People Inspired By Purpose - Purposely Podcast (Mark Longbottom )

Muzafar Ali is a former refugee from Afghanistan. He is currently living in Adelaide, where he is a student at the University of South Australia. He is also Program Director at Cisarua Learning. In Afghanistan, Muzafar worked for several United Nations in organisations. His work spanned around disbandment of illegal armed groups and promoting human rights values. It was the nature of his work that took him to remote and unseen parts of Afghanistan, where he saw the authentic beauty, and met villagers where he took most of his photographs. Thus he became one of first generation of you Afghan photographers to show hidden beauty of Afghanistan. His photographs represent vibrance of Afghan people and land. His solo and collaborative photo exhibitions have been organised in Afghanistan, Australia, South Korea, United States, United Kingdom, Indonesia, Canada and Holland. As a refugee, Muzafar co-founded the first refugee-managed school (Cisarua Refugee Learning Centre) in West Java, Indonesia. Muzafar is a passionate refugee advocate. The main area of his work is around 'right and access to education' for refugees. He regularly speaks to Australian communities and institutions, and advocates about refugees and refugee rights. Jolyon has spent much of the last 15 years living and working in Washington DC, Nigeria, Indonesia and Nepal. His latest film, feature documentary 'The Staging Post', helped inspire a refugee-led education revolution in Indonesia and raised over $500,000 to support that community. It was the 13th most successful documentary in Australian cinemas over 2017 and 2018. Other work includes; music videos and a concert film for Thievery Corporation, a one hour documentary for one of the world’s biggest gaming companies, Bethesda Softworks and Aceh - Ten Years After the Tsunami, which is now on permanent display at the Aceh Tsunami Museum. In Nepal, he was on the jury and presented at the Kathmandu International Mountain Film Festival and Nepal International Film Festival. He is the founder of the Australian Charity, Cisarua Learning. cisarualearning.com lightsoundartfilm.com

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic.

This weeks episode features Wayne Howett CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities sharing how he approaches his organisations mission and how he draws on his own lived experience.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode that features one of our friends or past guests sharing their expertise on a specific topic.

This week's episode features Susanne Ritzenhoff Director of Toi Ora Live Art Trust. In this bonus episode of Purposely, Suzanne discusses her experiences with dyslexia, which she inherited from her father.

She recounts the challenges she faced as a child, such as writing words in multiple ways, and how her mother struggled to understand. Suzanne emphasises the importance of resilience and using technology to aid in learning. She highlights the role of supportive family members, particularly her father and older siblings, in maintaining her self-esteem. Suzanne also notes the unique perspective and problem-solving skills that dyslexia can bring, suggesting it might be a superpower rather than a disadvantage.

Welcome to Purposely with Em Lewis, CEO of Nikau Foundation. Originally from the UK, Em is a skilled fundraiser and relationship builder who initially aspired to have a career in the arts. However, after working as a street fundraiser in London in the 90s, she decided to dedicate her professional life to philanthropy and fundraising. Em started by combining her passion for the arts with a role at the renowned Tate Gallery and later with roles leading Universities.

While street fundraising can be challenging for many due to the number of passers-by who ignore or reject approaches, Em found it invigorating. She discovered that not only was she exceptionally good at it, but it also taught her valuable early lessons on how to engage people and how to separate any personal feelings of rejection from the cause she was promoting.

Established in 1991 and inspired by a global movement, Nikau (originally known as Wellington Community Foundation) was the first community foundation in New Zealand. Today, Wellington is located at the bottom of New Zealand's North Island, and there are now 17 community foundations throughout the country. Each foundation works to make a positive and lasting impact within their respective regions.

Collectively, these foundations have distributed over $50 million in the last five years, with a national asset base of over $230 million.

Nikau Foundation serves as a guardian of $32 million, which has been invested by donors to support local communities in the future. Additionally, Nikau operates as a Corporate Trustee for existing funds and trusts, providing valuable guidance on regional needs. Two notable foundations they work with are the Mark Dunajtschik Foundation and The Michael and Suzanne Borrin Foundation.

The community foundation movement has a rich history. It originated in the United States at the beginning of the 20th century, with the establishment of the first community foundation in Cleveland, Ohio, by Frederick Goff, a local banker and entrepreneur (Sacks 2014). Initially, community foundations were marketed as a means for banks to serve their local communities, and after the success of the Cleveland Foundation in 1914, similar foundations quickly emerged in the 22 largest cities in the United States.

Welcoming Catherine Ind Head of the St. James's Place Charitable Foundation to Purposely where she shares their charitable mission as well as her personal journey.

Catherine's career path took an unconventional route, starting as a ski resort representative in France before transitioning to charity fundraising, ultimately leading to her current role at the helm of one of the UK's largest corporate foundations.

 

A proud Northerner Catherine, originally from Burnley now resides in the Cotswolds living minutes from the St. James's Place Headquarters. After earning an honours degree in business from De Montfort University in London, Catherine started in PR and marketing before transitioning to charity fundraising. Her experience includes roles at Meningitis Trust and a three-year stint at children's grief charity Winston's Wish, where she also served as acting CEO for a year.

 

Since its establishment in 1992 by SJP founders Mike Wilson and Sir Mark Weinberg, the St. James's Place (SJP) Charitable Foundation has become one of the leading corporate foundations in the UK. Over three decades, it has donated more than £130 million to hundreds of worthy causes, supporting transformational change in lives across the UK and overseas.

 

Appointed as Head of the Foundation in 2018, Catherine brings both expertise and passion to her role. In her Purposely Podcast conversation, she offers valuable insights into the Foundation's unique model and its far-reaching impact.

 

The SJP Charitable Foundation concentrates its efforts on four core areas: supporting disadvantaged children and young people, hospices, cancer support charities, and mental health. What distinguishes it from other corporate foundations is its deep integration with the company culture. As Catherine explains, "Unlike other corporate foundations, it's not an endowment fund. It's very much an integrated part of the business."

