled to announce that Cindy Forde has joined Global Philanthropic's main board as a Non-Executive Director. Cindy brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, particularly in the fields of environmental sustainability and education. She is the founder of Planetari, an organisation dedicated to educating and inspiring the next generation to create a thriving world that lives in harmony with nature.

Our warmest congratulations to the Educate Plus Excellence Award winners for 2024, recognised at the recent Empowering Success International Conference Awards Lunch.

In this interview with Emma Cherniavsky, Chief Executive Officer at UK for the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) Emma discusses the organisation's mission to rally public support for refugees and explores how digitalisation is transforming data analysis, donor engagement, and storytelling. In particular she spotlights the "Teach AI" campaign, which encouraged the public to select more positive and empowering images to improve AI-generated representations of refugees.

In this interview with Robin Millington we discuss Planet Tracker's focus on using the financial system to drive sustainability, particularly in materials management, food systems, and financial risks. Robin highlights the use of Natural Language Processing to identify risks in company documents, noting a discrepancy between what companies say in PR and financial documents, particularly regarding plastic risks.

In this interview Bill Abraham, Director of Development at University of London, discusses the impact of digitalisation on philanthropy.

Bill highlights the potential for digitalisation to expand educational opportunities and connect people globally, emphasising the value of digital storytelling in fundraising.

In this interview Hans Pung, President of RAND Europe, highlights how digitalisation is integral to their work. RAND Europe utilises digital tools like podcasts and social media to disseminate research and engage with wider audiences.

Emphasising digital storytelling, Hans underscores its importance in philanthropy, enhancing communication and impact and RAND Europe's collaboration with Global Philanthropic further strengthens their digital initiatives.

In this #Global20 interview which was recorded at an in-person event at Boodle Hatfield's London offices in May 2024, we dive into the potential of digitalisation to amplify philanthropic efforts.

Compere Ben Morton Wright, CEO and Founder of Global Philanthropic, explains how storytelling has always been in the organisation's DNA and our eminent guest speakers, Lady Edwina Grosvenor, Clare Stirzaker (Boodle Hatfield), Emily Thomas (ClientEarth), Srishti Bakshi (Global Philanthropic), Nick Taylor (Altrata) and Geoff Holt MBE (Wetwheels Foundation) share their journeys in philanthropy and leveraging technology for social change.

The speakers emphasise the importance of storytelling, network mapping, and tailoring content to specific channels to maximise impact. They share personal stories of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity, highlighting the importance of pursuing one's passions and overcoming obstacles to achieve goals.

Graham Stewart of Stewart Stained Glass is one of the many master crafts people engaged in the meticulous reinstatement of the iconic Christ Church Cathedral that was damaged by the catastrophic earthquakes in Christchurch, New Zealand in 2011. And just like so many others engaged in this world leading heritage project, he sees it as the pinnacle of a life’s work - a rare opportunity for which he has prepared over a lifetime.

Our Senior Consultant, Chanel Hughes, had the privilege of learning about the incredible challenges and intricacies of his team’s work while developing the Case for Support for the Cathedral Reinstatement Project as well as Graham’s own journey of perfecting a more than 1000 year old craft.

Global Philanthropic hosted an exclusive London event this week in partnership with Altrata and Boodle Hatfield, delving into the intersections of philanthropy and digitalisation. With a commitment to driving positive change in a rapidly evolving digital age, the event convened some of the most brilliant philanthropic thinkers and doers.

The escalating impacts of climate change, nature loss and pollution are pushing the boundaries of our legal system and climate litigation is increasingly being filed around the world by private and public actors alike. In the face of this triple planetary crisis, judges, as custodians of justice, find themselves adapting, innovating, and leading in unprecedented ways.

Read more about what our client, ClientEarth, one of the world’s most ambitious organisations, has been doing to address this.

On International Women's Day 2024, our latest Global 20 interview offers a timely reflection on the ongoing struggle for gender equality and celebrates the transformative efforts of women like Srishti Bakshi.

