Do One Better with Alberto Lidji in Philanthropy, Sustainability and Social Entrepreneurship (Alberto Lidji)

It’s been said that philanthropy is under attack. In this episode we explore key arguments in favour and against philanthropy and highlight opportunities for the road ahead. 

No matter your views on philanthropy, you will find this episode informative and thought-provoking. 

Beth worked as a fundraiser and charity manager for a decade before co-founding the Centre for Philanthropy at the University of Kent in 2008.

She researched and wrote the annual Coutts Million Pound Donor Report from 2008-2017, co-authored Richer Lives: why rich people give (2013), The Logic of Charity: Great Expectations in Hard Times (2015) and co-edited The Philanthropy Reader (2016). 

Her last book The New Fundraisers: who organises generosity in contemporary society? won the AFP Skystone Research Partners book prize for 2018, and her new book, published in Autumn 2021, ‘In Defence of Philanthropy’, is a timely response to growing critiques of private giving.

Thank you for downloading this episode. For information on nearly 150 episodes with remarkable thought leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship, visit our website at Lidji.org

 

Sir Peter was Chief Science Advisor to the Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2009 to 2018, serving three Prime Ministers: John Key, Bill English and Jacinda Ardern. He’s also the Director of Koi Tū — the Centre for Informed Futures — a New Zealand based think tank looking at some of the most pressing issues impacting our world.

In this episode we talk about the role of chief science advisors, how science and policymaking work together and the interaction between science and diplomacy — a discussion that takes place within a backdrop of declining public trust, increasing misinformation and the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

For a full transcript of this episode visit The Do One Better! Podcast website at Lidji.org — please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others. Thank you!

 

Danil Mikhailov is the Executive Director of data.org — a nonprofit organization that is a platform for partnerships and is helping to build the field of data for social impact. They work with organizations from all over the world to increase the use of data in order to improve the lives of millions of people.

At data.org they embrace a socio-tech perspective and appreciate that it’s not just about the tech... it’s also about the humans… those who collect the data, those who use the data, those from whom the data is collected.

We look at the work of data.org, explore how data can be leveraged by small and large organizations alike and consider the implications of artificial intelligence, such as the recently-launched ChatGPT AI tool.

If you’d like to understand how to leverage data for social impact and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) this episode is perfect for you!

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

CEO of Dubai Cares, Dr Tariq Al Gurg, joins Alberto Lidji to discuss the global education agenda, the RewirED global summit on education in Dubai 2021 and much more.

 

Dubai Cares is playing a key role in helping achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 , which aims to ensure inclusive and quality education for all and promote lifelong learning by 2030, by supporting programs in early childhood development, access to quality primary and secondary education, technical and vocational education and training for youth as well as a particular focus on education in emergencies and protracted crises.

 

Dubai Cares is a global force driving forward the education agenda.  It was founded in 2007 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

 

Since its inception, Dubai Cares, part of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has been working towards providing children and young people in developing countries with access to quality education through the design and funding of programs that aim to be integrated, impactful, sustainable and scalable.

 

As a result, the UAE-based global philanthropic organisation has successfully launched education programs reaching over 20 million beneficiaries in 59 developing countries.

 

We hear how Dubai Cares tackles education in a holistic manner, going beyond schools and looking at health, nutrition, gender equality and education in conflict settings.

 

Dubai Cares is open to exploring collaboration with everyone. They are aware that risk-taking is part of the conversation and that organisations both old and new deserve a chance.

 

Shortly after Dubai Cares launched, Bill Gates came to Dubai and signed a 4-year partnership with Dubai Cares, focused on school, health and nutrition.

 

At the time Dubai Cares was new and didn’t have the global reach or recognition that it has today. But, because of Bill Gates’ signing, Dubai Cares’ standing increased and many doors were opened.

 

Today, Dubai Cares believes that they, in turn, now need to provide their weight to bring other NGOs to the fore and to help nurture nascent organisations into great partners.

 

The podcast conversation is wide-ranging. From advice to new philanthropists to insight on preventing frontline programmes from vanishing during periods of political transition.

 

We hear how on 17-19 March 2021, Dubai Cares will convene stakeholders from across the globe in Dubai for the RewirED Conference – the world’s largest summit on education.  The three focus areas: (1) youths and skills, (2) financing in education and (3) innovation in education.

 

The key takeaway: more investment is required in education. Many stats are listed but arguably the most poignant one is that only 2.5% of global humanitarian funding goes to education. Without education, nothing is possible – no internet, no healthcare, nothing.

 

Visit Lidji.org for guest bios, episode notes and useful links.  Please subscribe and share widely if you enjoy this podcast -- thank you!

 

 

The Centre for Evidence and Implementation (CEI) is a global not-for-profit advisory organisation set up in Australia in 2016 with offices in Singapore, the UK and Australia.  They are a social enterprise subsidiary of Save the Children.  

CEI is a mission-driven organisation dedicated to seeing the best evidence implemented in policy and practice to improve the lives of vulnerable people. They work with a range of clients, including governments, foundations and social sector agencies by supporting them to use evidence well and to implement it well.

In order to help organisations accelerate the use of evidence on what works to improve the lives of vulnerable people, the folks at CEI do three things: (1) they support organisations to make sense of the evidence; (2) they work with them to trial, test and evaluate approaches; and (3) they work in ‘Implementation Science’ — if we think of evidence-based interventions as the ‘what’, then Implementation Science is the ‘how’.

During the conversation, we look at what it actually means to be evidence-informed in one’s philanthropy, both from a perspective of outlook and from a perspective of approach.

What is evidence and why is it important? There is a need to move away from what simply ‘sounds good’ to what is actually based on good science and research.  Moreover, there is a need to embrace a learning mindset — shifting the emphasis from trying to get it right all the time to a focus on learning and sharing what one has learned.  Innovation is also key and, counterintuitive as it may sound, being innovative also means simply doing what works, now.

Research, methodologies and frameworks have changed over the last 20 years and the potential for big data and artificial intelligence (AI) to transform the field in the coming years is tremendous.

This episode is for anyone who is keen to understand research and evidence, how it is implemented to improve the lives of vulnerable people, why it is important and how its insight can be viewed as a public good on a global level.

Click the subscribe button if you enjoy this episode and visit The Do One Better Podcast website at Lidji.org for insight on more than 100 other interviews with remarkable thought leaders. 

 

Action Against Hunger is active in 51 countries, they have 8,000 staff and assist around 26 million people annually; their turnover is around half a billion euros.

In the UK, they are part of the DEC (Disasters Emergency Committee), which brings together 15 leading UK aid charities to raise funds quickly and efficiently at times of crisis overseas.

They are focused on prediction, prevention and treatment of severe malnutrition — especially within a Global South / developing world context.

Encouragingly, there is a treatment for acute malnutrition called “Ready to Use Therapeutic Food” (RUTF) — a treatment that has evolved considerably during the past 20 years — no longer requiring clinical settings nor refrigeration — and today can cure most severely malnourished children around the world. 

However, the challenging logistics of reaching remote geographic locations and engaging within armed conflict areas present serious problems.

These problems are exacerbated by the fact many national governments intentionally conceal problems of malnutrition within their populations in order to project a more favourable image to the external world; and by the overall funding gap that must be filled in order to transform the current reality and achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

We also learn of Action Against Hunger’s work in supporting and empowering local communities by providing them with the tools to conduct self-diagnosis. The “Mid-Upper Arm Circumference” band (MUAC), is one example of this — a simple colour-coded measuring tape that can be used by parents and caretakers (including those who aren’t able to read) to determine whether a child is malnourished and, if so, to what degree.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Please leave us a rating and a review to help others find this show.

 

In this powerful and urgent conversation, Baroness Joanna Shields offers a compelling account of her work founding and leading the WeProtect Global Alliance—a coalition of over 100 governments and 320 organisations uniting to combat the growing threat of online child sexual abuse and exploitation. A former tech executive and government minister, she bridges sectors to drive systemic change, confronting one of the most complex challenges of our time.

She reflects on the Alliance’s origins a decade ago, when the international community was still reluctant to acknowledge the prevalence of online predators and child exploitation. Since then, WeProtect has pushed the issue onto the global policy agenda, created a model national response framework, and developed comprehensive threat assessments that inform governments worldwide. Yet despite progress, the scale and severity of online harms remain staggering, and Baroness Shields warns of a worsening crisis if action stalls.

At the heart of the problem lies a lack of cohesive age assurance infrastructure across the internet. Unlike in the physical world—where age restrictions govern access to alcohol, voting, or driving—digital spaces remain largely unregulated. This regulatory vacuum leaves children vulnerable to harmful content and predatory behaviour. She argues that responsibility cannot rest solely on parents, who are often overwhelmed and ill-equipped to navigate the evolving digital landscape. Instead, the tech industry must lead with shared standards, particularly through the adoption of a universal, privacy-respecting age signal that follows a child across platforms.

The conversation explores the tension between safety and free expression. In this context, Baroness Shields sees age assurance as a pragmatic solution that empowers families and safeguards children without compromising the broader architecture of the open internet.

Artificial intelligence emerges as both a promising tool and a dangerous vector. AI can be deployed to detect grooming behaviour and prevent exploitation. But it also enables new forms of abuse—like AI-generated sexual imagery and manipulative chatbots targeting minors. 

Throughout the episode, Baroness Shields remains clear-eyed about the challenge but anchored in optimism. She believes in the transformative potential of technology—if it is shaped by common sense, accountability, and a commitment to protecting the most vulnerable. Her call is for an alliance of the willing—governments, tech leaders, civil society—to coalesce around a shared digital future where children are empowered to thrive, not endangered by design.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

On this episode, we are talking with Shane Ryan, Global Executive Director of the Avast Foundation.  Many of you who use a computer day in and day out will recognise the Avast brand — they are one of the world’s leading antivirus software providers.

We are going to be talking with Shane about equity and inclusion within the digital space, and to kick things off, here’s a sobering statistic: 

According to the United Nations, nearly 3 billion people, or 37% of the global population, have never been online despite a rise in Internet use during the pandemic. And, here’s another statistic: 96% of those nearly 3 billion people who have never been online, live in the developing world.

Today’s conversation is well-rounded and spans equity and inclusion within the digital space, trust-based philanthropy, inclusive co-design and much more. 

Shane himself has overcome much adversity during his childhood, having been in care and coming from humble beginnings in West London; and subsequently succeeding in a career that saw him become Deputy Director of the National Lottery Community Fund, in the UK and, today, Global Executive Director of the Avast Foundation.

His experience in equity, inclusion, grant-making and philanthropy provide him with a unique vantage point from which to shed light on the importance of equitable and inclusive digital futures, trust-based philanthropy and inclusive co-design.  Inclusive co-design being a thread that is constant throughout Shane’s career — he has always been passionate about ensuring everyone has a voice.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. For information on more than 150 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship, visit our website at Lidji.org

 

Ahead of World Refugee Day on 20th June 2023, Emma Cherniavsky, UK CEO of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) joins us to discuss the refugee and displaced persons crisis.

Emma explains that World Refugee Day is a time to celebrate what refugees have brought to our countries, societies and communities. It’s a time to celebrate the courage,  resilience, and extraordinary contributions of refugees and displaced persons.

This episode provides context of the refugee and displaced persons crisis across the globe and highlights the importance of changing the negative narratives often projected in the media.

We shed light on the work of the UNHCR, both on the front lines and in host countries -- ranging from emergency, humanitarian aid to long-term initiatives focused on education, employability, and inclusion.

Our conversation also explores the wide range of partnerships with NGOs, government and other sectors in support of UNHCR’s work, and we pay specific attention to the increasing importance and relevance of the private sector in helping drive this work forward.

We conclude on a positive note, shedding light on the immense levels of public generosity and provide a range of ways in which folks can get involved.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

We explore the merger between Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation, which resulted in the creation of Asthma + Lung UK.  

We look at the pros and cons, the opportunities and the headaches that Sarah Woolnough has been coping with and driving forward as CEO of Asthma + Lung UK.

Sarah provides a truly candid view and this episode is particularly useful for anyone contemplating, managing or wishing to learn about mergers within the non-profit space.  

From branding and governance to CRM systems and auditing, you’ll find this interview informative and full of actionable suggestions.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

The CEO of Kokoro, Jules Chappell, talks about their strategic work connecting, scaling and championing support of mental health.

By 2035, they want to see global momentum behind a shared understanding of what a mentally healthy world looks like. Leaders will have the evidence for how positive mental health contributes to our individual, collective and planetary health, and will be taking action against agreed targets and milestones.

This episode is for anyone who’s keen on learning more about mental health, discovering a network of funders in this area, and understanding some of the key ways to get involved and make a difference.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

New Year's Special: Thoughts on Strategy, Fundraising and the Search for Talent. Have a listen and it just might make your 2025 even brighter.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

 

A New Year's special episode featuring key takeaways from some of the fascinating guests who joined us on The Do One Better! Podcast during 2020, including:

• Fran Perrin - Chair of 360Giving

• Sir David King - Former UK Government's permanent Special Representative for Climate Change

• Per Heggenes - CEO of the IKEA Foundation

• John Goodwin - CEO of the LEGO Foundation

• Ben Davies - Executive Director of the Johnson & Johnson Foundation

• Tony Nader - CEO of Transcendental Meditation organisations

• Craig Silverstein & Mary Obelnicki - Co-founders of Echidna Giving and signatories of the Giving Pledge. Craig was Google's first-ever employee

• Tariq Al Gurg - CEO of Dubai Cares

• Sandro Giuliani - Board Trustee of the Roger Federer Foundation

• Brian Gallagher - President & CEO of United Way Worldwide

• Howard Taylor - Executive Director of the Global Partnership to End Violence Against Children

• Anurag Banerjee - Co-Founder of Quilt.AI

• Matt Reed and Tinni Sawhney - CEOs of Aga Khan Foundation in UK and India

• Jeffrey Abramson - Co-founder of the Rona and Jeffrey Abramson Foundation

• Edwin Macharia - Global Managing Partner of Dalberg Advisors

• Mabel van Oranje - Founder of Girls Not Brides

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website to listen to the full episodes with the above guests and nearly 100 episodes with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

Thank you for making The Do One Better! Podcast such a success in 2020. Happy New Year!

 

Andy Jarvis, the Director of Future of Food at the Bezos Earth Fund, delves into the critical role food systems play in both exacerbating and potentially alleviating the twin crises of climate change and biodiversity loss. The Bezos Earth Fund, established with a $10 billion commitment from Jeff Bezos, aims to address these global challenges by 2030, with a strong emphasis on equity and environmental justice.

This episode showcases some truly innovative initiatives being supported by the Fund and unpacks how the Fund is tackling the enormous environmental footprint of the current food system, which is responsible for a significant portion of global emissions and land use.

A major focus is placed on the challenges and opportunities within livestock production, identified as a key driver of both emissions and land use. Andy elucidates the Fund's strategic approach to transforming livestock systems to meet the nutritional needs of a growing global population, while also safeguarding the planet. This involves exploring innovative solutions and partnerships aimed at reducing the environmental impact of food production and consumption.

The conversation touches on the interconnected nature of food systems, emphasising the complexity of making meaningful changes within this global network. Andy's insights reveal the importance of considering the entire food system, from supply chains to consumer behaviour, in efforts to achieve a sustainable future.

This episode not only highlights the critical work being undertaken by the Bezos Earth Fund but also underscores the urgency of addressing food sustainability as a cornerstone of climate action and biodiversity conservation. Listeners are invited to contemplate the profound implications of their food choices and the innovative paths forward in creating a sustainable and equitable food future.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

 

Anita sheds light on Facebook’s COVID Information Center, where people can access authoritative information about COVID-19 vaccines, and she goes on to explain how they have been partnering with the World Health Organisation (WHO), non-profit organisations and governments around the world to make sure there is accurate and credible information for people about COVID-19 vaccines.

The discussion also delves into Facebook’s work around blood donations in more than 29 countries and how the platform has facilitated $5 billion in donations for good causes.  Anita provides a candid look at social good campaigns at truly global scale.

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website at Lidji.org for a full transcript of this episode.  Please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others — thank you!

 

As we celebrate our 200th episode we bring you insights from Siya Kolisi, David Lynch, David Miliband, Paul Polman, Julia Gillard, Bob Moritz, Cherie Blair and Keith Barr.

Let’s not be daunted by the scale of the challenge. Things are only unmanageable if we don’t manage them.  We should find purpose and work for more than just ourselves.

Thank you for downloading the 200th episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for insightful case studies and interviews on philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

Bernhard is the Head of the UN World Food Programme Innovation Accelerator, which he created in 2015. 