This integration is evident in the remarkable participation of SJP's community of over 10,000 partners and employees. An impressive 80% contribute through regular payroll giving, accounting for a third of the Foundation's annual income. This collective approach has enabled the Foundation to directly support 3.5 million people, with 66% reporting substantial or transformative change in their lives.

 

The Foundation's success stems from its ability to harness the collective power of the SJP community. From company-wide fundraising events to skills-based volunteering, it fosters a shared sense of purpose that extends beyond financial contributions. Catherine emphasises the importance of this approach: "By pooling those monies, we can really invest in some smaller charities who are phenomenal, those grassroots charities that we all know in wherever we live."

 

Under Catherine's leadership, the Foundation continues to evolve, adapting to changing needs while remaining true to its core mission. The team focuses on maximising impact through multi-year funding, supporting core costs, and maintaining open dialogues with grantees. Recent evaluations show that 79% of beneficiaries report substantive or transformative change, a testament to the effectiveness of their approach.

 

Case Study: The Foundation's Support of Onside Youth Zones

 

One shining example of the Foundation's impactful work is its support of Onside Youth Zones. Catherine shares her enthusiasm for this partnership:

 

"Onside are really transforming youth provision in communities and disadvantaged communities. Us partnering with them to really help them deliver their goal, which is to have a youth zone in all communities across the UK, we are seeing absolutely that transformation, changing lives for the better for the youngsters who use these facilities."

 

Jamie Masraff, CEO of Onside Youth Zones and a previous guest on Purposely (Episode #151: 'Stepping up to the role of CEO')

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic.

This weeks episode features Malindi MacLean CET at Outward Bound NZ.

Introducing Richard Spackman, the CEO of the Aoraki Foundation, who recently shared his journey and the foundation’s mission on Purposely Podcast. Richard grew up in an entrepreneurial environment, with his parents managing various businesses, from service stations to ostrich farming. This upbringing instilled in him a strong understanding of business and a passion for innovation. Richard has demonstrated his leadership and entrepreneurial skills both in his business ventures and in his philanthropic endeavours, where he now strives to deliver greater impact through the foundation.

The Aoraki Foundation is one of 18 Community Foundations in New Zealand. Their main goal is to provide “a simple and lasting way for people to support charitable causes in the South Canterbury Community,” Richard explains. The foundation’s model of smarter giving ensures that every donation has a significant impact now and in the future.

The foundation manages over 20 separate endowment funds, including the South Canterbury Health Endowment Fund, Miller General Impact Fund, and Fraser Ross Environmental Fund. These funds support numerous community groups and charities, addressing various needs within South Canterbury. Donors can make one-time contributions or leave gifts in their will.

Richard proudly shares the foundation’s role in major fundraising efforts, such as those for the CBay Aquatic Centre and the MRI Scanner. With guidance from dedicated volunteer trustees, the Aoraki Foundation is committed to strengthening the district.

Richard’s path to the Aoraki Foundation leadership began in 2012 when he moved from Christchurch to manage a business. His family fell in love with South Canterbury, and after traveling New Zealand and the Cook Islands in 2020, they decided to focus on community engagement upon their return.

Richard’s natural ability to connect with people and his belief in the power of giving make him a perfect fit for the foundation. Balancing his role with coaching local businesses and spending time with his family, Richard also enjoys sports, often attending rugby and cricket matches or cycling through Timaru’s beautiful rural landscapes.

Aiming to distribute $1 million annually by 2030 and manage $30 million in assets, Richard emphasises the role of community foundations in fostering local philanthropy and the importance of storytelling to engage donors. His background in business and coaching informs his leadership, focusing on growth and sustainability. He highlights the Eric and Queenie Miller fund, a significant legacy supporting local transport businesses, and his vision for the foundation to become a major community asset by 2050.

Richard’s story is one of dedication, community spirit, and a relentless pursuit of meaningful impact. His interview on Purposely Podcast offers valuable insights into the power of community foundations and the incredible potential they hold for positive change.

David Downs joins Purposely to share his story. David is an optimist, driven by purpose who is dedicated to serving others. Nominated for 'New Zealander of the Year' he is the ultimate multi-tasker and over achiever. 

David is a cancer survivor who overcame the odds to beat a form of blood cancer that had affected his lymphatic system. A terminal prognosis from his doctor had given him only a year to live, however, ‘a series of lucky breaks’ gave him access to a drug trial in the USA. The treatment, revolutionary CAR T-cell therapy, saved his life . David has always talked freely about his cancer and wrote a column in a newspaper sharing details of his journey. It was this publicity that helped him to access the life-saving drug trial. He has written a book on his cancer (A Mild Touch of the Cancer - now a documentary film) and he spends many hours supporting and advocating for people with the disease.

We look back at the start of his career and how his Irish roots played a fundamental role in shaping his beliefs and values, as well as his career. Humour and performing played a significant role in his household growing up, he starting out as a comedian, then actor and eventually opened his own venue, The Comedy Club in Auckland.

David is now CEO of The New Zealand Story, an ambitious government-funded organisation marketing New Zealand to the world. Previously, David was a General Manager at New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) for 10 years, working with the Technology sector to help fast growing tech companies grow internationally. 

At the beginning of the Covid-19 lockdown, David co-founded sosbusiness.nz - a not-for-profit initiative to help bars, cafes and other small businesses sell vouchers. It quickly became a huge hit and to date has sold over $2 million in vouchers for over 2500 small businesses. All the money goes to the businesses. Based on that experience, he published a book about the innovation that happened during Covid-19 in New Zealand, ’Silver Linings’, published by Penguin Random House.

David studied at Massey University, the University of Auckland and Stanford University, and regularly presents and gives talks on his cancer journey and on the power of positive thinking and optimism.