In this interview, Srishti sheds light on her remarkable journey in women's rights activism. The narrative unfolds with Srishti’s decision to leave corporate success behind and embark on a 3800km trek across India, championing equity for women globally. Her innovative use of art and digital media, including the creation of the award-winning documentary 'Women Of My Billion', underscores the power of technology in amplifying philanthropic initiatives. Delve into the full interview to uncover the depth of Srishti's narrative and explore the transformative potential of digital philanthropy.

The Grosvenor Family are no strangers to philanthropy. With a longstanding track record of supporting charitable initiatives throughout their history, they continue to provide long term sustainable help and opportunities throughout the world.

Lady Edwina Grosvenor, sister of the 7th Duke of Westminster is a passionate advocate for prison reform and founder and Chair of One Small Thing, an organisation that aims to redesign the justice system. Her extensive philanthropic work most recently saw the opening of Hope Street in June 2023, a safe space for women to serve their sentences in the community alongside their children.

We are therefore delighted to announce that Lady Edwina has been appointed Chair of Global Philanthropic’s Advisory Board with immediate effect.

Global Philanthropic has announced that Srishti Bakshi has been appointed Executive Director Europe & Asia and Senior Consultant with effect from 18th January 2024.

A dynamic and accomplished professional with a track record of successfully designing and implementing projects that create systemic change, Srishti has a wealth of experience in storytelling, advocacy, and grassroots initiatives that have been at the forefront of challenging social norms, gathering evidence, and influencing policy.

Global Philanthropic has announced that Martin Haigh has been elected the group’s new Chair of the Board with effect from 1st January 2024.

An early investor in Global Philanthropic, Martin’s involvement with the company began in 2000 and he has served on the Board for the last 15 years. His career as a stockbroker saw him head up trading teams dealing in the emerging equity markets of South America and Asia for some of the world’s largest institutional brokers such as HSBC, Banco Santander, Merrill Lynch and Standard Chartered. Having lived and worked in Hong Kong, more recently he has been pivotal in Asia event ticketing, working for Magnetic Asia as well as for the world’s largest promoter Live Nation as Head of Ticketmaster Asia.

The St Beryl Society launched by Burgmann College this year takes it origins from the stuff of legend, when founding residents may or may not have “kidnapped” comedic duo Peter Cook and Dudley Moore from the Canberra Airport on 13 September 1971.
While the kidnapping part is most certainly mythic, the enterprising group of ardent fans did gatecrash the press conference for the pair’s famous 'Behind The Fridge' tour, and did successfully persuade them to come to a celebratory dinner in the College Dining Hall. Read on to discover more about how we worked with the College to develop its bequest communications and provide advice for the launch of the St Beryl Society.

This thought-provoking Global 20 interview with Dr Ruth A Shapiro, Co-founder and CEO of Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS), provides a comprehensive overview of Asian philanthropy, its unique characteristics, challenges, and the potential it holds for shaping a sustainable future.

The conversation delves into the unique aspects of Asian philanthropy, including the strong influence of government and the significant role of family businesses. The community-centric approach of Asian philanthropists, focusing on relationships and addressing specific community needs, is discussed in fascinating detail.

Ultimately, all it takes to achieve a brighter future for the planet is a shifting of our collective thinking and actions as a human family. But where to begin? Author and activist Cindy Forde is starting young by enlightening children about important environmental issues and how they can be mitigated and fixed. 

In doing so, she is helping to prevent the burden of despair that can come with being born into a world that is facing possibly the most challenging periods of human history. Cindy’s book ‘Bright New World’ takes a child’s hand and guides them through the kind of world we can have.

In this Global20 interview she talks to our Group CEO, Ben Morton-Wright, about operating in line with the planetary boundaries. Explaining how intervention and digital innovations can be supported by philanthropy and radical collaborations, Cindy's interview is extremely powerful and instills hope for a more optimistic and positive future.

As the Pacific Ocean transitions from a three-year cooling period known as 'La Niña,' during which the highest temperatures ever recorded were observed, it is now entering an 'El Niño' phase, causing a rise in temperatures once again. Robin Millington, the CEO of Planet Tracker, discusses the significant implications this will have on global food production.