We explore the work of the Innovation Accelerator and the World Food Programme (WFP) more broadly. The WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, with 20,000 staff worldwide, working in more than 120 countries — saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability and prosperity, for people recovering from conflict, disasters and the impact of climate change.

The Innovation Accelerator sources, nurtures and scales start-ups and nonprofits working to achieve Zero Hunger, and has run 18 accelerator programmes for external partners, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Humanitarian Grand Challenge, and other UN Agencies, with more planned.

This is a great episode for anyone who has an entrepreneurial spirit and is eager to tackle social impact challenges by leveraging innovation and technology.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

The CEO of the Africa Venture Philanthropy Alliance (AVPA), Frank Aswani, joins Alberto Lidji to discuss creating an impact ecosystem in Africa and to explore the continuum of impact capital, from traditional philanthropy to private sector capital.

A key challenge AVPA is focused on: How to solve Africa’s long-term sustainable growth financing challenge.

We explore the evolving role of philanthropy, as it moves beyond traditional grant-making and embraces a catalytic investing mindset where philanthropic assets are viewed as risk-capital. We also consider the role of philanthropists, which is key to unlocking more private capital and attracting it into the social impact space.

Whether you’re a philanthropist or engaged with corporate foundations, private equity, venture capital, government or non-profits, this episode will enlighten and enthuse you.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

 

Siya came from a challenging and humble background and, in 2018, became the first Black test player appointed Captain of the Springboks — South Africa’s national rugby team. In 2019, Siya led his team to Rugby World Cup victory.

Rachel brings a long-standing passion to serve individuals and communities across South Africa. From as early as 1990, Rachel has been involved in charitable and community development projects which have brought about transformation for many different communities.

Siya and Rachel co-founded the Kolisi Foundation exactly a year ago and are already making a huge impact in South Africa, tackling gender based violence, alleviating the hardships caused by COVID-19 and convening diverse stakeholders.

The Foundation has provided sustainable food parcels to more than 25,000 families and provided hygiene products to front-line health workers nationally, in partnership with The Nelson Mandela Foundation.

In this candid and warm conversation, both Siya and Rachel speak with great passion and articulate the nature of their work very clearly. We learn from both of them about the contexts that shaped their thinking, the challenging realities they’ve witnessed and how they’re leveraging their high-profile voices to convene partners, change attitudes and make a difference. 

For a full transcript of this fascinating conversation, visit The Do One Better! Podcast website at Lidji.org  — Download 100+ episodes in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Please click the ‘subscribe’ button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others. Thank you!

 

 

Safeena Husain founded Educate Girls in 2007 and today they operate in more than 20,000 villages across three states in India.

They’re mobilising communities in the most marginalised and remote areas to get out-of-school girls back into school and ensure they stay in school and are actually learning.

They’ve grown at a fast pace and today have a team of 2,200 full time employees and 15,000 volunteers.

Under Safeena’s leadership, and in conjunction with the UBS Optimus Foundation and Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIFF), they launched the first development impact bond (DIB). This was a highly innovative approach to align performance with funding.

Educate Girls was the service provider; CIFF was the outcome payer (who were purchasing two results: (1) getting out-of-school girls back into school and staying in school, and (2) ensuring learning outcomes); and the UBS Optimus Foundation was the social investor. 

We hear the ins and outs of what turned out to be a highly successful initiative.  Educate Girls took the risk of performance, UBS took the financial risk and CIFF got to purchase the impact. 

We also hear how Educate Girls was the first Asian organisation to become an Audacious Project — an initiative run by TED that brings philanthropists together to collaborate and back really innovative, big bets that improve the world.

The COVID-19 pandemic is severely impacting girls and women, and Safeena's view is that if action isn’t taken it could well set girls’ education back by a decade, if not more, so let's work together to get out-of-school girls back into school!

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. For information on nearly 150 other interviews, please visit our website at Lidji.org

If you enjoy the show, please subscribe and follow, share with others and leave us a review and rating. Thank you very much!

 

The UK Supreme Court’s CEO, Vicky Fox, sheds light into her fascinating work and a range of initiatives focused on community outreach, education, and driving forward more diversity, accessibility and transparency.

Many people do not know the UK Supreme Court has a CEO and, indeed, many other countries' top courts also have CEOs. The Court does much international work and Vicky has met her counterparts in the USA, Canada, France, and Germany.

Vicky is in charge of all the non-judicial functions of the Court, including the running of an effective and efficient court, taking into account the lifecycle of a case – from the minute it enters their doors to the minute it leaves.

The Court runs a range of programmes to engage with communities. One such programme is called ‘Ask a Justice’ where a justice shows up in a classroom virtually and answers questions from students for an hour, leading to thoughtful, challenging, provocative interactions.

We also learn of their drive to encourage more diversity in the legal profession. The Court’s initiatives address the entire career pipeline, from schools and universities to very senior, experienced judges.  They work in partnership with many organisations, including a charity called ‘Bridging the Bar’, focusing on helping underrepresented groups into the legal profession.

Listen to this episode for some great insight and inspiration!

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

In 2020, they are celebrating their 70th birthday. World Vision International operates in most countries across the world and is a $3 billion organisation focused on ending violence against children in all its forms and supporting children, particularly in some of the most challenging countries, such as the DRC and Syria.

 

While World Vision is a Christian organisation, they serve those of all faiths and of no faith at all. They’re structured globally by setting up separate legal entities in the countries where they operate (such as World Vision South Africa) — these entities all agree to work in partnership with all the other World Vision entities around the world. They also work with delivery partners in local settings. Many of World Vision’s in-country team leaders come up from local communities, as opposed to being expats placed there from overseas.

 

Andrew sheds light on World Vision International’s funding.  Their primary funding is derived through their child sponsorship model.  This is a model that aims to develop communities — not just the individual child but also the communities where that child lives. 

 

Since they are a $3 billion organisation, they are fortunate in having adequate resources to withstand a shock such as that posed by COVID-19. Part of the reason why their funding streams are robust is the strong link between sponsors and the children and communities where these children live.

 

We also hear of Andrew’s career trajectory. He started off in the private sector and only later on in life moved into the non-profit world. He was always selling things from an early stage in his childhood and, then, also as a teenager.  The idea of marketing was something he was passionate about. Then, at 30, he had a powerful coming to faith moment and felt a calling to become a Christian. His life turned around at that point. At the time he was working for Sky TV as sales and marketing director — he recalls how back then he was the youngest executive on their Management Board.  

 

He stayed in the corporate world for 20 years, spending time at high profile organisations, such as Google and Motorola Mobility.  In 2017, he was ordained as an Anglican Vicar in St Paul’s Cathedral. Now, alongside his work at World Vision International, on Sunday mornings Andrew serves at a London church called Holy Trinity Brompton. He loves combining the two.

 

We hear how transitioning from the corporate world to the non-profit world is not that straight forward. The remuneration is much different and in the non-profit world everything is about excellence at a minimum cost, while in the corporate world it is about excellence at an acceptable cost. In the non-profit world, funding decisions often impact whether a child goes hungry or not. Andrew advises the audience: if you feel pulled towards the non-profit world, then go ahead and give it a try.

 

One of the major programmes at World Vision is focused on ending violence against children. Andrew notes how lockdown and COVID-19 have meant that children are at home more, and they’re away from the protective environment of school and are often not given access to the adults who might protect them. So, the risk of violence against children is exacerbated.

 

When asked what success for the next 10 years looks like to him, Andrew answers that he’d love to see an end of extreme poverty in all its forms by 2030. He’s optimistic and explains that despite the backwards steps in economic indicators due to COVID-19, what we’ve also learned from this pandemic is that when people come together and have a common goal that we can achieve lots.  He’d also like to see an end of violence against children in all its forms and have World Vision play its part in making that happen. 

 

Andrew’s key takeaway: Think about how your life is having an impact on the world, and ask yourself what you want your legacy to be. Most of us want to have a legacy that makes the world better in some way, so think about how you can do that. Have the belief that you can make a difference.

 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for guest bios, episode notes and useful links. Please subscribe on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others. Thank you!

 

In this episode we focus on the power of regenerative agriculture and why you, as a consumer, can literally eat your way to a better world.

We speak with Angus McIntosh, who is better known in South Africa as 'Farmer Angus'. He grew up on a cattle ranch in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Studied Management Accounting at Stellenbosch University before stockbroking for Goldman Sachs in London. Declined the offer of promotion, left his job and moved to South Africa. Built a clay home with inspiration from various people on the way leading to him to eventually become a biodynamic student, grass farmer and carbon sequestrator.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on more than 150 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. We invite you to follow us and leave us a review to help others find this show.

 

ACEVO is a network of more than 1,400 CEOs and aspiring chief executives based in the UK. They represent members from organisations across all sizes. They are a charity themselves and aim to ensure the leaders they serve are able to make the most impact possible. They support leaders and, in turn, these leaders inspire their own organisations. ACEVO helps CEOs be the best they can be.

Vicky sheds light on how ACEVO’s members are responding to COVID-19 – a crisis that is stretching many charities to the limit. She notes there are serious concerns and, indeed, demand for charities’ services has gone through the roof. At the same time, many fundraising and income streams have been negatively impacted.  Yet, there is much hope and much consideration in the sector for how we can build back better.

ACEVO has actually weathered this pandemic quite well. They have had to shift all their events on to digital platforms but that has led to good engagement. Whereas before they were convening their members through 50 different in-person events annually, now they’re doing approximately four weekly events using digital platforms. Engagement with their members has increased, as have their membership renewal rates. Members see the value of being part of this community of CEOs and aspiring leaders at this time of crisis.

On 17th June 2020, ACEVO have a report on racism coming out called ‘Home Truths’. They have been working on this report for more than a year in conjunction with a partner organisation called ‘Voice for Change England’.

The report looks at racism within the charity sector. Its insight is derived through various sources and methods: by talking to people from Black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) backgrounds who work in the charity sector; surveying more than 500 people; conducting in-depth interviews with people from diverse backgrounds; and holding roundtable conversations.

Vicky notes that the experiences BAME individuals have while working in the UK charity sector are often not good. This report aims to understand exactly what BAME individuals are experiencing in this sector and how best to address the problems highlighted.  The report is called ‘Home Truths’ because it delivers some fairly robust truth to, particularly, white leaders in the sector about how the sector is falling short in areas of equity and inclusion.

Vicky notes the problem is not just an absence of BAME people in the charity sector but, also, that those who are in this sector are often not having a positive experience. She also notes that, historically, organisations serving BAME communities are underserved in the funding arena.

During the podcast she also sheds light on ACEVO’s work and coalitions with other organisations who represent this sector, such as the Association of Charitable Foundations (ACF). Interestingly, she notes there is room to explore international coalitions.

Vicky’s key takeaway:  As leaders we need to imagine better to create a better world, so let’s not be limited in our imagination for what things could be, let’s think big and then work collectively to move towards achieving some of those bigger, bolder visions.

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Let’s transform education systems by reigniting intrinsic motivation! The Chair and CEO of STiR Education, Jo Owen and Girish Menon, explain why motivation is key to success.

STiR Education operates in India and Uganda, they’ve recently started a program in Indonesia and are currently in discussions with the education ministry in Ethiopia.  Brazil is being explored.

They’ve been funded by some of the world’s leading foundations, including MacArthur Foundation, IKEA Foundation, Dubai Cares, ELMA Foundation and UBS Optimus.

We hear how intrinsic motivation needs to run across entire education systems and without it even the most targeted education interventions are at increased risk of failure. 

Jo Owen and Girish Menon provide excellent insight and vivid examples to inform, inspire and help you make a bigger impact.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. For information on more than 150 interviews with thought leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship visit our website at Lidji.org

 

 

The Centre for Strategic Philanthropy was founded by Badr Jafar and is based at Judge Business School at the University of Cambridge.  It was launched in June 2020 and is focused on emerging markets, with particular concern for the Middle East, Africa and Southeast Asia. Its geographic focus is something that sets the Centre apart from other academic outfits in the field of philanthropy.

They have three core pillars of activity: (1) they are a research centre, (2) will provide executive education commencing in early 2021, and (3) are a convening platform bringing together diverse voices, especially from the Global South.  

Clare provides insight into philanthropy in emerging markets and delves into some of the findings from their recently-published report Philanthropy and COVID-19: Is the North-South Power Balance Finally Shifting?

There is tremendous growth of philanthropy in the Global South and Clare explains how young philanthropists are increasingly moving away from establishing a straight forward foundation and, instead, are starting to consider alternative routes to doing good, such as creating an impact fund or starting a social enterprise.  

The Centre wants to help new, up-and-coming philanthropists to deliver more impact at scale, and to do so collaboratively.  They convene, attract new voices from diverse countries and encourage collaboration. 

Part of the rationale for Badr Jafar’s founding of the Centre for Strategic Philanthropy was the lack of existing research into philanthropy in the Global South.  When asked what success for the next 10 years looks like, Clare replies that she’d like to see the Centre fill research gaps as much as possible, develop a better understanding of the landscape and have more robust data. Moreover, there is also a need to determine and showcase what best practice looks like.

Clare’s key takeaway: It’s about insuring that good intentions translate into impact. We really need to look at the evidence around what works and what doesn’t work. She cautions that before rushing in to create a programme or an intervention, one should really try to look at who’s already working in the space in question and aim to collaborate if possible. Yes, bring your passion, but be aware that intentions need to be matched by evidence.

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Crisis on the Frontline: A Closer Look at the WFP’s Expanding Challenges

Geraldine O’Callaghan, Director of the World Food Programme's Global Office, sheds light on the profound challenges faced by the WFP as the gap between global hunger needs and available resources widens significantly.

With operations in 120 countries, the WFP is confronted with a staggering increase in hunger, exacerbated by economic turmoil, escalating conflicts, and the relentless impacts of climate change.

Geraldine details how these factors have driven a nearly threefold increase in the number of people facing acute food insecurity over the past five years. Despite the WFP’s efforts to expand its reach, the organization now struggles to meet less than half of the global hunger needs, forcing tough decisions on the ground.

This discussion underscores the urgency of rethinking how the international community responds to crises, emphasizing the necessity for more sustainable and anticipatory action.

 

Innovative Approaches: Embracing New Solutions Amidst Dire Straits

While the global hunger situation appears increasingly dire, Geraldine O’Callaghan brings attention to the importance of innovation and creative funding solutions. She discusses how the WFP is exploring partnerships with non-traditional donors, including Gulf States and the private sector, to diversify and stabilize funding sources.

Geraldine also highlights the promising role of technology and innovation in addressing food security, from AI and early warning systems to simple yet impactful solutions like climate-resistant crops and organic waste recycling.

The conversation pivots from the bleakness of the current global landscape to a more hopeful perspective, where innovative approaches could significantly improve the efficiency and impact of the WFP’s efforts. This exploration into cutting-edge strategies and partnerships offers a glimpse of potential pathways to closing the gap between needs and resources.

 

A New Vision: The Long-Term Perspective on Global Food Security

Wrapping up the conversation, Geraldine reflects on her extensive experience in the development sector and stresses the need for a shift towards long-term, strategic interventions. She argues that the traditional short-term, reactive responses to humanitarian crises are no longer sufficient. Instead, there must be a focus on building resilience within vulnerable communities and integrating anticipatory action into the international response framework.

Geraldine’s call for embracing risk, tolerating failure, and investing in long-term solutions, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, serves as a powerful takeaway for listeners. Her vision is clear: sustainable change in global food security will only be achieved through a courageous commitment to long-term planning and innovation, even when immediate outcomes are less visible.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

Tim Dixon, Co-Founder of More in Common: Bridging Divides in a Polarized World. 

Tim discusses the organization's core mission to understand and address the growing polarization in societies worldwide. Through their innovative approach, More in Common leverages the insights of social psychology and extensive public opinion research. Their aim is to unravel the complex dynamics of societal attitudes.

Tim shares his personal journey that led to the creation of More in Common, highlighting a pivotal moment marked by the tragic murder of a close friend and colleague. This personal loss ignited his commitment to dedicating a significant part of his career to tackling societal divides. He emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the often-sensationalized public perception and the nuanced reality on contentious issues. This gap, he notes, is evident in how the public perceives topics like immigration and refugee acceptance, which is frequently misaligned with the headlines.

A significant part of the conversation revolves around the approach to finding solutions to these divides. Tim underscores the essential role of leadership across various sectors in steering conversations and policies away from polarized and binary viewpoints. He advocates for a more evidence-based, practical approach that challenges prevailing misconceptions and promotes constructive dialogue.

Tim stresses the power of curiosity and listening in overcoming polarization. By encouraging open and respectful dialogues between people with opposing views, he believes that common ground can be found. This approach is not just about resolving conflicts but about understanding the underlying values and motivations that drive people's opinions and attitudes.