Michael Stevens joins Purposely to share his founder story developing and launching the Rainbow Tick. Michael’s mission was to support the rainbow community in a tangible way, helping the community to gain acceptance and inclusion in the workplace and he had seen similar initiatives abroad. ‘It was about positively impacting people’s mental health and about accepting and valuing people in the workplace, embracing the diversity of sexual and gender identities.’ The first programme of its kind in New Zealand, organisations undertake an accreditation process carried out by an independent assessor receiving the Rainbow Tick a visible sign that business embraces all genders and sexual identities. As a gay man, Michael knew from personal experience how important this initiative would be for future generations. Michael initially struggled to accept his own sexual identity and had to deal with a school culture that wasn’t fully inclusive or accepting. In 1988 Michael was diagnosed as HIV+, he was 27 years old and living in Istanbul, Turkey. The following years were filled with anger, sadness, sickness and acceptance, as he believed he had only a few years to live. That was nearly 30 years ago. Now, he’s in his 60’s. ‘I spent so long thinking about and planning my own death during those years, although it didn’t happen’ In 1988, the HIV/Aids epidemic was sweeping the world. many of his gay friends began to talk about it, and when his flatmate in Istanbul tested positive he decided he should get tested too. Michael travelled to London to receive his test. The doctor at the clinic told him he had HIV, and advised him to go home to New Zealand and prepare to die within the next two years. ‘I felt absolutely devastated and I went into a deep depression, but I decided I wasn’t ready to go home, so I returned to Istanbul.’ ‘When I told my family, they were upset for me of course, but fully supportive. I know a lot of people were cut off, but luckily for me this wasn’t the case.’ In the next few years, Michael said he didn’t feel too bad, but in 1993, he received the news one of his closest friends who was diagnosed around the same time as him, had died. ‘I figured if he'd now died from it, I probably didn’t have much time left. So I decided to go home for his funeral and prepare for my own.” The next year, Stevens became sick. He contracted tuberculosis and Pneumocystis pneumonia, a type of pneumonia often associated with a weakened immune system caused by HIV. He lost a large amount of weight in a short span of time and was constantly tired. He could no longer walk up the stairs at work without getting out of breath. It was at this stage he was told his HIV had progressed to its final stage, known as AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). Michael was in his thirties at this point. Michael was admitted to the ‘AIDS ward’ of Auckland Hospital but later released to Herne Bay House, a residential centre and hospice dedicated to caring for people diagnosed with HIV. Michael believed this is where he was going die. “I had been very angry and bitter about the situation up until this point. My attitude almost got me thrown out of the hospice, but eventually, I came more to terms with it and began to plan my death” Today he describes how the stigma has really decreased around having HIV, it has become much less pronounced as many people have a better understanding of it. “A lot of it was just fear really, people were afraid, and they didn’t understand why it was happening” “If you think of the friends you make in your late teens and early 20s, they’re often the friends that are with you for life. “Nearly all of my gay friends had HIV, and so many died. So many gay men from my youth are not here to turn 60 with me” Michael currently works as a relationship manager for Be.Lab a New Zealand based organisation which helps businesses and organisations to be more accessible. Prior to this he has was part of the AKL Uni Sociology Department.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic.

This weeks episode features Sarah Manley CEO of the Sir John Kirwan Foundation.

Welcome Sarah Vibert, the CEO of the National Council of Volunteer Organisations (NCVO), a charity that has been supporting thousands of voluntary and community sector charities and non-profits in England for over 100 years. Sarah joined NCVO in January 2020 as director of membership and engagement and was later appointed as Chief Executive in early 2022.

As a child, Sarah always aspired to lead an organisation, and now she is living her dream. She strives to be a relatable CEO who leads with empathy, transparency, and openness. This is evident in NCVO's commitment to publishing the salaries of its senior leadership team, along with an explanation of why they are paid that amount. According to Sarah, transparency is a critical value for NCVO, as it helps the organisation build trust with its donors and the public.

Sarah's personal experience growing up with a younger sibling who was disabled was a driving force behind her decision to work in the charity sector. She feels a strong connection to the mission of organisations like the Epilepsy Society and The Neurological Alliance, which she previously led, as they go beyond her professional responsibilities.

Before joining NCVO, Sarah held various roles in the charity sector, including advising the now King of the United Kingdom, then HRH Prince of Wales, on his charitable entities, as well as working for In Kind Direct. She began her career in local government management, including working for the Mayor of London.

Despite her busy schedule, Sarah finds time to volunteer for the Parent Teacher Association at her son's primary school. She has also previously served as a trustee for National Voices and The Brain and Spine Foundation.

Sarah's unique background and experience make her an asset to NCVO and the wider charity sector. Her leadership style, which emphasizes transparency, empathy, and relatability, sets a positive example for other leaders to follow.

Kirsty Green–Mann joins Purposely Podcast to share her expertise on responsible business. 

Kirsty is Head of Corporate Responsibility at Burges Salmon LLP, a Bristol based independent law firm, that thanks to Kirsty’s leadership skills in the field of CSR, has recently won awards for its innovative and impactful approach to responsible business.

This is a great episode for anyone involved in strategy build, Kirsty outlines some wonderful steps to ensure success. 

I first met Kirsty when we were judges on a dragon’s den style panel assessing innovative and impactful community change projects, projects created and run by disadvantaged young people in Bristol. I know from this experience that Kirsty is passionate about community empowerment, more specifically helping young people to remove barriers to get on in life and be the best versions of themselves.

Kirsty has worked in the corporate sector for 20 plus years with a significant amount of that time focused on sustainability and ensuring better work practices along environmental, social and governance lines. Utilising this vast array of experience Kirsty provides some wonderful insights on how to develop and implement a successful responsible business strategy in a corporate setting. You will learn a lot from Kirsty and be impressed with her ability to engage key stakeholders to make a positive difference.