In this Global 20 interview, Robin emphasises the role philanthropic funding can play in addressing the challenges related to food supply, and highlights the increasing responsibility of large food companies in the face of climate change-driven pressures on our food production.

The realm of philanthropy presents abundant opportunities to support inspiring people and organisations dedicated to driving social change. It can also be full of a daunting number of choices regarding how and where money can make a positive impact.

The role of a philanthropy advisor guides philanthropists through all the options, yet it can be likened to a film producer - behind the scenes, often unknown, yet integral to a blockbuster movie!

In this Global 20 interview, our CEO and Founder Ben Morton-Wright talks to Emma Beeston about her new book 'Advising Philanthropists', which she co-authored with Beth Breeze. They discuss the emergence of philanthropy advising as a not-at-all fluffy profession, unpack how the sector is evolving with collective collaboration and Emma’s optimism for the younger generation creating impact with their lives.

With a potential global recession on our doorstep, what lessons can we apply to the current situation and how can we build sustainability and future-proof philanthropy?

In his blog post Lincoln Size explores what history teaches us and how the answer lies in changing our mindset to giving. The days of rattling the tin are over!

In the latest of our Global 20 series, we are privileged to bring you a penetrating interview with Dr Doug Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum in London. Formerly Global Vice-President and Head of Amazon UK, and Chairman of the British Heart Foundation, Doug is highly respected for his visionary leadership and recognised globally for his remarkable contributions to the realms of technology, business, and public service.

In this deeply compelling interview, Doug talks to our Chair Iain Rawlinson about his journey from the corporate to non-profit world, the ground-breaking work being carried out that measures the pristine natural biodiversity on the Earth’s surface, and the pressing challenges posed by the threat of a sixth mass extinction.

Do listen or watch until the end as Doug imparts his belief that there is hope for the future as a path is found where global economic growth is still possible without over consuming the Earth's precious and natural resources, whilst emphasising the collective responsibility in this endeavour.

We are thrilled to announce a promotion within our organisation. Our President of Global Philanthropic Europe, Dr Pam Davis, will move to a new role of Honorary Chair from January 2024.

As an integral member of our team, Pam has consistently exemplified the highest standards of professionalism, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to the charitable sector and philanthropic community. Her valuable contributions, innovative thinking, and exceptional guidance have also significantly shaped our company’s success.

Are you a highly driven and experienced leader? As our global business grows we are excited to announce an opportunity for an exceptional individual to join Global Philanthropic as a senior member of our Europe team. Highly networked with extensive experience working in the philanthropic arena, the successful candidate will be a strategic thinker who will be pivotal in leading our team in delivering outstanding service to our clients, developing innovative programs and maximising revenue generating opportunities.
The successful candidate will be joining us at an exciting time of unique challenge and opportunity.

Many of the best cultural organisations and art centres worldwide are very cognisant of their responsibility to diversity and accessibility. With Australia being one of the most multicultural communities on the planet, Douglas Gautier, CEO and Artistic Director of Adelaide Festival Centre knows only too well where arts and culture flourish generally, so does harmony and tolerance and a better understanding of walking in somebody else's shoes.

In this interview our Vice President of Australia, Lincoln Size, talks to Douglas about how philanthropy has contributed to the arts and culture in Australia, examines the role of corporates in arts philanthropy and asks what advice he would give to philanthropists who may be wondering how to have the greatest impact with their support of the arts.

Whilst Australia is a world leader in medical research, it still has challenges in moving new ideas through the research pipeline to become new medicines, therapies and services that improve health. In this article discover more about the symbiotic relationship between government, business and philanthropy and how extraordinarily generous donations by some of the nation’s wealthiest residents and donors is helping to bring long-term societal change and eradicate diseases.

IFAW (International Fund for Animal Welfare) is a global non-profit organisation helping animals and people thrive together. Working across oceans, and in more than 40 countries around the world, IFAW rescues, rehabilitates and releases animals, restoring and protecting their natural habitats. Conservation problems today are urgent and complicated; to help solve them, IFAW matches fresh thinking with bold action.