Tim highlights the critical need for leaders who can navigate through these polarized times and offer hope and practical solutions. He shares compelling examples of how changing perceptions and fostering hope can significantly impact public attitudes and willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. Tim’s insights offer a hopeful perspective on addressing one of the most pressing issues of our time - societal polarization.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

Jim McCormick, CEO of the Robertson Trust, discusses the organization's move into impact investing while maintaining its core mission of combating poverty and trauma in Scotland.

Founded in 1961 from the philanthropic efforts of the Robertson sisters, the Trust has a rich history of community support, primarily funded through dividends from the family's globally renowned whisky business, Edrington, which includes brands such as The Macallan and Highland Park.

McCormick delves into the Trust's multifaceted approach, likening it to a layer cake, with foundational grant-making supporting a range of causes, from micro-grants to significant investments, and a scholarship program aimed at breaking down barriers to higher education. He highlights the Trust's evolving objectives, emphasizing capacity building and policy to create sustainable change.

The episode focuses on the Trust's move into impact investing, aiming to leverage capital to address the roots of poverty and trauma. The Trust seeks to explore blended finance opportunities, going beyond traditional grants to foster innovative solutions in partnership with experienced investors.

McCormick outlines the Trust's key thematic areas: financial security, education pathways, fair work, and emotional well-being, and shares his vision for creating investable propositions that tackle these complex issues. He also discusses the challenges and opportunities of the Scottish market and the importance of being an informed and proactive investor.

As the Trust embarks on this new journey, McCormick invites listeners to share insights and join in their mission to create lasting change. 

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

CEO of Transcendental Meditation organisations, Dr Tony Nader, joins Alberto Lidji to discuss the TM movement, how to start practising TM and why it can benefit your mental and physical wellbeing.

 

Tony sheds light on his personal journey, from PhD research on cognitive sciences at MIT to leading the Transcendental Meditation Programme across the globe.  He explains how this simple technique can give you energy, strength and make you feel rejuvenated.

 

We hear what makes TM unique and learn some of the overarching principles that underpin it. For those who are curious, there is an explanation of what practising TM actually looks like and why it has the potential to improve mental and physical wellbeing. 

 

Tony is clear that TM is not a religion, nor a philosophy, nor a belief system and, indeed, there are individuals from all faiths who practise TM.

 

Transcendental Meditation was launched in the mid-1950s by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. And, while many people may associate TM with celebrities, Tony remarks that TM has a presence in most countries around the world and has 12 million people practising it. He describes it as a grassroots organisation – a big family that is open to everyone.

 

Tony’s key takeaway: we are fullness within; every one of us is wholeness. And, there is something very beautiful, very deep within ourselves. It is our consciousness that is an expanded field of being that we can reach, that we can experience; know the beauty of who we are, know ourselves and the real depth of what we are and live life in fullness and wholeness and perfection. This is the birthright of every human being. And, it is not a hope or a wish, it can be achieved systematically, scientifically and repeatedly.

 

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Liesel Pritzker Simmons brings us into the origins of the IDP Foundation, which she co-founded with her mother, Irene Pritzker.

The foundation’s mission: To participate in building a sustainable education ecosystem that embraces a mixed economy of provision, and caters for all children through access to finance for low-fee private schools, quality interventions and advocacy in Africa and beyond.

Corina Gardner joined the IDP Foundation as its CEO in 2020 and she starts by providing a broader context on the state of global education (SDG4) and how they’re driving systemic change.

The IDP Foundation is an active funder and champion for the complementary role that the non-state education sector plays in supporting national education systems.  

Governments are responsible for providing quality free education for all children, however in many developing countries this is not happening, despite often meeting, or exceeding, recommended UNESCO benchmarks on budget allocation.

As a funding partner and champion of the affordable non-state education sector (ANS), the IDP Foundation believes that low-fee private schools play a crucial role in increasing access to education and improving learning outcomes in low and lower-middle income countries.

They call for the global recognition, integration and support of this sector as part of a centrally-governed mixed economy of provision that embraces all hands on deck to build resilience into national education systems.

This episode will inform and inspire you, from education and policy to philanthropy and innovative finance, there is something for everyone.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

The CEO of the Valuable 500, Katy Talikowska, advocates for synchronised collective action; using the power of business to drive lasting change for the 1.3 billion people around the world who are living with a disability.

The Valuable 500 is a collective of 500 businesses, representing 22 million employees,  chaired by Paul Polman, who are innovating for disability inclusion.

Through synchronised collective action, they are tackling three systems barriers:

(1) Lack of representation

(2) Lack of disability reporting

(3) Lack of disability in leadership

 

On 3rd December 2025, in Tokyo, they will host the Valuable 500 Accountability Summit, where they’ll convene their 500 companies to report on their progress against the above three synchronised collective actions.

At the Valuable 500, they won’t stop until everyone is seen and valued equally.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

Leslie Johnston, CEO of the Laudes Foundation, delivers an insightful exploration into the transformative work her organisation undertakes to combat climate change and foster a just transition to a sustainable and inclusive economy.

As the leader of a relatively young foundation founded in 2020, Leslie underscores the urgency of addressing the "polycrisis" of climate change, inequality, and economic upheaval. She delves into the foundation’s strategy of targeting industries with outsized impacts, such as fashion, the built environment, and food, to accelerate decarbonisation while prioritising equity and inclusion.

The concept of a just transition emerges as a recurring theme in Leslie’s commentary. She emphasises the importance of ensuring that communities and workers — particularly those who have contributed least to the climate crisis but are most vulnerable to its effects — are central to solutions. In practical terms, this involves advocating for worker rights, building resilience within supply chains, and fostering collaboration among businesses, governments, and civil society.

Leslie highlights examples like Bangladesh, where fashion industry workers face existential threats from rising sea levels, stressing the need for place-based strategies that empower individuals and provide pathways for economic opportunity.

Leslie also addresses the strikingly small percentage of global philanthropy — approximately 2% — that is allocated to climate philanthropy. She challenges the philanthropic sector to adopt a systemic lens, leveraging its resources to influence policy, catalyse private investment, and spur industry transformation.

By funding visionary nonprofits and creating platforms like the Fashion for Good and Built by Nature initiatives, the foundation has successfully convened stakeholders to tackle issues like carbon reduction in supply chains and promoting sustainable building practices.

Partnerships play a pivotal role in these efforts, as Leslie explains. She outlines the foundation's collaborative work with organisations such as the IKEA Foundation to establish Assemble, a donor collaborative focused on decarbonising the built environment, and its involvement in the Just Transition Donor Alliance. These initiatives aim to break down silos among funders, foster learning, and amplify collective impact.

Leslie also touches on the need for innovative financial mechanisms to mobilise the trillions required annually for global decarbonisation. She advocates for tailored financial products, public-private partnerships, and policy interventions to unlock investment at scale. Furthermore, she highlights the importance of sharing knowledge and best practices, pointing to initiatives like the Just Transition Finance Lab at the London School of Economics, which creates tools to guide investors and policymakers.

In her concluding remarks, Leslie encourages individuals to recognise their agency in driving change through conscious consumer choices and urges philanthropic leaders to integrate a climate lens into all aspects of their work. Solving the climate crisis requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, with philanthropy playing a catalytic role in creating a sustainable and equitable future.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

 

Get a behind-the-scenes look at how ‘the Squirrels’ came about and how the programme is providing 4 and 5 year olds with skills for life when it matters most by promoting key skills like working together, communication and language, as well as creativity and community awareness.

Gain insight from an in-depth conversation covering the entire journey of how the Squirrels went from initial concept to successful funding, evidence-based piloting, execution and meaningful scale. 

We hear of the many challenges that had to be overcome, the funding sources that were tapped and the diverse stakeholders who were brought on board to make this initiative a success.

Thank you for downloading this episode. For information on nearly 150 interviews with remarkable thought-leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship visit our website at Lidji.org

 

Ella Gudwin, CEO of VisionSpring, offers an exploration of how access to affordable eyeglasses is not merely a matter of health but a transformative lever for economic development, productivity, and individual well-being. VisionSpring’s innovative hybrid model exemplifies the intersection of philanthropy and social enterprise, as it tackles one of the most pervasive yet solvable challenges in global health: the lack of access to eyeglasses for over one billion people worldwide.

Gudwin emphasises the cascading effects of impaired vision in low-income settings, where individuals struggle to perform basic tasks, pursue education, and sustain livelihoods. She describes how VisionSpring reframes eyeglasses not only as a health intervention but also as a vital tool for economic empowerment. The organisation’s efforts focus on overcoming both supply- and demand-side barriers, ensuring glasses are accessible, affordable, and desirable.   Central to this mission are the findings from groundbreaking studies. For instance, a 2018 randomised control trial with tea pickers demonstrated a 22% increase in productivity (and 32% for those over 50) after receiving basic near-vision spectacles. More recently, the Thrive Study in Bangladesh revealed a 33% rise in median monthly income for first-time eyeglasses wearers across diverse occupations. These results highlight the immense return on investment in vision correction, with life-changing impacts achieved at minimal cost.   Gudwin underscores the importance of scaling solutions through partnerships, task-sharing frameworks, and global strategies like SPECS 2030 — a coordinated effort launched by the World Health Organization to close the clear vision gap. She outlines VisionSpring’s role in training over 25,000 community health workers and embedding vision services into primary care systems, demonstrating that solutions need not rely exclusively on optometrists, who are in short supply globally.   Beyond accessibility, Gudwin stresses the critical task of generating demand. Misconceptions and stigma often deter people from using eyeglasses, especially in communities where glasses are seen as elitist or unnecessary. Addressing these cultural and psychological barriers, VisionSpring is working to normalise eyeglasses as essential tools, akin to sewing machines for tailors or seeds for farmers. The organisation’s commitment to “no more poor glasses for poor people” is manifest in its recent launch of stylish, affordable frames that respect individual dignity and preferences.  

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Philippa Charles, Director of the Garfield Weston Foundation, provides an insider’s view into one of the UK’s most impactful philanthropic organisations. Philippa shares the foundation’s approach to granting nearly £100 million annually, emphasising their blend of empathy, flexibility, and strategic funding that characterises their work.

The Garfield Weston Foundation, established in 1958 by Willard Garfield Weston, has grown significantly over the years. It dedicates its resources to supporting charities across the UK, demonstrating an exceptional commitment to societal improvement rooted in family values. Philippa discusses the foundation’s willingness to accept unsolicited applications and its focus on capacity building, partnerships, and research, underlining the organisation's open and responsive nature.

The foundation’s work is powered by a deep sense of family-driven purpose, enabling it to support a wide array of charitable endeavours effectively.

Philippa reflects on the foundation's commitment to responding to the most compelling needs across the UK without strict thematic restrictions. This philosophy ensures the foundation remains a versatile and impactful supporter of the country's charitable sector, embodying the spirit of philanthropy that Garfield Weston envisioned.

This episode offers profound insights into the Garfield Weston Foundation's dedication to making a difference through a thoughtful, family-oriented approach to philanthropy, showcasing the power of flexibility, empathy, and strategic funding in fostering positive societal change.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

The Foundation was founded in 2003 and focuses on school readiness; they invest approximately 10m Swiss Francs (roughly US $10m at the time of writing) annually supporting children to transition into school.

UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4.2 is a key reference for their work, aspiring to ensure that by 2030: all girls and boys have access to quality early childhood development, care and pre-primary education so that they are ready for primary education.

Geographically, the Foundation works across six countries in Africa – Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe – and also in Switzerland.  Roger’s mother is South African and his father is Swiss.

When asked what it’s like to work with Roger, Sandro replies that it’s pretty cool.  Roger is running the Foundation strategically and is very hands on. For Sandro, it’s not just about working with someone who’s very high profile, it’s also a matter of working with a philanthropist who truly wants to transform children’s lives for the better. It’s a lot of fun and a privilege; it is incredibly rewarding.

We hear how the Foundation has a strong executive team and is very lean. There are only around three team members based in Switzerland and another three based in South Africa. Their CEO is Janine Händel, who has been with the Foundation from the outset.

The Foundation’s approach is community based; they work with teachers through their partner organisations (the Foundation is not an implementing organisation); they work with local partners directly in the local communities they serve and have reached more than one and a half million children.

Sandro notes the Foundation is working on an innovative project right now called the ‘Early Learning Kiosk’, which is a tablet-based app that is used by pre-primary educators to train themselves; and it also helps teachers assess a child’s development.   It is easy to scale since it is a tablet-based solution.  They are currently testing the Early Learning Kiosk with 5,000 teachers; and we hear how it was developed with universities and local partners. Even though the Early Learning Kiosk is currently being tested, it is already available for download for anyone who wishes to sample it. Once testing is completed, the Foundation aims to scale it and deploy it across Africa. The Early Learning Kiosk is available for download on both Apple and Android tablets.

Sandro adds that the Foundation is in an enviable position, whereby they can combine rigorous testing and innovation with a strong brand name and a personality that can engage effectively with policymakers.  First they focus on excellence and then they use the power of Roger to promote their work.

During these challenging times with COVID-19, the Foundation aims to ensure that teachers learn, maintain and increase their competence while in remote areas.  There is a focus on teacher workforce and quality; and they need to use technology to strengthen the role of the teacher; not to replace the teacher. 

Sandro remarks that this is an exciting platform for scale; to reach millions of kids through various partners who are active throughout Africa.  The development of the Early Learning Kiosk at the beginning was in collaboration with Hansjörg Wyss, one of the biggest Swiss philanthropists.

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We explore the importance of making the latest evidence on children's rights and wellbeing accessible to a broad audience, strengthening and framing key arguments by using the most engaging language and communicating with policymakers and politicians so they make informed budgetary and voting decisions.

The Institute for Inspiring Children’s Futures works with diverse partners, including the OECD, Unicef and the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, and engages with policymakers and politicians internationally.

They aim to ensure children facing adversity have what they need to reach their full potential, and much of their focus is on children who come into contact with the justice system.

Despite the fact that the wellbeing of children is an important indicator of the future stability of society and prosperity of the economy, there is still far to go to ensure children’s rights are realised.

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This conversation provides great insight into a public / private partnership with a strong philanthropic underpinning that simultaneously drives forward human development and wildlife conservation at scale — within a challenging context that in recent years has included conflict, local fighting, a commodities crash, a currency devaluation and a massive cyclone. 

 

A focus on forestry, ecotourism and agribusiness has resulted in robust social enterprise activities that  incorporate local communities while helping tackle climate change. 

 

There are 200,000 people around Gorongosa National Park and 80% of them are subsistence farmers living on under $2 a day. They are vulnerable to malnutrition, poor education and other challenges. 

 

Creating small businesses, helping with skills and fostering greater access to finance helps establish the ‘enabling’ conditions that transform livelihoods for the long term.

 

Matt’s key takeaway: Be part of something that creates a world where people and planet thrive together! 

 

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Canopy is focused on protecting the world’s forests, species, climate and helping advance community rights.  They do this by harnessing the power of the marketplace.

 

Nicole launched Canopy 20 years ago with a small budget of $1,800. Today, they work with 750 large corporate customers, including H&M, Zara and Kimberly-Clark by helping them to develop and implement environmental policies.

 

They aim to change behaviours at a societal level. They approach this by working with the top 1,000 to 2,000 senior decision-makers who work within clothing companies, e-retailers and publishers.

 

The sheer size and purchasing power of the companies these individuals work for means they have incredible economic and political influence to incentivise forestry companies and governments to change business-as-usual practice. 

 

Nicole notes that Canopy is probably best known for ‘greening’ the Harry Potter series, which we hear was a lot of fun to do. 

 

Back in the early 2000s, they were working with Raincoast Books – the Canadian publisher of Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the 5th instalment of the series. They worked to get the book published on environmental paper – free from ancient and endangered forest fibre.  Nicole underscores that both JK Rowling and her agent were very supportive of the initiative.

 

Then, fast-forward to the 7th book in the Harry Potter series where the book was printed on environmental paper in 24 countries and became the greenest book in publishing history.

 

The sheer volume of this endeavour provided proof to the industry that you really could publish high volume work on environmentally friendly paper.

 

Canopy’s work also tackles fast fashion, and the environmental and social footprint of the whole fashion industry. We hear how fashion is a major driver of deforestation and forest degradation. There are 200 million trees today disappearing into fashion annually; into viscose, into rayon, and modal fabrics. And this number is slated to double within the next decade.

 

Canopy have been proactive in engaging with industry leaders and they started reaching out to brands and designers, icons within the fashion industry: Stella McCartney, H&M, Eileen Fisher, Levis – working with them to develop environmental policies that commit to eliminating the use of viscose and rayon fabrics originating from ancient and endangered forests and, also, to prioritise and help drive next-generation solutions.  