She is a member of the Institute of Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability and an associate member of the Institute of Environmental Management and Assessment. Kirsty has responsibility for framing and driving the responsible business agenda, leading on community engagement and social mobility, addressing business and human rights all in a global context applying the UN Sustainable Development Goals as a guiding framework.

Rhodri (Rhod) Davies joins Purposely Podcast to share his passion and knowledge on philanthropy and how he started the ‘Why Philanthropy Matters’ a free online platform helping to shape the sector. Rhod is a well-known thinker and commentator on philanthropy and civil society as well as an author and host of the popular Philanthropisms podcast. He is also a Pears Research Fellow in the Centre for Philanthropy at the University of Kent, United Kingdom. He was working as an academic researcher when he stumbled across philanthropy, suddenly seeing the sector in a new light full of ‘drama and interest’ and a plausible career option. Since then Rhod has become a defender and advocate of philanthropy and has gone on to play an important role in shaping the movement. ‘One of the things that bugged me is that philanthropy is often written off as if it's some sort of weird, niche concern, even within the wider nonprofit world. To me, it's something that's kind of pretty fundamental to how society works’. One of the things that characterises Rhod’s thought leadership on philanthropy is his skill and willingness to draw on history and what has happened in the past to make sense of the future. ‘History is an endlessly useful resource, when it comes to thinking about philanthropy in the present’. He describes this as a ‘cheap trick’, he uses to try and ensure that people in the sector do not get carried away with one particular approach to giving. He describes how those seemingly, ‘never been thought of before’, ways of doing philanthropy are in fact developed using lessons from the past. One example he points to is the current focus on purpose driven companies, organisations and businesses who are prioritising a combination of purpose, profit and commercial returns. The tendency is that people pass this off as completely new and highly innovative, despite the fact that people have been doing this for centuries. The same can be said for other forms of doing good or delivering impact today. ‘When you look back to history, and how people kind of combined, making money and giving money away, there's all kinds of interesting lessons and useful warnings about things that we might want to make sure that we avoid in the future’. In 2016 Rhod published Public Good by Private Means: How philanthropy shapes Britain, a book tracing the history of philanthropy in Britain and what it tells us about modern generosity. Since then he has been a self-confessed history of philanthropy nerd, and tweets about it far too much at @Philliteracy. A further characteristic of Rhod’s philanthropy thought leadership is his strongly held belief that there is no right or a wrong way of giving and that philanthropists have the ability to draw on different influences as well as their own beliefs and preferences. Rhod is happy to outline his personal preferences and the approach he would take if he had a windfall and was able to be a large scale philanthropist, ‘I would set myself a target of spending it all in 20 years or something like that and I'd make sure I thought about where I invested the money as well as where I gave it. I would also lean towards using a trust based approach that somebody like MacKenzie Scott is taking’. Rhod was formerly Head of Policy at the Charities Aid Foundation (CAF), where he created and led the in-house think tank Giving Thought, and also hosted CAF’s popular Giving Thought podcast for over 100 episodes. Rhod graduated from Oxford Uni with a first-class degree in Mathematics and Philosophy.

Sponsors:

Benevity https://bit.ly/3k4FTE2

The Giving Department https://bit.ly/3KdYWWU

Liz Greive is the visionary behind Share My Super, a charitable organisation that facilitates donations to support marginalised young people and their families throughout New Zealand. Originally from the Lake District in the United Kingdom, Liz began her career as a social worker, developing a strong sense of justice and a deep passion for helping young people and their families.

Life took Liz on a journey, as she fell in love with her Kiwi husband and moved back and forth between the UK and New Zealand, eventually starting a family and facing the challenges of living off a single income. However, Liz always recognised that the people she helped as a social worker faced even greater hardships.

But Liz's life didn't stand still. Together with her husband, they transformed her family's fortunes and she transitioned from a social worker to a philanthropist, following success in the travel and clothing industries.

As Liz reached retirement age, she received her superannuation (pension money) from the New Zealand government. While this payment is given to almost all New Zealanders, regardless of their means, Liz realized that she didn't need the money. It was at this moment that she had the brilliant idea to start a charity that would enable others in her situation to donate their surplus superannuation payments. This concept would not only benefit the next generation but also supercharge the much-discussed transfer of wealth from the baby boomer generation.

In 2019, Share My Super was officially launched, redirecting surplus superannuation payments from older New Zealanders to charities dedicated to supporting children in need. The charity carefully curates a selection of eleven organizations, allowing donors to choose which charity they want to support. This donor-advised fund ensures that every dollar donated makes a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable youth.

Liz's commitment to the cause is unwavering. She recently pledged $10 million of her own money to cover all administrative costs, guaranteeing the perpetual operation of the charity. Beyond financial contributions, Liz is actively involved in the day-to-day operations of the charity, working closely with her CEO to raise funds and ensure that people's generous donations are put to good use. She also maintains a deep connection with the charities supported by Share My Super, whether it's visiting the offices of Te Pā, an organisation aiding ex-prisoners and their families, or advocating for early intervention programs. Liz's hands-on approach underscores her genuine investment in the well-being of New Zealand's youth. For her, philanthropy is not just about money; it's about building meaningful relationships and creating sustainable change.

Liz Greive has redefined the concept of giving back to society. As Share My Super continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains certain: Liz's legacy will endure as a beacon of hope for generations to come.

Mark Johnson is a rehabilitated offender and former drug user, bestselling author of Wasted and the founder of the charity User Voice. User Voice was built on using the strengths of people and ignoring what others see as deficiencies. User Voice focuses on the strengths of lived experience not on the perceived weaknesses of lack of education, qualifications and professional track record. The lived experience of someone who has experienced drug addiction, or time spent in prison, as expertise.