Many a company has jumped on the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) bandwagon to legitimise their social responsibility. But in doing so, have they delivered meaningful social impact, or merely marketed their social credentials to enhance employee engagement and brand?

Around the world nearly 2.5 billion people rely on land for their livelihoods yet many do not have the tenure to their land necessary to thrive. Securing land rights for the world’s poorest people is the work of Landesa, who in 2022, received a $20 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.

In this interview we hear from Mark Ruffo, who explains why they don’t accept government funding, their capacity building in the Global South and how they are uniquely positioned to help 400 million rural women realise the benefits of strength and land rights by 2027.

We were greatly inspired by our recent visit to Hope Street in Hampshire, a trailblazing new service that will prevent women from receiving short prison sentences for non-violent crimes that can result in separation from children.

Recent times have seen a massive jump in the amount of data and insights available. Quality research data is providing powerful and indisputable evidence, none more so in the philanthropic sector than that from Philanthropy Impact.

In this interview John delves in to the sometimes-confusing terminology used in philanthropy, HMRC's research on giving trends and what philanthropists really expect from their advisors.

London Southbank University (LSBU) have been transforming lives, communities, and businesses for over 120 years. As they adapt to a new Group structure and take full advantage of the digital age embracing innovation and sustainability, they approached us to support their ambitions to be fit for the future. LSBU are now in a more confident place after we supported them to think through fundraising strategies and begin to develop fundraising approaches for both student support and academic research.

Over the course of the last 30 years, Dame Stephanie has given away almost £70 million to good causes.

In this interview, Dame Shirley talks about important role of women in philanthropy, Venture Philanthropy, and how she approaches and focuses her giving, investing strategically in projects that will benefit from her time or insight, as well as her money, to maximise positive outcomes.

As part of our 20th anniversary celebrations, we are sharing 20 interviews with leaders in philanthropy and the nonprofit sector. Here Nick Jaffer, President and CEO, Global Philanthropic (Asia Pacific), interviews Professor Frances Corner OBE, Warden of Goldsmiths, University of London.

In this interview, Professor Corner talks about the role of education in transforming peoples lives, Goldsmiths' commitment to diversity and community, and its initiative around art for social good.

On 4th November 2022, Arts Council England (ACE) announced which organisations have gained or lost National Portfolio Organisation (NPO) status. NPOs will receive three-year funding support from ACE, starting in April 2023 and decisions were made in line with the government policy of “Levelling Up”. Funding of £446M will be shared by a total of 990 arts and culture organisations; but many organisations heard the unwelcome news that they would be receiving less funding, or none at all.

The heart of Burgmann College is its egalitarian ethos and deep belief in the value every member brings to its community.

This unique not-for-profit residential college, supporting students of the Australian National University (ANU) in Canberra, holds relationship at its core. Yet, it was hesitant to explore amongst its community the potential for philanthropic support.

As part of our 20th anniversary celebrations, we are sharing 20 interviews with leaders in philanthropy and the nonprofit sector. Here Ben Morton-Wright, Global Philanthropic Founder and Group CEO, interviews Geoff Holt MBE, DL, Yachtsman and Disability Sports Ambassador.

In this interview, Geoff talks about the challenges facing charities in the disability sector, the importance of brand and how The Wetwheels Foundation has structured its model as well as its strategic long term thinking and development plan.

#Global20 - Interview with Prof David Lalloo, Director, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.

As part of our 20th birthday celebrations, we are sharing 20 interviews with leaders in philanthropy and the nonprofit sector. Here Ben Morton-Wright, Global Philanthropic Founder and Group CEO, interviews Professor David Lalloo, Director of Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM).

#Global20 interview with Lord Simon Woolley, Principal of Homerton College, Cambridge and Pam Davis, President, Global Philanthropic (Europe). In this interview, Lord Woolley explains how philanthropists can empower beneficiaries and allow them to be the experts in making impact.

#Global20 interview with Griff Green, Co-Founder of Giveth and Ben Morton-Wright, CEO, Global Philanthropic on the future of cryptocurrencies and this new area of development in philanthropic transactions.