 

They publicly launched ‘Canopy Style’ six years ago and now have 213 brands on board that represent $260 billion in annual revenues. This has enabled them to get similar commitments from most of the world’s viscose producers and, consequently, enabled them to start transforming the industry. Canopy drives change through collective action and convening; they help corporate clients through key services such as developing policies, tools and systems.

 

Interestingly, Canopy does not enter into financial relationships with any of the brands they work with. They feel this helps protect the integrity of their work – they’re keen on long-term, transformational relationships. Nicole feels that when a cheque is slid across the table, the whole relationship can become more transactional. Therefore, Canopy relies on a more traditional philanthropy model whereby most of their income comes from Foundations (60%) and major donors (30%).

 

Nicole’s key takeaway: We’re at a critical junction as humanity. Our time is calling us to be more audacious and to take risks. We can’t just keep doing the same things and feel frustrated that we’re not shifting the dial fast enough. We have to be bolder and we need to be willing to be uncomfortable.

 

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Vikas is a repeat guest on The Do One Better! Podcast. He first came on the show in 2019 when he was heading the Varkey Foundation – the organisation behind the one million dollar Global Teacher Prize.

 

He is an education policy expert and in this episode Vikas talks about the upcoming inaugural World Education Week, taking place 5th to 9th in October, virtually. The event is organised by T4 and Vikas is driving it forward.

 

Vikas notes how the biggest lever of change we have in education is the teacher, so they’ve decided to have the inaugural World Education Week commence on 5th October, which is World Teacher Day.

 

A key driver behind all this is the need to accelerate progress in achieving UN Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4), which focuses on education.  The exciting thing is that digital platforms, such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, allow for new voices of folks to share experiences and share perspectives. It enhances debate and discussion.

 

Vikas explains that teachers trust teachers, and schools trust schools, so when a school leader speaks from their experience as to how they’ve done XYZ, the likelihood of other teachers in similar situations listening and taking note is much greater.

 

This is why they’re also organising  a ‘Global Showcase’ during World Education Week, where they have 100 schools from around the world that are going to demonstrate an area of expertise to others.

 

There are 5 areas they’re asking schools to consider: (1) the use of technology, (2) employability, entrepreneurship and the development of life skills, (3) deepening family and community engagement, (4) the science of learning and the science of teaching and (5) wellbeing.

 

The power of World Education Week is in its targeted approach. Vikas prompts listeners to keep in mind that events are a tool in one’s efforts to promote or take part in some sort of advocacy effort. In the case of World Education Week, it’s an important initiative to drive the conversation as to what is possible with regards to accelerating progress in SDG4, as opposed to merely having 100 events around the world on education.

 

Capturing of knowledge and making the conference freely available to people is important. By amplifying the teacher experience you really do change the discussion.  It’s important to make sure teachers are included.

 

Vikas also underscores the need to increase the social status most societies grant teachers. COVID-19 has in some ways prompted parents to recognise exactly how much work teachers do every single day; something that came into sharp focus as parents had to deliver home schooling during lockdown.

 

To achieve SDG4 by 2030 (the target year of the UN Sustainable Goals) we need 69 million new teachers to be brought into the profession.  Vikas remarks: How can you recruit so many teachers if we keep on treating teachers the way they’ve been treated thus far.

 

Vikas’ key takeaway: The parting thought is one that fills Vikas with hope and optimism, born out of seeing what happens in schools all around the world. There’s so much excellence in all parts of the world that by convening and bringing teachers and schools together we actually have for the first time, because of the use of digital communications platforms, the ability to influence schools in other parts of the world, and also in ours, to do a better job and to raise the standard of education, and that fills Vikas with a lot of hope.

 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for guest bios, episode notes and useful links. Please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others – thank you!

 

Learn how the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation is making an impact; helping non-profit organisations by advancing AI and data solutions to create a thriving, equitable, and sustainable future for all.

Claudia Juech is Vice President of Data and Society at the Patrick. J. McGovern Foundation and was Managing Director for Strategic Insights at the Rockefeller Foundation.

Her career has been all about using data for decision making – first in the financial sector in Germany and more recently at the Rockefeller Foundation, where she and her team used foresight approaches and innovation methodologies to identify the most promising ideas that could be shaped into the next $100M initiative. 

This episode will stimulate your thinking and provide you with tangible examples of how data can be leveraged to drive forward social good.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. For information on more than 150 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship, please visit our website at Lidji.org

 

 

On 4th October 2021, Pope Francis and leaders from other faiths gathered to appeal for robust commitments from political leaders in the run up to COP26 (2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference).

Chris Trott, the UK's ambassador to the Holy See, shares his views on the significance of this extraordinary gathering and its highly consequential nature.

The Pope has been a long-standing voice on matters pertaining to sustainability. In 2015, he issued an encyclical called Laudato si’ in which he called for care for our common home and decried environmental destruction.

On 25 September 2015, Pope Francis addressed the UN General Assembly and he made the appeal for a common plan for our common home. On that day, world leaders adopted Agenda 2030 and the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The UK is hosting COP26 right now and Chris Trott shares a unique insight into the importance of faith communities in helping drive positive change by advocating for responsible behaviour towards climate.

Economist Jeffrey Sachs, an expert in sustainable development, noted a few years back that “Pope Francis has been a champion, together with other religious leaders who are, of course looked to for guidance and admired worldwide within their faiths and well beyond their particular faiths, in helping the world to understand why sustainable development is the challenge of our time.”  

This episode of The Do One Better Podcast underscores this view and provides unique and timely insight during COP26 and in the face of the climate crisis.

Thank you for listening to The Do One Better Podcast. Please subscribe and leave a rating and review if you enjoy the show. For information on nearly 150 interviews with remarkable thought leaders, please visit the show’s website at Lidji.org

 

Valeria Scorza, CEO of Fundación Avina, offers a compelling exploration of how philanthropy can act as an orchestrator in addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing Latin America and the broader Global South. With a 30-year legacy of fostering sustainable development, Fundación Avina operates at the intersection of climate action, democratic innovation, and economic transformation, working through six key programs—climate, circular economy, labor innovation, biomes, democracy, and water. What sets the foundation apart is its commitment to building trust, promoting systemic change, and fostering co-creation among diverse stakeholders.

At its core, Fundación Avina embraces a decentralized model, with a team of 95 staff members across 15 countries, emphasizing coordination, autonomy, and self-regulation. Beyond simply deploying grants—having mobilized over $500 million across 13,000 initiatives—the foundation plays a catalytic role in multi-stakeholder collaborations, ensuring that local knowledge and grassroots organizations shape solutions tailored to their specific contexts. Expanding beyond Latin America, the organization is increasingly forging partnerships in Africa and Asia, reinforcing a philosophy that philanthropy must be complementary rather than prescriptive, engaging both grassroots actors and large institutions such as the Inter-American Development Bank.

A particularly striking element of Fundación Avina’s work is its long-standing engagement with access to water, an issue affecting nearly a quarter of Latin Americans, with rural communities being disproportionately impacted. Viewing water access as a fundamental human right, the foundation draws from the principles of Nobel laureate Elinor Ostrom, advocating for decentralized, community-led governance of shared resources. Through the Latin American Association of Community Water Management Organizations and other regional initiatives, Avina has helped scale innovative, locally-driven water management solutions, from rainwater harvesting to adaptive governance structures that enhance resilience in the face of climate change. The foundation’s work in Brazil’s semi-arid region, for example, illustrates the power of community networks in not only implementing practical solutions like cistern installations but also shaping public policy at the national level.

The conversation highlights key bottlenecks in water governance, including the misconception that solutions must always be top-down or infrastructure-heavy. Instead, Avina advocates for a model that aligns incentives across communities, governments, and the private sector, ensuring that solutions are sustainable and adapted to local realities. The role of trust is particularly emphasized as a crucial yet often overlooked form of infrastructure—essential for managing climate-induced conflicts over water scarcity and ensuring long-term collaboration across sectors.

Indigenous and tribal communities also play a central role in Avina’s approach, with a strong commitment to ensuring their participation in decision-making processes. From advocating for indigenous representation in climate governance discussions to recognizing traditional water conservation methods as legitimate forms of technological innovation, the foundation underscores the importance of cultural intelligence in addressing environmental challenges. This extends to Avina’s broader mission of reducing power asymmetries, ensuring that historically marginalized voices are not only heard but actively shape policy and investment decisions.

Fundación Avina’s collaborative ethos is further exemplified by its engagement with global and regional funders. From working with One Drop Foundation, Coca-Cola Foundation, and FEMSA in the Lazos de Agua initiative to partnerships with Skoll Foundation, Ford Foundation, and Packard Foundation, Avina positions itself as a key facilitator in bringing diverse actors together to drive systemic change. Whether working with corporate foundations, development banks, or local philanthropic funds, the foundation’s role is not merely to fund initiatives but to strengthen ecosystems that ensure solutions are deeply embedded in their communities and sustained over time.

Ultimately, this conversation sheds light on a model of philanthropy that moves beyond traditional grant-making to embrace systemic, collaborative, and trust-driven solutions. By leveraging its position as a convener, Fundación Avina is not only addressing immediate challenges but also reshaping the way sustainable development is approached across the Global South.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Executive Director of B Lab UK (B Corp), Chris Turner, and Co-Founder of Grantbook and UnWrapit, Peter Deitz, join Alberto Lidji to discuss the B Corp movement and social entrepreneurship.

 

B Lab UK is the non-profit organisation in the UK behind B Corp. The B Corp movement is a global movement of more than 3,000 businesses that are all acting as a force for good around the world. There are 250 B Corps in the UK, and the movement has been around for 10 years.

 

At the heart of the movement is the ‘Certification’ process, which involves two commitments:

 

1) to score highly on a B Impact Assessment (80 points or more are required) – this means a candidate company has taken a deep look at governance, workers, environment, community and customers.  Those companies being assessed accumulate points for the positive impact they’re creating.

 

2 the second commitment is more symbolic and relates to the governance of the business – it differs depending on the jurisdiction, but in the UK it means that a B Corp amends its articles of association and changes the duties of the directors of the business to essentially give equal weight to people, planet and profit. It puts this triple bottom line principle at the very heart of a business.

 

Certification lasts for three years once it’s awarded. 

 

Peter is a social entrepreneur who has already gotten one of his ventures, Grantbook, B Corp Certified and, now, he’s in the process of getting UnWrapit certified as well.  He notes that the certification process itself will help an organisation’s development – looking at things such as governance, employee positions and policies, how you involve yourself in the community and so forth.  

 

There are many benefits of being a B Corp – whether it’s internal such as attracting great people and retaining them, or external, such as attracting investment, sending the right signals to the market, procurement and more.

 

Peter’s key takeaway: If your company is a meaningful place to work for your employees and you’re creating opportunities for formative experiences, and potentially for ownership in your company, then you’re on the right path. B Corp and the B Corp assessment will help you create that meaningful environment for your employees.

 

Chris’ key takeaway: At the end of the day businesses are a collection of people. Chris encourages business leaders to think about what motivates people. The inspiring business leaders are those who have a real point of view in terms of what their business is for, the role it plays in society, the way in which the people in that business can all contribute.

 

Visit Lidji.org for guest bios, episode notes and useful links.  Please subscribe and share if you enjoy the podcast -- thank you!

 

Prof Steve Evans of the Sustainability and Conservation Research Hub at Wolfson College, University of Cambridge delves into the multifaceted approach of the Hub, which transcends traditional academic boundaries to address critical environmental challenges.

At the heart of the Hub's philosophy is the concept of a 'living lab' — a dynamic space where students, academics, alumni and various stakeholders converge to brainstorm, innovate, and implement sustainable solutions. This approach fosters a culture of practical learning and real-world application.

The hub emphasizes collaboration and shared purpose, inviting members from diverse disciplines to contribute their unique skills and perspectives towards a common goal of making the world a better place.

The Hub also places significant emphasis on mentoring and interaction across generations and disciplines. This approach not only facilitates knowledge exchange but also nurtures a community where innovative ideas can flourish. 

Looking towards the future, Prof Evans envisions Wolfson College as the world's first regenerative college. This ambitious goal extends beyond sustainability; it's about actively repairing and rejuvenating the environment. The Hub aims to redefine the concept of regenerative practices in business and everyday life. 

Engagement with the broader business community is another cornerstone of the Hub's strategy. The Hub encourages partnerships with sustainability-focused start-ups and other enterprises, demonstrating its openness and accessibility. This outreach is crucial for expanding the Hub's impact and integrating practical business insights into its sustainability endeavours.

Prof Evans' insights unveil a forward-thinking approach to tackling environmental challenges. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging innovative thinking, and aiming for regenerative solutions, the Hub is not just educating the next generation of leaders and thinkers but is actively shaping a more sustainable and conscious world.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

Let’s talk collaborative philanthropy! We are joined by Anna Hakobyan (Chief Impact Officer at CIFF — the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation), Deepali Khanna (Managing Director for Asia at the Rockefeller Foundation) and Anurag Banerjee (Co-Founder & CEO of Quilt.AI) for a candid and thought-provoking conversation.

This is an in-depth episode with views from three influential and consequential thought-leaders in philanthropy and social good, who bring a breadth of experience and expertise ranging from grant-making and impact measurement to data-sharing and artificial intelligence for good.  

Collaboration in the world of philanthropy is not only increasing in prominence but is also becoming ever more sophisticated and innovative.  

We take a look at collaboration across numerous dimensions, including funder to funder; funder and grantees; grantee to grantee; Global South to Global South; private and non-profit sectors; and large/experienced organisations to small/inexperienced ones.

We also discuss how impact measurement, evaluation findings and evidence reviews should be viewed as a public good; fully transparent and shared widely; within an environment of trust that creates safe spaces for candid exchanges on what works and what does not.

And, we explore the importance of going beyond traditional knowledge-sharing by targeting the right audiences with key insights at just the right time when they’re in the decision-making process.  This is an episode that will inform you and equip you to achieve more social good. 

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. For information on more than 150 episodes featuring remarkable thought-leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship please visit our website at Lidji.org

 

Ebrima Saidy, Chief Impact Officer of Save the Children International, discusses the importance and diversity of the increasingly-prominent role of the Chief Impact Officer.

At a time when many more organisations are appointing Chief Impact Officers, we consider what the role actually does, what it entails, where Chief Impact Officers come from, and what qualifications and experience they bring with them.

In 2022, Save the Children International directly reached 48.8 million children in 116 countries around the world. They responded to 107 emergencies in 66 countries, reaching 34.4million people including 18.8million children. They also contributed to 129 significant changes and implementation of policy or legislation change related to the most marginalised and deprived groups of children in different countries, regions and internationally.

This episode is for anyone who strives for positive impact on a global scale.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

A must-listen episode that will inform and inspire. Learn how Pinterest is leveraging its scale and reach of 444 million global, monthly active users to change narratives and drive forward social change around emotional wellbeing and mental health.

Pinterest is one of the most inspirational destinations online and, indeed, their mission is to help people discover the things they love, and inspire them to go do those things in their daily lives. 

However, there’s an appreciation that life isn’t always so inspiring, and things on the internet aren’t either. Real-life feelings and experiences can carry over to our lives online. 

Pinterest is focused on emotional wellbeing and they’re leveraging their product, scale and philanthropic network to make a difference to millions of people across the globe.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. For information on nearly 150 interviews with remarkable thought leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship, visit our website at Lidji.org

 

COVID-19 threatens to decimate the developing world. CEO of ActionAid UK, Girish Menon, joins Alberto Lidji to discuss strategic preparations as the novel coronavirus spreads into the Global South. 

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Girish notes: "We have no idea how it's going to unfold, we have no idea when it's going to end, we have no idea of how the new normal will be defined."

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ActionAid is an international charity and human rights organisation that works with women and girls living in poverty and aims to end violence, foster women's economic empowerment and protect girls' and women's rights. They work in approximately 40 countries in the Global South, in Asia, Africa and Latin America and have a keen interest in helping girls and women in humanitarian crises.

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The conversation with Girish focuses exclusively on the devastating impact this global pandemic could have in the developing world and is framed in light of "The Global Impact of COVID-19 and Strategies for Mitigation and Suppression" report from the Imperial College COVID-19 Response Team published on 26 March 2020.

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While populations in low-income countries tend to be younger, they also tend to experience poorer health, live in larger households where the elderly would struggle to self-isolate and often live in highly concentrated environments -- including refugee camps and urban areas.  Moreover, a lack of clean water, poor sanitation and health infrastructures that lack capacity and sophistication all point to a highly disturbing scenario whereby mortality rates and economic impact could devastate societies.