Steve Wickham joined Purposely to share his founder story with the London based Giving Department. Steve shares details on his ‘carpe diem’ moment, pressing go on his dream company and job despite the uncertainty caused by a global financial crisis and challenges presented by a young family. The ‘for purpose’ agency endures to this day successfully enabling for profit companies to support nonprofit ideals. Steve and his team delight in playing a role in a better society. Prior to this he spent 10 years in the charity sector. As a successful fundraiser Steve worked for a number of charities in senior roles including The Prince’s Trust. Steve shares his passion for the trusts work and details on his funding lunches with Lord Young. Steve is also passionate about helping people to enter the ‘Third Sector’ (nonprofit). These experiences have given Steve a deep understanding of how companies and private funders can best support charities, how effective relationships can be developed, where value can be delivered and how the right support can deliver genuine and long-lasting change. More: Steve founded The Giving Department in 2010 with the clear vision of providing expert independent resource to help companies and philanthropists deliver real social impact and achieve their greatest charitable ambitions. Over the subsequent years Steve has developed the business, working with an increasingly wide portfolio of clients from FTSE100 companies to corporate foundations and private HNW philanthropists. Passionate about the sector, Steve is often called to speak on charitable issues and on occasions provides bespoke mentoring to help individuals build capability and impact.

Simon Lucas joins Purposely to share his founder story launching executive search firm Society.

We hear how Simon stumbled into a career in recruitment in the UK, eventually taking a leadership role in the industry. He innovated when he went out on his own with a distinctly responsible, ethical and sustainable approach to executive search.

Founded by Simon in 2005 Society is a B Corp Certified executive search firm that has a dual focus of both purpose and profit. Now a global company It was set up to add value to society and make a positive difference to people’s lives.

Simon explains his thinking and how the power of meeting people’s needs rather than just sales can lead to commercial success. We hear how his team thrived despite the challenges presented by the pandemic and the long lock down.

Society’s headquarters are in London with offices in the United States and New Zealand. Each year they donate 10% of their profits to good causes through their own Foundation. The foundation is an independent charity dedicated to tackling issues of workforce inclusion.

Simon grew up in South Wales, and read Philosophy and Politics at the University of Warwick. Along the way, he was Head Boy of Olchfa Comprehensive School in Swansea, and President of the Students’ Union at Warwick. Before setting up Society, Simon was an employee of executive search firm Perrett Laver for several years. He is now a founding Trustee of The Society Foundation and a Trustee of Hitchin Girls' School in Hertfordshire. Simon lives in North Hertfordshire with his wife and his two children.  His company website describes him as having, ‘a ridiculously large collection of DVDs and a bit of a history and politics buff, with a soft spot for what he calls 'classic' rock.

Welcome to Purposely Short, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic. This weeks episode features Rupert Abbott Executive Director of GiveOut a community foundation supporting LGBTQI communities. How? They pool donations from donors to provide grants to LGBTQI organisations around the world, ensuring that they have more of the resources they need to defend communities, tackle inequalities and campaign for lasting change. Rupert shares their approach and the practical steps they take to deliver their mission. Episode Highlights Funding the right causes and organisations - their approach to due diligence and how they choose the causes they fund. Building the fund - how they have had success attracting support + donors to build and maintain the fund. A qualified lawyer Rupert has over 15 years’ international human rights and social impact experience. Rupert is also a trustee of the Association of Charitable Foundations UK.

Qiulae Wong Joins Purposely to share her story. A passionate ‘business for good’ advocate Qiulae points to her upbringing, ‘My family really drummed into us the importance of the collective’. ‘It wasn’t about individual gain although that’s not to say they weren’t incredibly hard working and could see the importance of making money’. In many ways this combination of influences helped to get to where she is today. A belief that business success can be measured by profit as well as the positive social and environmental impact. We discuss Qiulae’s return home after a transformative decade in London where she crystallised her career aspirations and became a mum, ‘the UK was great but made less sense when we had our daughter and returning and re connecting with family became a priority’. Quilae is excited to be back home, landing dream job as Head of B Lab New Zealand. ‘I was so excited about the opportunity, I really wanted it and I did a lot of prep for the interviews, almost too much prep which left me a bit sleep deprived’.

Qiulae is B Labs first full-time employee in Aotearoa and the decision to hire reflects the increased popularity of ‘business for good’ with more and more businesses choosing B Corp certification.

B Lab is a nonprofit network transforming the global economy to benefit all people, communities, and the planet. They certify companies — B Corps — who lead the way. They are aiming to build a movement to change our economic system.

B Lab began in the United States in 2006, and the network has grown across the world ever since.

Qiulae will be busy collaborating with businesses, government, and academic institutions to grow the movement.

Welcome to Purposely with Lucas Patchett co-founder and Executive Director of OrangeSky. OrangeSky is a non-profit organisation founded in October 2014 by two friends Lucas and Nicholas Marchesi in Brisbane, Australia. The organisation provides practical support and help to people experiencing homelessness or unstable housing conditions, including showers and laundry services. Their distinctive orange and white vans provide a non-judgmental space for people to talk and connect with others, and they also invite other service providers to give support. OrangeSky has helped over 30,000 "friends" in 9 years and currently has 36 mobile units, run by a blend of professional staff and volunteers. The mission of OrangeSky has evolved from delivering practical support to one focused on connecting communities to people who are homeless or experiencing unstable housing conditions. Lucas stresses that homelessness could happen to anyone and points to the importance of experienced mentors and advisors, including their parents, in the establishment and growth of OrangeSky. He also emphasises the generosity of people in supporting their cause, whether with their time, money, advice, or wisdom. Overall, OrangeSky is a testament to the power of collaboration and the generosity of people in helping those in need. OrangeSky's services go beyond just practical help. They provide a safe and non-judgmental space for people experiencing homelessness to connect with others and access support. The conversations that occur while using the laundry and shower services can lead to valuable connections with other people going through similar experiences or with other service providers who can provide additional support. OrangeSky has been successful in attracting funders who are tired of backing vague and hard-to-measure engagement projects. Lucas outlines the future for OrangeSky, including better use of technology to deliver positive impact and a specific focus on reducing isolation and loneliness. He also has an eye on organizational stability and the future of OrangeSky being less reliant on him and Nicholas on a day-to-day basis. Lucas emphasises that anyone could experience homelessness and that without a support network, it can be easy to fall on tough times. It is truly remarkable to see young people like Lucas and Nic dedicating their time and energy to helping others in such a meaningful way. It takes a lot of courage and determination to step outside of one's own comfort zone and take action to address a pressing social issue like homelessness. Their commitment to providing practical help and creating connections between homeless individuals and support services is truly inspiring. It just goes to show that even a small group of motivated individuals can make a big difference in their community.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic.