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We discuss ActionAid's strategic thinking and manoeuvring in the face of COVID-19, and the challenges faced by NGOs, and their chief executives, in terms of decreased funding, strained operations and governments that are struggling to cope.

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We also consider how women and girls could be disproportionately impacted by this global pandemic since in low-income countries two thirds of informal sector workers are women -- compounded by the potential for increased domestic violence that we have seen before in moments of crisis.

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ActionAid's largest fundraising market is the UK, which constitutes 1/3 of the funds they raise globally. Therefore, any reduction in UK income could have a highly detrimental impact on ActionAid's work. We discuss ActionAid's Southern Africa Food Crisis Appeal, which they launched two months earlier -- 45 million people are facing one of the worst food crises, impacting the poor and most vulnerable the most. While attention now focuses on the coronavirus, a key point worth underscoring is that these themes are deeply intertwined. 

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During this time of acute crisis, Girish notes how he's been in daily contact with his peers in other organisations. ActionAid maintains close co-ordination and communications with other leading organisations through its membership of 'Bond' -- the UK network for organisations working in international development -- and the DEC (Disasters Emergency Committee). Girish mentions how they have already started considering deploying a global fundraising appeal as the pandemic hits the Global South. 

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Girish's key takeaway for NGO leaders and CEOs: Stay mission-focused and be true to your culture. Don't be distracted from your mission. Focus on what you can control and manage because the world is unpredictable.

 

Visit Lidji.org for guest bios, episode notes and useful links. Please subscribe to this podcast and share widely -- thank you for your support.

 

Nick Hanauer is one of the world’s most provocative thinkers about our society’s growing inequality, the dire consequences that increasing inequality creates for our democracies, and how to fix the system.

An engaging conversation on income inequality that is full of economic and political arguments on the merits of increasing wages and ensuring income inequality doesn’t lead to widespread social unrest.

Nick is a billionaire philanthropist who recognises the severity of the income inequality problem and philanthropy’s relatively small size in relation to the sums involved.

On this episode you’ll learn how Nick is tackling the issue of income inequality and how philanthropists can genuinely make a difference on this front. As a point of interest, Nick is also the podcast host of Pitchfork Economics, which is worth checking out.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Please leave us a rating and a review to help others find this show.

 

 

Tom founded TerraCycle 20 years ago when he was a student at Princeton. Today, TerraCycle is the world’s leader in the collection and reuse of non-recyclable post-consumer waste. 

They work with more than one hundred major brands — including Tesco, Heinz and Coca-Cola — in twenty countries across the globe to collect used packaging and products that would otherwise be destined for landfills. 

Through their ‘Loop’ initiative, they are changing the way we shop by creating sustainable new packaging solutions and enabling consumers to enjoy their favoruite products from popular consumer brands in refillable containers.

A fascinating and thorough exploration of the world of recycling, with key insight into the economics, solutions, opportunities and challenges. We can all make a difference.

Thank you for downloading this episode. Visit The Do One Better Podcast website at Lidji.org for information on around 150 interviews with remarkable guests in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

 

 

If you ever wondered how a Silicon Valley mindset rooted in social entrepreneurship can improve global education, then this episode is for you.  A fascinating look at an organisation that is quite different from traditional philanthropy.

Imaginable Futures is a philanthropic investment firm that combines impact investing and foundation grant-making in order to unleash human potential through learning.

Imaginable Futures spun out of the Omidyar Network a little over a year ago, where they were previously the Education initiative of Omidyar.  They were founded and are funded by Pam and Pierre Omidyar — who is also the Founder of eBay.

Amy worked for eBay, where she served as VP of product strategy and operations, and was previously one of PayPal’s earliest employees in the late 1990s. Today, she leads Imaginable Futures.  She provides great insight and projects very positive energy. 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website at Lidji.org for a full transcript of this episode. Please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others. Thank you!

 

Peter Kaye AM ESM and Stephen De-Wint, CEOs of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award in Australia and Canada respectively, talk about the work of the Award locally and across more than 100 countries. 

They provide first-hand insight into how the Award embraces non-formal education and transforms lives.  This broad conversation looks at diversity, equity and inclusion; volunteering and mentoring; alumni engagement and connecting with the corporate world.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

Unhealthy environments have been linked to a range of significant health risks to children, including premature birth, stillbirth, increased lifelong risk for brain and behavioural problems, respiratory disorders, cardiovascular disease, cancers, dysfunction of hormonal and reproductive systems, and more.

Globally, more than 1 in 4 childhood deaths under 5 years of age are attributable to unhealthy environments—a statistic that will continue to rise as climate change magnifies the world’s most important environmental risk factors.

While environmental health risk factors are clearly leading causes of child illness and death in Asia, country-specific, systematic data needed to develop approaches to improving children’s health and reducing, minimising, and preventing environmental risk factors is often lacking. 

We learn how Children’s Environmental Health Indicators (CEHI) can fill the data and knowledge gap in children’s environmental health; enabling tracking, assessment and reporting on the status and impacts of climate and the environment on children’s health as well as the evaluation of environmental interventions and policies.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Please leave us a rating and a review to help others find this show.

 

Caroline had an 18-year career at the World Bank, where she worked as Managing Director in charge of Operational Policy; Chief of Staff; and Vice President for External Affairs. 

She subsequently joined UBS as Group Managing Director to spearhead the firm’s sustainability policy and investment products.

Today, despite being part of the NGO sector herself, she expresses her views candidly and notes that NGOs can improve how they manage their carbon emissions, report on their carbon footprint and provide visibility on their path to net zero.

She is cautious not to generalise and, indeed, mentions that NGOs directly working on environmental issues tend to be ahead of the curve in having robust climate commitments; but many others in the NGO sector are behind the curve.

Caroline references the United Kingdom's FCDO (Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office) and their recent mandate requesting to know the carbon footprint of organisations that are implementing their projects. In her view, NGOs will be under increased pressure from governments, donors and employees to present more robust commitments to net zero and provide visibility on the path they will take to get there. 

Visit The Do One Better Podcast website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 150 interviews with remarkable thought leaders. Please subscribe, follow and share widely. Thank you!

 

Darshita Gillies is Founder and CEO of Maanch, an impact management platform. They inform asset managers, corporations, philanthropists and funders on impact tracking and impact management within an ESG and sustainability context.

Maanch is a B Corp that is leveraging technology for good and embracing an innovative approach. The focus in this episode is on mobilising capital towards sustainability and the conversation is of interest to a wide audience.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

 

Great Britain is very strong on the global stage of wheelchair basketball. The men’s team are currently the reigning World Champions and European Champions, and the women’s team are the Silver World Medalists and European Silver Medalists. The teams are very excited about the prospects and opportunities at the Paralympic Games in Tokyo.

In the UK there are around 17,000 people who play wheelchair basketball. And there is a new campaign, called Inspire a Generation, aimed at doubling participation with a strong emphasis on working across communities in the UK, upskilling community leaders to bring wheelchair basketball to their communities, along with developing school packs and resources for teachers so that everyone can get involved no matter where they live. 

Interestingly, out of the 17,000 people who play wheelchair basketball, 21% are non-disabled — therefore it’s truly an inclusive sport for all. And, there is demand for another 70,000 new players.

The global audience for the Paralympic Games in Rio was 4.1 billion, which was a 127% increase since 2004 and had coverage in more than 150 countries. 

This begs the question, why can’t we create the sort of professional league environment one sees in other sports, like football, cricket, tennis and hockey? 

There is a new women’s premier league in the pipeline for wheelchair baseball — a world-first — London Phoenix being the Capital’s franchise. The women will lay the foundation for this over the next three years and then men’s franchises will come in as well.

This is great for communities to come together and, importantly, to increase the visibility of the sport. It helps to challenge people’s perceptions around disability and create an inclusive environment so everyone can thrive. Having an active league with frequent, elite competition is also important for the sport to truly flourish and talent to come to the fore.

The Paralympics is gaining a huge support base and we explore whether there’s scope to integrate the Olympics with the Paralympics. It’s a question on many people’s minds.

Visit The Do One Better Podcast website at Lidji.org for more information.

 

Laura Kyrke-Smith is the IRC’s Executive Director in the UK and she joins us to discuss their work in supporting refugees and asylum seekers in the UK who come from Syria, Afghanistan, Ukraine, Iraq, Sudan and beyond.

This episode follows the earlier interview with David Miliband, President and CEO of the IRC, which aired in April 2021 and provided a global outlook of the IRC’s work.

The IRC in the UK provides support through various activities, including orientation for newcomers, employment counselling, peer mentorship and leadership training.

They have five key outcome areas including health; education; economic wellbeing and empowerment; safety (including child and women’s protection); and power (helping their clients be part of the decision-making on matters that impact their lives).

This episode is for anyone who is interested in the humanitarian space and who would like to learn of key initiatives that are helping refugees achieve a better life.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

Iqbal Dhaliwal, Global Executive Director of MIT’s Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL), and Vikrant Bhargava, Founder of Veddis Foundation, join Alberto Lidji to discuss the power of evidence, the ASPIRE partnership and the innovative Emissions Trading Scheme.

We also explore how philanthropists should decide what to fund, where and how to fund; why evidence is so important in driving forward policy change; and why policy itself should be a key focus in the philanthropic space. 

The ASPIRE partnership (Alliance for Scaling Policy Impact through Research and Evidence) is a coalition of governments, philanthropic organizations, civil society groups, and research institutions. 

The Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is a flexible, market-based approach to solving the air pollution problem in India. It works by capping emissions for a particular pollutant, like particulate matter, in a particular area. It allows sources of the pollutant, such as industrial plants, to trade emissions permits among themselves. The capping ensures emissions targets are met while trading allows this to be achieved cheaply.

The Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) is a global research center working to reduce poverty by ensuring that policy is informed by scientific evidence. Anchored by a network of more than 900 researchers at universities around the world, J-PAL conducts randomized impact evaluations to answer critical questions in the fight against poverty.

J-PAL co-founders Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo, with longtime affiliate Michael Kremer, were awarded the 2019 Nobel Prize in Economics for their pioneering approach to alleviating global poverty.

Veddis Foundation invests in organisations working at the intersection of technology, policy, and impact. Veddis also partners with governments on policy implementation, effective public service delivery and governance. 

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

We start off by delving into the differences in approach and expectations between traditional investing, ESG investing and impact investing. Today, the broad view is that it is perfectly viable to seek competitive, risk-adjusted returns, while pursuing best practice in ESG (environmental, social and governance). While, on the more philanthropic side of the spectrum, there are those who are happy to accept concessionary rates of return, trading off some financial return in favour of an improvement in social good.

We look at the Net Zero movement and decarbonisation. And, we explore some areas of contention among those who seek a net zero world. For instance, should one divest from fossil fuels immediately or could one have more leverage by staying engaged?

By divesting immediately, some argue that you lose your voice as an investor to help those firms transition into net zero.  Within public equity companies, if one divests it simply means that someone else is buying these stocks, and you are arguably not making a real world impact, in the sense that the CO2 is still being emitted.  Therefore, by engaging actively as an investor across all sectors (i.e. not just renewables) you continue to wield influence to try to change the strategic direction of firms, such that companies do the transitioning to net zero themselves. 

In this episode we also look at the different tools and approaches available for ESG-minded investors in public and private equity markets. We explore how Actis works with their portfolio companies to help them improve on ESG and how they aim to unlock value during the time of ownership.  

This episode explores a wide range of areas from an investment professional’s perspective. Please note you may also wish to listen to our previous interviews with Bob Moritz, Global Chairman of PwC, and Carmine Di Sibio, Global Chairman and CEO of EY, where we explore ESG and the move to standardising reporting frameworks globally.

Follow and subscribe to The Do One Better Podcast and please leave us a review if you enjoy the show.  Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 150 other interviews with remarkable thought leaders. Thank you!

 

The British Asian Trust was founded in 2007 by His Majesty King Charles III and a group of British Asian business leaders, to tackle widespread poverty, inequality and injustice in South Asia.

Richard Hawkes sheds light on the work of the British Asian Trust, especially around development impact bonds across a range of thematic areas including skills and employability, and girls’ education in South Asia.

The British Asian Trust is entrepreneurial and happy to embrace sensible risk-taking in the international development space.  We learn about how they’ve innovated and how they’ve embraced impact investing to help drive forward the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

The British Asian Trust focuses on five thematic areas: education, livelihoods/jobs, mental health, child protection and conservation.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Please leave us a rating and a review to help others find this show.

 

Lisa Hamilton, President and CEO of the Annie E. Casey Foundation, delves into the organisation’s mission and its groundbreaking efforts to create lasting change for children and families across the United States.

The foundation, established by Jim Casey, the founder of UPS — the world's largest logistics company — carries forward a legacy rooted in empowering young people facing adversity. With an annual grant distribution exceeding $100 million and an endowment of $3.5 billion, the foundation focuses on child welfare, economic opportunity, community development, and juvenile justice reform.

Lisa highlights the foundation’s innovative approach to philanthropy, acting as a catalyst for systemic change rather than merely funding ongoing programs. By identifying promising ideas, piloting initiatives in diverse communities, and leveraging data to scale proven solutions, the foundation partners with nonprofits, government agencies, and community stakeholders to effect change at scale. She underscores the importance of improving systemic operations — whether within juvenile justice, child welfare, or education systems — to ensure sustainability and broad impact.

A key topic of the discussion is the foundation’s Thrive by 25 initiative, which focuses on adolescence as a critical and transformative period of development. Lisa emphasises the necessity of providing young people aged 14 to 24 with the resources and opportunities to succeed, including access to housing, education, financial stability, and meaningful adult relationships. She stresses the importance of aligning programs with emerging brain science, which highlights adolescence as a time of heightened potential for growth and learning.

Lisa calls for a collective reimagining of adolescence as a time of promise rather than peril. She celebrates this life stage as a cornerstone of human development and a fertile period for nurturing leadership, resilience, and creativity.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

In a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation, Tiffany Yu, CEO and Founder of Diversability, explores the transformational potential of disability advocacy, the importance of representation, and the expansive reach of community-building.

As the architect of Diversability—a global community now numbering more than 80,000 individuals—Tiffany has created a platform that empowers disabled individuals and their allies to elevate their voices, dismantle ableist systems, and build collective influence.

What began in 2009 as a student-led initiative has grown into a dynamic, multi-sector movement. Inspired by her corporate experiences at Goldman Sachs and Bloomberg, where she first encountered disability employee resource groups, Tiffany saw firsthand how visibility and solidarity within institutions could alter perceptions and influence systems.

Diversability not only fosters peer connection but also positions disability identity as a source of pride, resilience, and leadership.

Much of the conversation centers on her newly released book, The Anti-Ableist Manifesto, a call to action for disabled and non-disabled readers alike. Through a structured “Me-We-Us” framework, Tiffany makes disability advocacy accessible to all. The manifesto is not simply about compliance with existing legislation—it’s about shifting societal mindsets to affirm the inherent value of disabled lives. It’s a deeply human appeal that complements legal protections like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the UK's Equality Act by focusing on hearts and minds, not just policy.

Tiffany underscores the economic imperative of inclusion. With over 1.6 billion people globally identifying as disabled and a collective market power exceeding $18 trillion, disability inclusion is not only a moral obligation but a competitive advantage. She cites examples of innovations originally designed for disabled users—such as electric toothbrushes, audiobooks, and ergonomic seating—that have gone on to benefit the broader public. These “curb-cut effects” demonstrate how designing with accessibility in mind fosters universal benefit.

The conversation also delves into the structural challenges facing the disability community: fragmentation across geographies, underrepresentation in leadership, and political headwinds threatening essential services. Yet, Tiffany resists despair. She points to disabled entrepreneurs as economic contributors and changemakers, and notes that small businesses led by disabled founders are significantly more likely to hire other disabled people—illustrating how grassroots action can lead to systemic transformation.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Cynthia will be hosting the 'National Prenatal-to-3 Research to Policy Summit' on 15th September 2020. A virtual event open to everyone which will feature Prof Jack Shonkoff of Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child, Gov DeWine of Ohio, Gov Lujan Grisham of New Mexico and various other experts and policymakers.

 

The Summit is presented by the Prenatal-to-3 Policy Impact Center at The University of Texas at Austin LBJ School of Public Affairs. 

 

During the podcast, we hear how early childhood is a period of incredible importance. It is the time when brain development is happening most rapidly.  Cynthia notes how children who are exposed to early adversity have higher rates of lung disease, heart disease, cancer and they engage in more risky behaviour – the earlier years really do shape the development of our brains and our body’s systems.  In the USA, children who are exposed to extreme adversity early in life have a life expectancy that is 20 years shorter than children who are exposed to very limited adversity.

 

We also hear Cynthia’s insight on the most effective policies that states can implement now and how different states in the USA compare to each other.

 

Cynthia’s key takeaway: She wants folks to understand just how important these first three years are, and to understand that we can actually do something to make it so that kids get off to the healthy start they deserve. Policies do represent the choices and the priorities that we have, and if we prioritise the fact that children deserve this healthy start then we know some of the answers for how to make that happen.

 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for guest bios, episode notes and useful links. Please click the subscribe button and share widely with others -- thank you.

 

 

A fascinating and thought-provoking conversation for anyone who's looking to understand attitudes and drive behaviour change at scale for the betterment of society.

 

What drives misogynistic attitudes? How do you know whether your philanthropic intervention is making a difference?  Can AI and big data help improve girls' education and expected career outcomes? What about privacy considerations when analysing mass behaviour online?  We discuss these questions and many more.

 

Quilt.AI is a mission-first technology company, seeking to increase empathy in the world. Using the Internet as a source of knowledge, inspiration and communication, Quilt.AI works on issues including climate change, gender equity and health across the world. Their work has focused on a range of thematic areas across the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

The firm’s clients include some of the world’s most recognised for-profit and non-profit organisations. They’re headquartered in Singapore with a presence in New York, London, Zurich and New Delhi.

 

An insightful conversation that's perfectly aligned with today's global development needs and technological advances.

 

Anurag’s key takeaway: The Internet is still in its infancy.  We think of it as something that’s been here forever but it’s still relatively new. The next version of the Internet, the way information is indexed, the way we experience it, these things are all still to come. These are fascinating times.

 

Editor's Note: This interview was conducted in August 2020.  In October 2020, Quilt.AI became a corporate sponsor of The Do One Better! Podcast.  The original interview was conducted well before there had been any conversations around sponsorship.  Anurag Banerjee was invited as a guest on The Do One Better! Podcast purely on the merits of his work.

 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for guest bios, episode notes and useful links.  Please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others – thank you!

 

The founder and director of the Sanctuary Foundation, Krish Kandiah, talks about the importance of welcoming refugees into our communities. He describes the work of the Sanctuary Foundation and shares his own personal experience of opening his home and welcoming refugees to live with his family.

Despite what the negative headlines might suggest, the British public has demonstrated great warmth and generosity, opening their homes to complete strangers who seek refuge from war and conflict in Ukraine and elsewhere.

The pendulum of public attitudes is moving in the right direction and there’s much we can do to build on this momentum. Just days after marking World Refugee Day on 20th June 2023, this episode will inform, inspire, and prompt you to do more.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

 

Ben Davies provides great insight into the work of the Johnson & Johnson Foundation, their support of frontline healthcare workers, their $250 million investment and their aim to reach 100 million people... and much more.

 

Highly consequential work, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.  This conversation sheds much light on corporate philanthropy and how the private sector plays a role in driving forward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for full episode notes, guest bios and useful links. Please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with your family, friends and colleagues -- thank you!

 

Larry Kramer, incoming President and Vice Chancellor of the London School of Economics (LSE), joins Alberto Lidji on the Do One Better Podcast to reflect on his 10+ years as President of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, discuss key lessons in philanthropy, and shed light on his aspirations for the LSE.

The Hewlett Foundation is one of the world's largest philanthropic foundations and was a leading force in creating the field of climate philanthropy. Within the context of climate, we discuss collaboration; the progress that's been achieved in the field during the past decade; adaptation vs mitigation; investing vs divesting; shifting strategies from 'raising ambitions' to 'implementation'. Spoiler alert: the direction of travel on climate is positive.

We explore the state of affairs in philanthropy and the key lessons Larry learned during his time as President of the Hewlett Foundation. Much ground is covered: from philanthropists' increased appetite for learning, experimentation, and collaboration; to encouraging journalists who cover the field of philanthropy to gain first-hand experience working in foundations; to trust-based philanthropy, and quite a bit more.

We also hear of Larry's aspirations for the London School of Economics, which he describes as pretty much 'the' global institution unlike any other university, perfectly placed to leverage its social sciences prowess to tackle the world's most pressing problems. We learn what must be done to ensure the LSE achieves greatest impact.

This episode will inform you and provide much food for thought. Please leave us a rating and a review. Join us every Monday for new and insightful conversations.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

 

Learn how Charlize Theron, one of Hollywood’s biggest names, founded CTAOP in 2007 and is today driving a strong network of charitable partners, supporting youth in diverse ways and working with a team of professionals to help improve young people’s lives as we approach the UN Sustainable Development Goals for 2030.

Ashlee George has been part of Charlize Theron’s team for 15 years and over the past decade has been leading CTAOP’s efforts to oversee dramatic growth, including increasing the foundation’s grant making, communities served and youth engaged — underscoring CTAOP’s vision of a future where all youth are empowered to live healthy, HIV-free lives.

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for a full transcript, guest bio and useful links.  Please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others. Thank you!

 

On this episode, Dan Corry sheds light on the work of New Philanthropy Capital (NPC) and we explore the impact agenda from a range of angles, including:

(1) How does the impact agenda relate to trust-based philanthropy? 

(2) Is impact measurement is too top-down?

(3) Are randomised control trials (RCTs) preferable to quicker, more iterative alternatives?

(4) Is there enough risk-taking in philanthropy and what can policymakers do to incentivise it?

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

 

In September 2022, Prof Mamokgethi Phakeng was awarded the inaugural Africa Education Medal, awarded by T4 Education to “an outstanding individual who has demonstrated impact, leadership, and advocacy in the field of education”.

Hear the truly remarkable personal and professional story of Prof Mamokgethi Phakeng -- overcoming great adversity in poverty and South Africa’s apartheid, and reaching the pinncale of academia and becoming Vice Chancellor of the top university in Africa.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Please leave us a rating and a review to help others find this show.

 

The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is at the forefront of funding cardiovascular research, with £447m in active research commitments across the UK, powered by 4,000 staff and 20,000 volunteers. They are celebrating their 60th birthday in 2021.

Every year the BHF funds around £100m in new research, backing the best talent and a wide range of projects, from data science and new AI technology to genetics and regenerative medicine.

They embrace a strong sense of urgency in support of the 7.6m people who have cardiovascular disease in the UK and we hear of the pressing need to tackle patient waiting lists, which pose a real threat to many people in serious medical need.

The BHF relies on strong, diverse partnerships with key stakeholders from the private sector, government, academia, other charities and many other sectors — both nationally and locally. Partnerships are crucial to the BHF and we explore some specific partnerships during this episode.

Charmaine also provides much insight into the challenges she faced while managing the BHF during the COVID-19 pandemic. She joined as CEO in February 2020, just as the pandemic was taking off and had to close their offices shortly thereafter — facing a steep learning curve as she and her colleagues learned to operate in a digital environment. A real challenge when you need to engage with 20,000 volunteers.

The pandemic impacted every aspect of the BHF’s operations, including its 730 shops and stores, which are scattered across the whole of the UK.

During the worst moments of the pandemic, BHF was losing £10m monthly.  Last summer, they reduced the operating size of the core organisation by 25% to ensure they maximised and protected their revenues from charitable work, with the aim of ensuring they didn’t have to reduce any of their research activities.

Fortunately, their stores have now reopened and their offices have embraced a hybrid working model — a new way of working they are looking to maintain for the long-term. We hear about their Flexibly Connected programme that redesigned their office environment and ensures people have what they need when they work from home and aims to encourage office use as convening spaces for collaboration.

This is a fascinating and inspiring chat with an energetic CEO who cares deeply about the British Heart Foundation and the millions of people it supports.

Visit The Do One Better Podcast website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 150 other interviews with remarkable thought leaders. Please subscribe, follow and leave a review if you enjoy the show. Thank you!

 

 

Chris shares his insight on the social entrepreneurial journey and his current venture, “Living With”, which helps patients, doctors and researchers to manage conditions remotely and derive  valuable data in the process.

Chris has 20 years’ experience of building fast growth, multinational companies and products, from £0 to £50m turnover. Among other ventures, he built and floated digital agency, Syzygy, on the German Stock Exchange and co-founded Ink Publishing, the world’s largest publisher of inflight media. He holds an MBA from London Business School and a degree from Oxford University.

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for a full transcript of this podcast episode, guest bios and useful links.  Please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others. Thank you!

 

Chiwetel Ejiofor is an Oscar-nominated actor and engaged philanthropist, collaborating closely with the Geanco Foundation as they drive forward education, health and gender equity in Nigeria.

Chiwetel shares his journey into philanthropy, influenced by his family's medical background and his own passion for education and healthcare.

He discusses his collaboration with Afam Onyema, CEO of the Geanco Foundation, and how this partnership has led to significant advancements in education and medical care in Nigeria, particularly through the development of the Brightland Academy in Enugu.

The episode delves into Chiwetel's personal involvement in various projects, his approach to using his platform for amplifying important causes, and the transformative impact of these initiatives over the last decade.

Chiwetel's reflections offer insights into the power of philanthropy in fostering change and building a better future, particularly in challenging environments like Nigeria.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

A warm conversation with Ricardo Lagos, a towering figure of Latin American politics who played a highly consequential role during Chile’s transition to democracy in the 1980s and later on as President of Chile in the 2000s.

Ricardo Lagos was President of Chile from 2000 to 2006.  He left office with a remarkably high approval rating of c. 70%.   He served for the centre-left Concertación de Partidos por la Democracia coalition, championing reforms to the healthcare system, enacting free-trade agreements whilst reducing economic inequality.

We hear of his — now famous — live TV interview in 1988 where he pointed an accusatory finger directly at the camera challenging General Pinochet’s attempt to extend his rule by plebiscite.  

This was a key moment in Chile’s transition to democracy and, at the time, led many viewers to fear Ricardo Lagos was unlikely to see another day. Interestingly, he didn’t quite realise the impact of what he said during that TV interview until afterwards when people started coming up to him to tell him just how remarkable it had been.

We also hear about Ricardo Lagos' passion for tackling the climate crisis and his time as UN Special Envoy on Climate Change between 2007 and 2010. He is candid about some of the challenging conversations he had with other leaders, such as President Lula of Brazil on the harm of deforestation in the Amazon.

He remarks that in the past, the key question was ‘what’s your country’s National Income?’ These days, the key question should be ‘what’s your country’s per capital carbon emissions?’ Times have changed considerably over the past decade and must continue to change as we strive for the Sustainability Agenda.

We also get insight into the work of the Fundación Democracia y Desarrollo, which he founded after stepping down as President of Chile, and the importance of civic engagement and the power of the digital age to foster transparency in government.

Click the subscribe button and visit The Do One Better Podcast at Lidji.org for information on more than 100 other interviews with remarkable thought leaders. Thank you!

 

Shannon Elizabeth is an actor who is passionate about animal conservation. She has starred in over 50 films and television shows, including American Pie, Scary Movie, Love Actually and That 70’s Show.  Simon Borchert has a strong family history of animal conservation in South Africa. Together, this dynamic husband and wife duo are protecting rhinos and strengthening the field of conservation through the work of the Shannon Elizabeth Foundation.

We learn about the foundation’s operations, programs, advocacy with legislators and we gain insight into leveraging the celebrity platform to drive forward positive change and get the message across.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Please leave us a rating and a review to help others find this show.

 

Enlightening conversation with Daniela Barone Soares, the visionary CEO of Snowball Impact Investment. Discover how Snowball is reshaping the landscape of finance to foster prosperity for people and the planet.

• Redefining Investment: Learn how every investment impacts the world, and why recognizing this is crucial for sustainable finance.
• Snowball's Unique Approach: Explore Snowball's innovative, diversified global fund that focuses on solving critical environmental and social issues through profitable, mission-driven companies.
• Beyond Financial Returns: Understand Snowball's commitment to non-extractive fee models and its recognition as a top B Corp for governance.
• Impactful Investments: Hear about Snowball's strategy for selecting impactful investments, exemplified by the transformative work of eFishery in Indonesia.
• Measuring Impact: Delve into the complexities and methodologies behind quantifying social and environmental impact in investment portfolios.
• The Future of Investing: Daniela shares her vision for democratizing impact investing and the urgency of aligning financial decisions with the SDGs by 2030.

Final Thought: Embrace the power of your investments for change. Discover how impactful investing can be the key to a sustainable future.

Don't Miss This Episode: Tune in to gain valuable insights into the dynamic world of impact investing and how it's shaping our future.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

There is a robust body of research on 'what' donors fund. However, many questions around ‘how’ to fund need to be researched and explored more thoroughly.

If you have $100 million available to fund a cause, do you give it all in one grant, do you make a handful of large grants or do you make a high number of small grants?

In this episode we explore some of the big questions on how to fund; consider a range of dynamics, such as transaction costs and grantee perceptions; and call for more research in this field.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

The Veddis Foundation is based in India and is both a grant-maker and an operating foundation. They make unrestricted, multi-year grants and approach programs with a view to pilot, scale, institutionalise and exit.  They’re keen on investing at the intersection of policy, technology and impact.

We explore their approach to trust-based philanthropy and learn how they go about building trust among all stakeholders. We get an insider’s look at how they operate and what success looks like at the Veddis Foundation.

Before venturing into the world of impact and philanthropy, Murugan spent 20 years working at Cisco in India, and he takes the opportunity to shed light on corporate philanthropy in India and identifies gaps that present opportunities for improvement.

Murugan notes that “the future is looking bright for India” and we get a glimpse of why the philanthropy sector in India is so vibrant, exciting and full of opportunity right now.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Please leave us a rating and a review to help others find this show.

 

This episode focuses on global conflict prevention and resolution and we are joined by Comfort Ero, President and CEO of the International Crisis Group.

The International Crisis Group provides independent analysis and advice on how to prevent, resolve and better manage deadly conflict, combining field research, analysis and engagement with policymakers across the world in order to effect change in crisis situations.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

Dedo n Ba, Director of Strategy of the Segal Family Foundation, Discusses Strategic Philanthropy, African Social Entrepreneurs, and Building Collaborative Ecosystems.

This episode offers a rich exploration of the strategic considerations and practical efforts involved in driving philanthropy in Sub-Saharan Africa. It highlights the importance of collaboration, the evolving nature of board governance, and the critical role of local knowledge in shaping effective interventions.

Whether you're a seasoned philanthropist or new to the sector, this conversation provides valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges of supporting African-led change.

In this insightful episode of the Do One Better Podcast, we host Dedo n Ba, the Director of Strategy at the Segal Family Foundation, and explore the Foundation's innovative approaches to philanthropy in Sub-Saharan Africa.

With a focus on building collaborative ecosystems and empowering African social entrepreneurs, Dedo provides a comprehensive overview of how the Segal Family Foundation operates across 20 countries, fostering connections and driving impactful change.

Dedo begins by introducing the Segal Family Foundation's mission, which stems from founder Barry Segal's desire to address the capital imbalance faced by African social entrepreneurs. The Foundation's work is rooted in a blended financing model, combining grants, debt, and capacity-building efforts to support a diverse portfolio of leaders and organizations across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and technology.

The Foundation’s philosophy is to partner early with organizations, helping them grow into investable entities capable of attracting further funding and achieving significant community impact.

A key highlight of the discussion revolves around the Foundation's commitment to creating collaborative ecosystems, a process that requires deliberate effort and resources.

Dedo emphasizes the importance of having boards that are inclusive of individuals with lived experience, a shift he notes is gaining traction within the philanthropic sector. This approach not only enhances the relevance of decision-making processes but also drives more effective and culturally informed interventions.

Throughout the episode, Dedo touches on the importance of sharing intelligence and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, including funders, social entrepreneurs, and local communities. He notes that while collaboration is often underfunded, it is crucial for scaling impact and addressing complex social challenges.

The Segal Family Foundation's role as a community builder has evolved over time, with an increasing focus on supporting networks and coalitions that can respond swiftly and effectively to emerging needs.

As the conversation progresses, Dedo reflects on the broader landscape of philanthropy in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in the context of the upcoming targets for the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2030.

He is optimistic about the growing involvement of African-led organizations and the emergence of new themes such as climate action and inclusion. However, he also acknowledges the challenges that remain, particularly the need to increase the percentage of global giving directed towards leaders with proximate experience.

The episode concludes with Dedo sharing his personal journey from the private sector to philanthropy, driven by a desire to solve problems and create meaningful change. He underscores the importance of strategic philanthropy that is both agile and responsive to the needs of the communities it serves.