This weeks episode features Dale Corlett CEO of Screen to Script.

Philanthropy Advisor Emma Beeston joined Purposely Podcast to share insights into her career, her approach and what it takes to successfully advise people on giving. 

Emma advises foundations, grant-makers and families on creating and implementing giving strategies. She facilitates strategy and learning sessions for teams and families.

How did you get your job?

‘I worked for a number large foundations, initially giving grants to individuals for things like paying for cookers and writing off debt. I ended up working at BBC Children In Need, and then Lloyds Bank Foundation managing their grant programs and I really enjoy that side of things. You get to visit different charities and it's really interesting work. I left because I wanted to challenge myself and I felt I was getting a little bit too comfortable and I wanted to stretch myself. I decided to go freelance although there wasn't really a plan, you could say there still isn't really a plan.  I'm in a very nice position now of being a consultant philanthropy advisor’

What have been the biggest changes in grant making practice?

‘The changes to grant making practice have really been amplified by events of the last year. For so long now fundraisers have quite rightly been complaining about the hoops they have to jump through and the power imbalance where a funder can ask them to do whatever they need them to do to provide whatever information they require. It's really good to see that shift recently and the changes have gained momentum and increased rapidly over the last. Best practice is much more focused on a partnership approach and trust based philanthropy.  Participatory approaches and models are also coming through and all these changes have had a direct and positive impact on philanthropic decisions.’

Emma co-created the Advising Donors module for the University of Kent’s Masters in Philanthropic Giving, lectures on CASS Business School’s Charity Masters Programme and delivers training for the Association of Charitable Foundation’s Professional Development programme. She is a co-founder of a giving circle, Bath Women’s Fund.

Brian Cavanagh joins Purposely to share what it takes to be an impactful and effective trustee on a charity board or a governance committee.

Brian has decades of experience leading Boards in the UK and Ireland that helped him write the book, Governing With Purpose: How to lead a brilliant board.

His inspiration for the book came when he unsuccessfully tried to find useful resources for existing or prospective trustees. He found lots of books on corporate governance of the private sector but very little for trustees of 'for purpose' organisations and charities. This obvious gap in the market motivated Brian to write this book so that he could help others to be effective and impactful non-profit trustees.

Brian outlines what it takes to be a 'brilliant board' as well as an effective trustee and he describes his ethos around governance. Explaining that the Chair of the Board is responsible for the Board while the CEO is responsible for performance and leadership of the organisation.

'Chairs, trustees and CEOs need to understand each other's roles, respect each other's responsibilities and work together towards a common and agreed mission.'

He also gives thoughts on where boards and organisations go wrong and rather than being overly concerned about those headline-hitting organisations, he is more concerned about Boards that are detached from the mission or are in 'cruise mode'.

Brian points to organisations that stumble along, doing quite good work and because nothing has gone wrong there seems no need to intervene at Board or exec levels.

'It's about ensuring the culture of performance of ambition for the board for itself. I think the danger is we focus on crisis and we actually need to support our boards to do the right thing'.

Brian outlines what is most important for charity boards and the people that operate on them.

'It needs to be led by skilled, committed individuals who also good at governing the organisation.'

Brian talks about the intangibles and how important the culture and the day-to-day behaviour of the board, the executive team and the employees is in supporting the vision and the purpose of the charity.

'Do board members challenge each other to be better and how often do they contest opinions, how often do they disagree or debate about the purpose, direction and performance of the charity'.

Brian also calls out 'bad behaviour', pointing to people not turning up, not reading the Board papers and people not asking questions or challenging decisions. Brian believes that a strong sense of purpose combined with a solid structure will provide an effective antidote that will stop any bad behaviour, or at least ensure it is stamped out quickly. A strong sense of purpose for why the Board exists, why it includes the people it does and what role will it be performing and what responsibilities will it be taking on in the future.

'So it’s imperative trustees ask themselves, why was the charity set up in the first place?, what is trying to achieve and what is the purpose of the Board they have been asked to join?'.

Brian also stresses that it is fundamentally important that people join Boards for the right reasons, 'not just as a favour to a friend’, but rather because they believe in the cause, believe they can contribute by utilising their skills and experience and they have the time and space to commit to the meetings and actions.

Brian's book Governing with Purpose is an essential resource for people on Boards or those considering joining a Board.

Sponsors: 

Benevity https://bit.ly/3k4FTE2

The Giving Department https://bit.ly/3KdYWWU

Welcome to Derek Bardowell, CEO of Ten Years’ Time, an agency focused on racial justice and social transformation. Derek is also an author, philanthropy commentator, and charity trustee. He has written and published two books, his first book, "No Win Race," explored racism in sport and his second book, "Giving Back: How To Do Good Better," published in 2022, critiqued philanthropy. The book explored new ways of giving that can bring about real and meaningful change, and dramatically increase positive impact.

One reader described "Giving Back" as "Important and timely... Deeply felt and illuminating... Essential reading for everyone committed to fairness and equality in life."

In this episode of Purposely, Derek shares his career journey that started as a music journalist and his experiences growing up in the UK, where he faced aggressive and direct forms of racism like being spat at in the street, as well as more subtle but damaging forms that affected his confidence and self-esteem.