For listeners, the key takeaway is clear: there is still much work to be done to bridge the gap in funding and support for African social entrepreneurs, and the philanthropic sector must continue to evolve to meet these challenges.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

Charitable status within the independent / private school sector in Britain is one of the most emotionally-charged and contentious topics. Some private schools operate as registered charities while others do not.

Alberto Lidji moderates a robust and civilised debate with Julie Robinson, CEO of the Independent Schools Council (ISC), and Francis Green, Professor of Work and Education Economics at the Institute of Education, University College London's (UCL) Faculty of Education and Society.

Julie Robinson and Francis Green hold opposing views and yet manage to identify some common ground and fruitful area for future education policy exploration.

This episode will inform you about one of the most debated topics in education reform in Britain today. It may strengthen your existing views, or tempt you to view counter arguments more favourably, or even make you appreciate this topic is not as clear cut as you may have thought.

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. Visit our website at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Please leave us a rating and a review to help others find this show.

 

Geoff Wilson shares insights into his journey from financial success to a deep commitment to philanthropy, driven by a blend of personal values and a vision for the social impact potential within the asset management industry.

Growing up in a middle-class family in Melbourne, Australia, Wilson absorbed values that emphasized community engagement, a theme that he has woven into his professional life over 44 years in finance. Wilson's story is a testament to how philanthropic endeavors can be intricately tied to financial success and how strategic giving can transcend traditional methods.

Geoff Wilson is the founder of Wilson Asset Management in Australia, and this episode dives into Wilson's innovative financial model, which redefines the role of fund management fees. Inspired by a UK-based cancer research fund, Wilson established the Future Generation and Future Generation Global funds in Australia, where managers oversee assets pro bono. This model allocates management fees toward charitable causes rather than the fund’s bottom line. His structure not only benefits the charities but provides value to investors who pay lower fees while accessing premier fund managers. Wilson’s focus has centered on supporting causes like youth mental health and children at risk, establishing a collaborative funding approach that’s become influential within the Australian finance and philanthropic landscapes.

Wilson’s funds were received with initial skepticism in Australia, as the philanthropic landscape was, until recently, conservative about publicizing donations. However, his pro bono investment structure has since inspired other funds to adopt similar models, and it now channels millions annually into Australian charities. This initiative represents a "win-win-win" for fund managers, investors, and charities alike — a sentiment Wilson describes as the driving ethos of his model.

Beyond financial commitment, Wilson encourages others worldwide to replicate this model, suggesting that an interconnected global approach can support more resilient philanthropic ventures. Emphasizing that impactful giving is as much a personal journey as a financial one, he describes his own evolving sense of purpose: once focused on wealth accumulation, he now finds profound fulfillment in maximizing social impact and improving lives through sustainable philanthropic structures.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

 

Vodafone Group is one of the world’s leading telecoms and technology service providers – covering such things as connectivity, convergence and the internet of things. They also have strong expertise in mobile financial services and digital transformation in emerging markets. They mainly operate in Europe and Africa, with mobile operations in 24 countries.

 

Dorothée explains how the role of the sector in society is crucial. The nature of the products and services they’re involved with means they have the potential to leverage digitisation to enable the speed and scale needed to deliver the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

 

At Vodafone, their drive is about connecting for a better future; it’s about building a digital society that leaves no one behind and protects the planet.

 

We explore what it takes to embed a sustainability mindset within the organisation. Dorothée notes that it’s very helpful that, at Vodafone, sustainability is a CEO-led agenda and it can be found throughout the whole organisation, including in functions such as Vodafone procurement, Vodafone business, brand and commercial.

 

Dorotheée’s key takeaway for those working in sustainability within a corporate environment is (1) Purpose: really finding that genuine articulation of why you exist as a company; and if that exercise hasn’t been done yet, try to make that exercise happen at the highest level; and (2) Pace: the window to avoid a climate catastrophe is closing. There’s a drive and energy and a passion to go very fast and go where we need to go. But sometimes this doesn’t work in a big organisation, and sometimes you need to take a step back and bring the organisation along. 

 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for guest bios, episode notes and useful links. Please subscribe on your favourite podcast app and share widely – thank you!

 

Conciliation Resources' Executive Director, Jonathan Cohen, provides a candid look at the world of peacebuilding. We explore the ways peacebuilding happens, the investments required, and the different types of organisations that are involved -- from analysis, to on-the-ground mediation, diplomacy and more.

Conciliation Resources works with people impacted by war and violence, bringing diverse voices together to make change that lasts. They connect the views of people on the ground with political processes, and share experience and expertise so others can find creative responses to conflict.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

 

Harriet Oppenheimer, Chief Executive of RNID (Royal National Institute for Deaf People), delves into the organisation’s work in support of the 18 million individuals in the UK who are deaf, have hearing loss, or experience tinnitus.

She underscores the pervasive nature of hearing-related issues, noting that if one does not personally face such challenges, they undoubtedly know someone who does. With this universal relevance as a foundation, RNID has committed to fostering inclusion and improving lives through a strategic framework focused on three interconnected levels: changing society, transforming systems, and enhancing individual lives.

RNID, a heritage organisation with over a century of impact, remains steadfast in its purpose while adapting to the demands of a modern, digital world. Harriet explains how their work in "changing society" encompasses awareness campaigns to promote hearing protection and foster a culture of consideration for those with hearing loss. These efforts aim to break down barriers in social interactions and normalise the use of hearing aids and support systems.

At the individual level, RNID provides direct support through online resources, a contact centre, and in-person services such as drop-in centres and community talks. These touch points enable RNID to stay connected to its communities and gather insights to shape its initiatives further. Harriet articulates the importance of early intervention in hearing loss, pointing out that untreated hearing impairment can exacerbate social isolation, depression, and even increase the risk of dementia. RNID’s free online hearing check empowers people to address their hearing health proactively.

Looking to the future, Harriet discusses the organisation’s initiative to reimagine hearing healthcare in the UK. Despite significant technological and societal advancements, the process of receiving hearing care has remained largely unchanged for two decades. RNID is calling for genuine innovation — user centred, tech-enabled solutions that prioritise accessibility and personalisation. This includes ideas such as home-based hearing checks, app-based diagnostics, and devices tailored to individual needs.

Harriet also touches on groundbreaking research into the link between hearing loss and dementia, a relatively nascent field with the potential to redefine approaches to dementia prevention and diagnosis. She emphasises that advancing this research requires collaboration and funding and invites stakeholders from various sectors to join RNID in this critical work.

RNID’s work is a call to action for society to recognise the importance of hearing health, break the stigma surrounding hearing aids, and embrace the potential of innovation to transform lives.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 300 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

Note: This interview took place in Dec 2024 and aired in Jan 2025

 

Together for Girls is a global, public-private partnership dedicated to ending violence against children, especially sexual violence against girls.

The partnership includes five UN agencies, the governments of the United States and Canada, several private sector organisations and more than 20 country governments in Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, working together to generate comprehensive data and solutions to this public health and human rights epidemic.

Together for Girls, in partnership with the CDC — the US Centers for Disease Control — has conducted their Violence Against Children and Youth Surveys in 24 countries.  They now have data for over 10% of the world's population under 24 on this issue and are the single largest repository on sexual violence data for children, adolescents and youth. 

This is a fascinating conversation on a sobering topic, underpinned by optimism and a sense of urgency.  Daniela sheds light on the global context of violence against children and clearly articulates the work being done to tackle it. 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website at Lidji.org for a full transcript of this interview. Please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely — thank you!

 

The Head of the Wimbledon Foundation, Paige Murphy, talks with Alberto Lidji, former CEO of the Novak Djokovic Foundation, about the charitable work of the Wimbledon Foundation, their key partnerships and the invaluable role of sports in providing essential skills for education and employment.

The Wimbledon Foundation is the official charity of the All England Lawn Tennis Club and the Championships. Their mission is to champion opportunity for all, and they aim to leverage the resources of the Club and the Championships to make a positive difference in people’s lives.

As the Wimbledon Foundation approaches its 10th Anniversary, we learn about their trajectory; their COVID response work; and their current support of 100 local charities in the London boroughs of Merton and Wandsworth, key partnerships with WaterAid and the British Red Cross, and their support of ‘Set for Success’ – an initiative delivered by the Youth Sport Trust that is also supported by Barclays – the official banking partner of the Championships.

Interestingly, the Wimbledon Foundation does not focus on tennis. Rather, their goals are to strengthen the local community, promote active and healthy lives, inspire the next generation of young people, and respond at times of need. They support their partners in diverse ways and are always thinking creatively about how to make a difference.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 200+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

 

 

Dr Randa Grob-Zakhary, Founder and CEO of Education.org, is unequivocal about the need to reduce the gap between the existing body of evidence in education and the small amount of that evidence that’s actually being used by policymakers. 

Education.org is a young foundation making big, positive waves within the world of education. Early stage investors and partners supporting it include the Oak Foundation, Dubai Cares, Porticus, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative and Echidna Giving.

Randa brings innovative thinking to the table and, as she points out, “it’s very hard being a start-up in the education sector because the sector is so oriented towards the status quo”. 

Prior to founding Education.org, Randa held various roles, including CEO of the LEGO Foundation; Board Member with the Global Partnership for Education; and Global Head of Education at Porticus. She holds an M.D. and PhD in neuroscience from Johns Hopkins University.  

Thank you for downloading this episode. For information on more than 150 episodes with remarkable thought leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship just visit Lidji.org

 

We hear how five venture capitalists met in London approximately 15 years ago and explored how philanthropy could embrace more of an entrepreneurial spirit, and how venture capital assets could blend with philanthropy assets. Those were the origins of the EVPA.

 

There are many ways of defining venture philanthropy, and Steven likes to think about it along three dimensions: 1) yes, giving is good but it’s even better if you can measure your results and you know what you’re after; 2) as in venture capitalism, you need to go beyond the funding by exploring the value that one can provide by opening one’s networks, by providing capacity-building etc; and 3) being creative enough to provide tailored financing that is flexible and fits best with a given situation.

 

We hear how the EVPA is active in over 30 countries and has more than 300 members.  They are an ecosystem builder and provide diverse services, from peer group convening to research and working closely with all stakeholders.

 

The EVPA also has a strong relationship with the European Commission and connects closely with academic institutions and policymakers.  The typical profile of an EVPA member is mainly a European, cross-national organisation. Foundations and social investment funds are two of their main membership constituents, along with organisations such as NGOs and social enterprises that are more on the demand side of the equation.

 

While traditionally their members were organisations, more recently they have also started including high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) and philanthropists in their membership – individuals who can bring key resources and expertise to the mix.

 

Steven notes that COVID-19 is presenting serious challenges and he views this pandemic in three phases:

 

1) The survival phase – ensuring, for instance, that liquidity challenges don’t lead social enterprises to failure.

 

2) The revival phase – say the next 6 to 18 months – how best to stabilise and get things back on line.

 

3) The building resilience phase – being much better prepared for whatever future crisis might be looming in the horizon.

 

Foundations are struggling right now as they consider how to address the challenges presented by the novel coronavirus; they’re being prompted to ask some highly consequential questions, such as:

 

1) Should I redesign my programme, perhaps by moving away from a traditional focus on, say, the arts to a new focus on health or tackling COVID-19 in refugee camps?

 

2) Should I shorten my investment horizon from a multi-year approach to a more short-term focus, right now, to support organisations with immediate funding to address their liquidity challenges? and

 

3) How should I react if my foundation’s endowment has taken a serious hit?

 

Steven notes that the EVPA is suggesting to their members that they become a bit more relaxed about the rigorous reporting requirements they’re traditionally asking of grantees and to be more flexible with the management of grants; they should ideally open up a little bit about where and when to use the money; become a bit more relaxed because it’s urgently needed now.

 

When asked about how the EVPA member organisations and industry stakeholders all share information with each other, Steven mentioned that they have just gone live with Unitus Europe – a European philanthropy and social investing impact hub – a joint initiative the EVPA was very involved in launching.  They’re joining forces to ensure that the whole sector can have visibility on the different actions and initiatives that are being taken and, in the process, connecting supply and demand.

 

Steven also sheds light on the challenges being faced by social investment funds at this time and the partnerships that the EVPA has developed with various universities that are focused on applied research, such as ESADE in Barcelona, ERASMUS in Rotterdam, Catolica in Lisbon and HEC in Paris.

 

Steven talks about his background in the private sector and how he ended up running the EVPA. He always had a conviction that there should be a sweet spot where you can both do business and you can also do good at the same time.

 

When considering what success looks like in the next 10 years; a time horizon that aligns well with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Steven notes that using regulated accounts to measure the success of a business is something we’ve started doing approximately 150 years ago.  Before that there really weren’t any regulated accounts.  Yet, today, the financials are the key metric everyone looks to.  A similar thing happened with risk – looking at risk and return is something that is relatively new. Therefore, what Steven sees now is a third element coming into the picture, which is 'impact'. Societal additionality – there are loads of debates on how to measure impact yet, in 10 years’ time, he’d like to see a state of affairs where impact is a tangible and integral part of this risk-return-impact dimension.

 

Steven’s key takeaway for listeners: these unprecedented times in light of COVID-19 mean there are big dangers and big opportunities out there. He sees that in times of crisis, we tend to take measures that are not temporary but are often here to stay. Right now he’s following a current discussion on privacy and whether we should deploy smartphone apps to track what we’re doing, who we’re connecting with etc [within a COVID-19 context]. From an immediate perspective, for sure, there is a benefit of implementing such a system.  However, we need to be mindful of how best to implement things that have a short-term value while also keeping in mind that once implemented it may not be so easy to remove them when required. We should be very aware that the actions we take now in this time of crisis will probably be around for a much longer time. Democracy is at stake – we should not take light-hearted decisions and we must keep our long-term values front and centre when taking action now.

 

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We hear how Afam’s father, and his dream to improve lives in Nigeria, was the inspiration that led to the creation of the Geanco Foundation – a charity based in Los Angeles. His father is originally from Nigeria and Geanco is very much a family story; they led with a dream and figured everything else from there.

 

Afam studied at Harvard and Stanford Law, yet his calling to serve guided him to the world of philanthropy and development work, and he co-founded the Geanco Foundation in 2007 right after completing his law degree.

 

He explains how declining numerous corporate law job offers in order to launch a foundation was not an easy choice – and indeed his mother certainly raised an eyebrow when she learned of this – but the decision simply felt right and Afam has never looked back.

 

Even though Afam had no experience in fundraising – an essential ingredient for any nascent charity – he was incredibly fortunate to get immediate financial backing from some of his classmates who organised a fundraiser for him early on and, also, from one of his professors who had done very well in the tech sector and had decided to support Afam and his work at Geanco for the first year.

 

The Harvard and Stanford networks played important roles and Afam advises listeners not to neglect the power and potential of your alumni networks.  His base of support today has much to do with the thousands of emails he sent to Harvard alumni and Stanford alumni over the years. 

 

Afam presents a sobering picture of the many challenges faced by the people of Nigeria today, from poor education and health, to gender inequality and the threat from terrorism. The Geanco Foundation tackles many of these challenges in its own way, by developing and driving highly targeted and meaningful interventions.

 

On healthcare, they organise medical and surgical missions in Nigeria, carrying out hip and knee replacements and various other types of operations. They also help improve outcomes in prenatal care by, among other things, helping to screen hundreds of women each month for anaemia and distributing ‘Mama Kits’ in rural parts of the country, which contain all the essentials one would need to deliver a baby safely in rural settings.

 

On education, they provide a variety of services and support, which range from delivering tablets to schoolchildren so they can read and study during lockdown, to helping build sports facilities and ensure schools have the right equipment.

 

Afam talks with great passion of the David Oyelowo Leadership Scholarship for Girls, which the Foundation launched with the invaluable support of David Oyelowo, a world-renowned actor who cares deeply about the work of the Geanco Foundation.  David is just one of the many Hollywood celebrities who supports Geanco in a meaningful and substantive way – a partnership in the true sense. 

 

The Scholarship supports girls – many of whom have been left orphaned by terrorism in the country – in a comprehensive and meaningful way by providing support ranging from school tuition, room and board, healthcare and even by having representatives of the Foundation attend parent teacher conferences. 

 

The Scholarship started with just 3 girls in a single school in Abuja, the capital of Nigeria, and today serves 35 girls in 4 schools throughout the country. In the coming years, Afam would like to see this grow further.

 

He notes that while these numbers may seem modest, the ‘Leadership Scholarships’ are truly comprehensive, meaning it’s not simply a matter of writing a cheque.  In the case this Scholarship, they literally help girls across pretty much every meaningful aspect of their lives.

 

There is no question that celebrity support has been invaluable to the Geanco Foundation. Afam notes that this support took time to secure and nurture, but with transparency, trust and real partnership it is proving extremely fruitful.  These celebrity engagements are true partnerships that go well beyond the simple endorsement one might think of.