Derek discusses how being a young black man limited his career options, but at the same time, it made him more determined to succeed as a freelance music journalist and work for himself. He transitioned his career to one of purpose and helping young people to reach their full potential, initially in his own area of East London, where he grew up by delivering a 'get into' journalism course.

Derek has held various roles in charities, including direct service delivery programs aimed at empowering people and making their lives better. He also worked for the Stephen Lawrence Foundation, a UK charity set up and named after 18-year-old Stephen who was brutally murdered in a race-motivated act of violence in April 1993.

Derek's frustration with the funding experience during his years of delivering services led him to switch to the funding sector.  He moved to a charitable foundation and began making decisions about who should receive the funds and for what charitable project. He discusses the disconnect that often exists between those with money and those working to bring about change, and how the scarcity and fragility of funding can negatively impact vulnerable young people who have been bounced around from different social services and arrive at a charity looking for support.

Derek's life journey and his professional experiences in the charity sector have informed his writing as well as his thought leadership. He challenges the philanthropy sector, individuals, and organisations to consider their roles and how their behaviours and ways of working may be maintaining or furthering injustice.

Tara Arnold lost her first born son Buddy in July 2017, tragically he was stillborn.

Tara joins Purposely Podcast to share her story and how she recovered from her ‘catastrophic trauma’. Her deep grief propelled her to start a social enterprise, helping others who have also lost a baby. Tara has gone on to have a second child, a little girl who is now one year old.

Nova Foundation, the charity set up to honour Buddy’s memory, provides support so that other parents do not have to deal with the loss of a baby alone. The lack of therapeutic support she received was a motivator for Tara, she realised how little bereavement or trauma support was available to parents who lose a newborn.

Nova educates parents to understand the difference between trauma and bereavement and ensures that traumatised parents receive the support and understanding they need to rehabilitate into their ‘new normal’.

Nova Foundation’s vision is a world without babyloss. The mission is to ensure that every parent who experiences babyloss receives immediate comfort, trauma and bereavement support for as long as they need, as well as anxiety and practical support in any subsequent pregnancies.

Bridget Williams joined Purposely Podcast to share her inspirational founder story. Bridget had the courage to leave her career as a lawyer to help solve the world’s biggest problems one colourful bead at a time! In 2019, ‘after two years of sitting on the idea and testing with friends’ Bridget launched social enterprise, Bead & Proceed, which exists to educate people about the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and inspire action towards them through creativity. Her passion for sustainability and using creativity as a tool for innovation drove her to launch the enterprise and has made her a recognised SDGs expert, assisting businesses and organisations with SDG strategic alignment and target reporting. Her efforts have been recognised and endorsed by the Rt. Hon. Helen Clark and the JCI Osaka Outstanding Young Person’s Programme. More than 5,500 participants have attended their SDG workshops or purchased Bead & Proceed Kits. Bead & Proceed has grown to offer tailored SDG workshops and ongoing SDG consulting for businesses interested in growing their impact. They work with all types of businesses from corporates to councils, universities, professional service firms, schools and other leading businesses in agriculture and tourism sectors. Bead & Proceed Kit produce kits, it is their foundational product and kick-started Bead & Proceed. The Kit caters to 7 people and serves as a creative activity to educate participants on the SDGs, each person comes away with a 5-beaded necklace, keyring or bracelet that represents the top 5 SDGs they want to work towards. While users paint and make, they ideate innovative way to achieve their chosen goals and have a tangible tool that anchors their learning. Their Kits are SDG aligned and for every Kit purchased, another is donated to a low decile school or deserving community organisation to help spread SDG awareness.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode that features one of our friends or past guests sharing their expertise on a specific topic.

This week's episode features Paul Brown, Managing Director at Boardworks and Executive Director of Emergency Alliance NZ. With a wealth of experience in governance and board leadership, Paul provides useful insights into what makes a strong and effective non-profit board.

• The Importance of Board Dynamics: Paul explains why good relationships and teamwork on a board are vital for the success of charities.

• Governance and Leadership: A look at the challenges of governance in the non-profit sector and how boards can stay focused on their mission and purpose.

• Balancing Skills and Lived Experience: The importance of having board members with the right skills alongside those with real-life experience of the charity’s work.

• Defining Board vs. Management Roles: Paul highlights why it’s important to separate the roles of the board and the management team so that boards focus on strategy rather than daily operations.

• Common Governance Challenges: Discussing typical issues faced by non-profit boards, such as staying on track with their mission and handling personal liability concerns.

Listen in to hear Paul’s practical advice on how to make boards more effective and why good governance matters. Whether you’re a charity leader, a board member, or just interested in governance, this episode is full of useful tips and ideas.

Enjoy the episode and be inspired by Paul Brown’s passion for improving governance in the non-profit sector.

Sarah Page joins Purposely Podcast to share her founder story starting the Kindness Collective Foundation (KCF). It began with Sarah bringing together a small group of people wanting to do good in the community, their vision to help build a kinder New Zealand.  The collective is now a registered charity with a network of over 10,000 people including active donors, volunteers, brands and businesses. Described by Sarah as ‘quite simply a match-making service’, matching those in need with those who have more to share. They make it easy for people, brands and businesses to help kiwis in need. They work with schools, early childhood education centres, social services, community groups and other charities to donate time, tools, resources and money. KCF point to the poverty and family violence statistics that continue to climb in New Zealand. 1 in 5 children experience hardship, and at least 33% of New Zealanders experience some form of food insecurity. Sarah believes in the power of communities helping each other to offer creative resource solutions to the many problems families face in society. Before the Kindness Collective, Sarah worked in Marketing and PR for many years within hospitality, music industries and corporate event management. Working with bars, nightclubs and restaurant groups with their marketing, music, events and PR strategies. Sarah started the Kindness Collective in 2014 with a mobile food bank operation delivering food to a local Women’s Refuge group and has grown the charity to what it is now. Sarah has big plans for the Kindness Collective to impact the lives of as many people as possible in Aotearoa.