 

Interestingly, Oprah Winfrey was the first funder of the David Oyelowo Leadershp Scholarship for Girls, and celebrities such as Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor ,Jimmy Kimmel and Charlize Theron  have been invaluable in supporting the Foundation by making introductions, getting involved and being part of the Geanco family.

 

Afam’s key takeaway for listeners:  He points us to his life’s mantra, which is simply to be kind to others and to serve. Our world is becoming angrier, sharper and more divisive.  Just find ways to be kind and always ask yourself how can you serve in any given situation.

 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for guest bios, episode notes and useful links. Please click the subscribe button on your favourite app and follow us on LinkedIn. Thank you!

 

The Beacon Collaborative exists to encourage more private assets to be used for public good.  It is a focal point where philanthropists can come together, share ideas and learn from each other – and where organisations can collaborate to support them on their donor journeys.

We explore the barriers and opportunities in giving philanthropically; the intergenerational dynamics within families; the regulatory environment; the value of relationships between donors and charities and ways in which government can foster more philanthropy.

This episode looks at philanthropy from a UK context but will inform and inspire an international audience. 

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. For information on more than 150 interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship, visit our website at Lidji.org

 

The CEO of the Impact Investing Institute, Kieron Boyle, discusses the nuances of impact investing, its various definitions, and the role it plays in creating a fairer, greener, and more resilient future.

Kieron explains the mission of the Impact Investing Institute, a nonprofit established by the UK government to accelerate impact investing both in the UK and globally. The conversation highlights how impact investing operates within financial markets to drive significant social and environmental outcomes.

Kieron Boyle defines impact investing as investing with the intention to generate positive social and environmental impacts alongside financial returns. This type of investing can range from commercial-plus investments, which offer good financial returns with additional impact considerations, to investments with high impact but potentially lower financial returns. The discussion emphasizes the importance of using impact as a lens for investment decisions, aiming to mobilize an additional trillion pounds of impact investment over the next five years. They explore the need for deeper, more liquid, and transparent markets to facilitate greater investment in impactful ventures.

The episode also addresses the challenges of impact investing, such as the necessity of pricing negative externalities to better align market activities with social and environmental goals. Kieron explains how blended finance can pool different types of capital to unlock greater investment in impactful ventures. They discuss the role of various actors, including governments, private businesses, institutional investors, and philanthropic organizations, in advancing impact investing. Collaboration among these sectors is highlighted as crucial for achieving systemic change.

Kieron shares practical steps and resources for those interested in impact investing. The Impact Investing Institute offers a comprehensive knowledge hub and library to help investors and other stakeholders learn more about impact investing. A recently published report, "Family Offices: A Roadmap to Impact," provides insights into how family offices are engaging with impact investing. The episode concludes with a call to action for investors to adopt impact as a fundamental filter in their investment strategies, aiming to create a more equitable and sustainable future. 

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship. 

Practical Action is an innovative international development organisation; their Patron is Prince Charles, HRH The Prince of Wales, and they partner with diverse organisations including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the IKEA Foundation and DFID – the UK’s Department for International Development.

 

The organisation is comprised of various entities, which include a charity running projects internationally, a publishing company and a consulting company as well – together they work hard to find ingenious solutions, capture and share learnings, and to bring about big change.

 

Practical Action works in about 12 countries at any one time. In total they have 600 staff and partner with many organisations. Their operating budget for charitable actives is about £30m annually.

 

They’re a very practical organisation and focus on farming that works; energy that transforms people’s lives; helping to build resilience; and making urban centres safer places for people to live in – particularly looking at water sanitation.

 

The thrust of the conversation with Paul revolved around Practical Action’s work in Bangladesh (where they have a team of approximately 100 staff) as it pertains to water sanitation.   Paul is a water and sanitation engineer – so he gets very excited about this topic.  He’s not shy to say that in the case of their water sanitation project work in Bangladesh, essentially, “we’re talking about poo”.

 

They’ve been working with marginalised, urban communities in slum areas in towns and cities around Bangladesh and helping them to improve their living conditions.  Again, in his candid manner, Paul notes that a particular problem is “the problem of shit”.  Many people have access to a latrine, which people use as their toilet – but the challenge they found was that emptying the latrines was a huge problem.

 

Across the whole of Bangladesh, something along the lines of 80,000 tonnes of human waste is produced every day, and over 90% of it remains untreated.  What happens often is that emptying these latrines becomes the task of informal waste workers, literally emptying pits by hand and disposing of the sludge in open watercourses. We’re talking about something that fills the equivalent of 30 Olympic swimming pools every day.

 

This poses a terrible health threat to people living in these areas. The total population of Bangladesh is around 160 million people; of which perhaps 40% are living under the poverty level.  Safe sanitation is a matter for the whole population – not just those living in slums.

 

Practical Action focused on developing a market system for sludge, working across the board with diverse stakeholders, including micro finance outfits, government representatives and foundations.

 

They tried to answer the question of: How do you get these pits emptied in a safe and reliable way?

 

Practical Action’s solution turned this activity into a business, in a sustainable way – in partnership with a broad range of actors, developing a workforce and turning sludge into fertiliser.

 

They worked with municipalities to license operators; they developed an app so city dwellers could order this service and leave feedback for a job well done.  In turn, service providers got decent pay - and so the market works.

 

Their work started approximately 10 years ago, when they were working with WaterAid.  They could see that while latrine coverage in the country was going up, the problem of sludge was not actually being addressed.  So, they started piloting urban-based sewage treatment systems and things have progressed very well since then.

 

Paul also sheds light on his career trajectory.  He’s an engineer by background and at the start of his career was working in the construction industry in the UK. In his 20s he took a posting with VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) to work in Sudan and he found this experience highly stimulating and full of purpose. He learned much and shifted from a traditional career path, from what he classifies as a construction engineer, in order to become a development engineer.

 

Paul’s key takeaway: It’s all about the team. If you have a motivated team that is ready and willing to work together for a common purpose, then you’re powerful!

 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for guest bios, episode notes and useful resources. Please click the subscribe button and share widely -- thank you!

 

We explore the world of charities and delve into key questions, such as: 

(1) What’s the state of affairs with charities today?  (2) Why are so many charities struggling for funding when many foundations and major donors saw their endowments, net worth and equity portfolios grow so much in 2021?  (3) What’s the public perception of charities and is it well-founded?  (4) Are there too many charities and do they overlap with each other?  (5) Are there parallels to be drawn between the private sector and non-profit sector?  (6) Is it right for charity CEOs and their boards to focus on growth? 

Thank you for downloading this episode of The Do One Better Podcast. For information on more than 150 interviews with remarkable thought-leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship, visit our website at Lidji.org -- Please leave us a rating and a review since it helps others find this show. Thank you!

 

Nick Grono, author of How to Lead Nonprofits and CEO of the Freedom Fund, delves into the unique challenges and responsibilities of nonprofit leadership, offering valuable insights drawn from two decades of experience in the sector.

Grono reflects on the complexities of guiding purpose-driven organizations, contrasting the quantifiable metrics of success in the private sector with the more elusive task of measuring impact in the nonprofit world.

He underscores how nonprofit leaders must grapple with ambiguity, balance diverse stakeholder expectations, and navigate the tensions between aspirational goals and practical realities.

We explore the nuanced role of culture in nonprofit organizations and highlight the transformative potential of a positive, cohesive culture — what he calls a "superpower" — founded on psychological safety.  This environment, where all voices are valued and dissenting perspectives are welcomed, is crucial for fostering innovation and ensuring better decision-making. Grono stresses that such a culture is cultivated by leaders who model vulnerability, acknowledge their mistakes, and create spaces for candid dialogue.

The conversation also explores the thorny issue of impact measurement, which Grono argues is vital despite its inherent challenges. Unlike financial accounting in the corporate world, nonprofit impact is often subjective and context-dependent, demanding greater intentionality and honesty in its evaluation. Grono illustrates these difficulties with examples from his work at the Freedom Fund, noting the pitfalls of oversimplifying metrics like the number of meals served or people rescued, which may fail to capture the broader systemic changes nonprofits aim to effect.

Ultimately, Grono’s insights underscore the unique leadership skills required in the nonprofit sector — an ability to navigate complexity, inspire trust, and build cohesive teams, all while staying anchored to the organization’s mission. His reflections offer lessons not just for nonprofit leaders, but for anyone seeking to understand how to lead with purpose in a rapidly changing world.

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on 250+ case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.  

United Way is the world’s largest privately funded non-profit organisation. It is 133 years old, has 3 million volunteers, 8 million donors and operates across 40 countries – including the UK where they’ve had a presence since 2014. Last year it raised around $5 billion.

 

United Way Worldwide is a social franchise; it owns the brand and sets rules on financial reporting, governance, ethics and inclusivity across 1,800 communities globally.  It also manages relations with the United Nations (UN), the World Economic Forum (WEF), corporates and governments.

 

Brian sheds light on his background. He formally joined United Way as a trainee back in 1981 and has thoroughly enjoyed the journey.  A word of wisdom he likes to share with folks who are just starting out on their careers is simply ‘be prepared to say yes’ – we’re so wired to say no.  So, just say yes.

 

Last year United Way generated around $5 billion in income, which is a remarkable sum.  Brian notes the breakdown of this income is roughly split as follows: 15% from corporations (such as IBM, UPS, FedEx, Samsung and IKEA); 35%-40% from the employees of the 65,000 companies they work with (employees who tend to give via payroll); and the other 50% comes from individuals.

 

United Way has approximately 8 million donors. There are 600 donors who have given $1m+; 40 donors who have given $10m+; and approximately 25,000 donors who are regularly giving $10,000 annually.  The average donor gives $300 per year.  Brian notes that United Way is most effective when it reflects and looks like its community. And, in order for a community to succeed, everyone in that community needs to succeed.

 

When asked about what success looks like for the next 10 years, Brian responds that, for him, inequality is the biggest issue in the world today.  In 10 years from today the world is going to have to be more equitable, more just and cleaner environmentally. This change will either happen through enlightened political, corporate, and non-profit leadership; or it’s going to happen through social unrest.  He is optimistic about how things will shape up for the next 10 years, although he notes he’s less optimistic about the next 18 months.

 

On the issue of COVID-19 around the world: Brian observes that it’s the countries with strong public health systems (countries who look after the health of all their citizens) that are doing much better than places like the US.  Likewise for countries where there’s a strong social contract, a commitment to the common good and where people care about each other – these are the countries that are coping better. For him, the pandemic is wildly instructive in terms of what success looks like in the next 10 years; there needs to be a focus on the common good.

 

There is a great deal of digital transformation and innovation taking place at United Way.  Brian sheds much light on how the organisation has evolved; he provides insight into their traditional business model and how they’re now embracing digital technology to increase efficiency and transparency in their philanthropy.

 

United Way helps to take the resources in a community and to match these with people in need.  The business model at United Way was to pool your money; United Way will then assess who are the best non-profits out there, and then they’ll give them that money and ensure they’re doing a good job, and then they’ll tell the donors about it.

 

However, Brian notes that digital technology is now eliminating the middleman in transactions. So, you don’t necessarily need to go through institutions any longer, you can do it individually. So, what United Way has been working towards is how to build this community exchange without individuals having to come to them as a vertical institution.

 

What United Way has done is build individual donor and volunteer digital profiles. They’re working with Salesforce – building first in workplaces and then beyond – on the ability to build your own profile (what do you care about philanthropically in terms of where you want to give; how you want to volunteer; what you want to advocate) and they’ve taken all of their work in education, income, health, migration etc and they’ve digitised it all. They have also taken all of their impact content and turned it into digital.

 

They’re putting their donors and volunteers together with this content on one platform so they can interact with each other without necessarily going through United Way.

 

Brian notes that if United Way is to go from 8 million donors to, say, 18 million donors, they’re going to have to give up some control as an institution and instead create an environment and a technology ecosystem that allows the donor and the volunteer to get directly to the service provider or even the person who needs help – so that United Way facilitates that process instead of managing it.  Fundamentally, it’s about how can United Way help individuals connect directly to what they want to achieve philanthropically.

 

This digital platform they’ve created with Salesforce is called Philanthropy Cloud; it is now live in around 350 companies in the US and there are around 70,000 people using it.

 

As the users use Philanthropy Cloud, the tech gets smarter. The Salesforce AI (artificial intelligence) is in the tool itself.  Brian has Philanthropy Cloud installed on his phone; it tracks things for him, it makes recommendations for him to read about certain philanthropic topics, it provides stories and information that are relevant to him. 

 

The way Brian describes it is: why can’t the philanthropy on his phone be just like his Spotify account?  Why can’t it watch him use the service and then make suggestions to him – so that’s what Philanthropy Cloud is about. That’s what it does.

 

Brian’s key takeaway for listeners: We need to connect with each other. We’re better together than we are apart; this applies to philanthropy. Let’s be generous; let’s share with each other. If we do this there’s nothing that will stop philanthropy generally, and therefore society.  Brian is increasingly learning that there are so many things he doesn’t know. Appreciating this has allowed him to be freer, to think abut United Way’s work differently; to think about who they might partner with that they wouldn’t have partnered with before.  It’s that old adage: if you hold the bird too tightly in your hand you kill it, and if you open up your hand it flies away; so you have to hold on to these things gently.  United Way now finds its thinking to be much more open.  For those of us in philanthropy – no matter what segment of philanthropy – you have to be open, you have to be willing to learn, you have to be a bit vulnerable and you have to trust more than we trust right now. We have to be open and generous and, if we are, good things will happen!

 

Visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for guest bios, episode notes and useful resources.  Please click the subscribe button on your favourite podcast app and share widely with others. Thank you!

 

World University Service of Canada (WUSC) is a Canada-based organisation dedicated to expanding education, economic and empowerment leadership opportunities for youth in Canada and around the world, with a particular focus on refugees, displaced youth and young women. 

WUSC has its origins in the 1920s and today has a team of approximately 15 staff in Canada and a strong presence in the frontlines of the developing world. They’re actively supporting refugees from eastern Africa – Uganda, northern Kenya, Malawi – and the Middle East – Syria and Iraqi refugees based in Jordan and Lebanon.  They’ve done some work in Myanmar and are exploring needs in Latin America.

We also hear how their current operations are being negatively impacted by the global COVID-19 pandemic. For instance, they were due to assist 140 refugees to come to Canada for the start of the 2020/2021 academic year but that’s on hold for now due to the spread of the novel coronavirus. 

Chris provides useful insight into the difference between the opportunities available in many developed countries, such as Canada, and countries of first asylum – the countries where refugees first go – which are usually in the global south and often struggle to provide higher education opportunities for their own populations, even without any refugees in the equation. 

The pathway to higher education for refugees is full of challenges. Funding is a hurdle; scholarships are often restricted to specific countries of origin, religion, age; the equivalency of academic qualifications is not always straight forward to assess; university admissions processes can be cumbersome for many reasons; and even in the final country of destination incoming refugees may experience xenophobia, racism and many cultural challenges.  WUSC tries to assist refugees to overcome all of these challenges. 

WUSC is fortunate to engage with like-minded organisations, such as the Shapiro Foundation.  Chris notes how Ed Shapiro is a philanthropist who is interested in expanding opportunities for refugees. He has engaged with a number of charities, both in terms of helping expand the work going on in Canada and, also, in exploring how Canada can share its expertise to help the work being undertaken elsewhere. 

WUSC has been working very closely with the UNHCR (the UN Refugee Agency) around expanding education pathways for refugees globally. They’re part of a global effort to share and develop capacities in other countries to do this kind of work. Chris sheds light on a report WUSC prepared in conjunction with UNHCR and UNESCO ("Doubling Our Impact: third country higher education pathways for refugees" – Feb 2020) which is useful reading for anyone interested in making an impact in this space. 

The key takeaway Chris shares with listeners: Think about the challenges that you’re trying to address, at the scale commensurate with the challenge itself. This has been a key piece for WUSC as they think of the growth of their own programming.

Please click the subscribe button on your podcast app and visit The Do One Better! Podcast website for guest bios, episode notes and useful links. 

 

OutcomesX is transforming social impact into an investible asset. They’re creating the infrastructure to standardise, price, trade and verify social impact credits, and building a marketplace to buy and sell social outcomes.

We explore their innovative work and also take a look at the disconnect between growth in ESG funds and stagnation in the drive to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Thank you for downloading this episode of the Do One Better Podcast. Visit our Knowledge Hub at Lidji.org for information on nearly 200 case studies and interviews with remarkable leaders in philanthropy, sustainability and social entrepreneurship.