Lisa Gagliani MBE, the CEO of Independent Arts, has embarked on a remarkable career journey driven by a sense of purpose. Her professional path has evolved from an initial interest in the food industry to roles within the enterprise landscape, where she supported businesses, and eventually, she transitioned into leadership roles within non-profit organisations.

Throughout her career, Lisa has worn various hats, from leading prominent national charities to her current role as the leader of a small arts charity on the Isle of Wight. Renowned as a 'straight shooter,' she is deeply passionate about her work and takes pride in her versatile, hands-on approach to charity leadership.

Lisa's journey started with a dual-subject degree in home economics and philosophy of education, igniting her fervour for nutrition and education. She initially delved into the food industry, working for a health food company that placed a strong emphasis on nutritious products. Her zeal for promoting healthy eating and improving dietary choices played a pivotal role in shaping her professional journey.

During a period of her career, Lisa's role involved supporting Tupperware distributors, offering her invaluable insights into empowering small local businesses and the dynamics of franchising.

However, as her family's priorities shifted, she revaluated her career. No longer willing to spend extended periods away from home, she dedicated a fulfilling decade to working at the Kingston Chamber of Commerce. Throughout this period, Lisa's entrepreneurial spirit and ardent commitment to supporting businesses and enterprise became unmistakably evident.

A pivotal moment in her career unfolded when she joined Bright Ideas Trust, an organisation with a core focus on nurturing young entrepreneurs. Her impactful contributions significantly empowered disadvantaged youth, enabling them to venture into entrepreneurship and establish their businesses.

Lisa's commitment to the charity sector earned her an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire). The recognition highlighted her contributions, particularly her role in leading a charity that empowered disadvantaged young individuals to launch their enterprises. Although the charity, Bright Ideas Trust, is no longer in operation, its legacy remains indelible.

Reflecting on the unforgettable MBE award ceremony, Lisa recalls, "Receiving the MBE was a truly unexpected honour. In a brief one-on-one exchange, Her Majesty (the Queen) likened my work to what Prince Charles does, referencing the Prince's Trust and its support for small businesses. It was a delightful moment."

Subsequently, Lisa took on the role of CEO at the Childhood Trust, dedicating just over two years to London's child poverty charity. Her role was dedicated to alleviating the impact of poverty on children and young people in the capital.

Today, as the CEO of Independent Arts, Lisa continues her mission to empower vulnerable individuals and foster connections through the arts on a very local level on the Isle of Wight where she lives. Her primary focus, along with her team, revolves around enhancing well-being, reducing social isolation, and improving the overall quality of life.

Beyond her professional achievements, Lisa enjoys a fulfilling personal life, marked by marriage to a professional landscape painter and the pride of being a mother to two grown sons and two cherished small dogs.

Rosie Mead joined Purposely Podcast to share her founder story Rosie combined her interest in music and dementia to start a successful social enterprise focused on improving the lives of vulnerable people. She shares her founder story launching UK social enterprise Musica in 2010 and outlines the benefits of listening to and interacting with live music for people with dementia, their carers and their families. She also shares details on her passion for music through her clarinet play and performances as well as her recent discovery of vinyl records at the same time some of the worlds leading artists like Bowie, Coldplay, The Cure and the Eeels. We talk the wonder of playlists also, both for their dementia work and her own personal love for playlists. Rosie talks about the challenge of the pandemic and how that negatively effected both their finances as well as their mission to help people in care homes (the worst hit by the early outbreak of the corona virus). However, she also talks about pivoting their programmes online to help reach people and take their brilliance to an international audience. Rosie is also engaging people online sharing favourite music. Musica’s work is underpinned by extensive research and Rosie describes how she believes more and more care homes will embed music into care plans Rosie is an award winner and has been named a Woman of Inspiration in this year’s top 100 WISE (Women in Social Enterprise) list. WISE 2020, in partnership with NatWest, focussed this year on how these stars of the social enterprise world had adapted to COVID-19 and showed it “who’s boss”. https://musica-music.co.uk

Welcoming Shaun Robinson, CEO of the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand to Purposely Podcast.

Shaun brings both professional expertise and personal experience to his role. Having lived with bipolar disorder, Shaun understands the challenges it brings and is committed to improving mental health support for all New Zealanders.

As CEO, Shaun is dedicated to enhancing mental wellbeing across Aotearoa. Under his leadership, the Foundation works towards a society where people do more than just cope—they thrive. Mental health, in his view, is not simply about the absence of illness but about fostering optimism, engagement, and a sense of purpose.

Shaun promotes a shift away from the traditional model of treating symptoms and towards a proactive approach—empowering communities with the skills and knowledge to build lasting mental wellbeing. This perspective is captured in the idea of flourishing versus languishing: flourishing means feeling positive, connected, and engaged, while languishing is marked by a sense of emptiness and disconnection. His goal is to help as many people as possible reach a state of flourishing.

Shaun is a strong advocate for practical, everyday actions that support mental health. The "Five Ways to Wellbeing" offer a simple yet effective framework:

Connect – Build strong relationships and a sense of belonging.

Give – Acts of kindness not only help others but also enhance your own sense of purpose.

Take Notice – Be present and appreciate life’s small moments.

Move – Physical activity benefits both body and mind.

Keep Learning – Stay curious and open to new ideas.

These principles are more than just concepts for Shaun—they are part of his daily life. He even keeps a magnet with the Five Ways to Wellbeing on his fridge as a constant reminder.

Shaun’s experience with bipolar disorder has profoundly shaped his leadership and advocacy. He first noticed symptoms in his teens but was only diagnosed in his mid-30s. Living with bipolar has been both a challenge and, at times, a strength—giving him bursts of energy and focus that he channels into his work.

Managing his condition has required a combination of medication, lifestyle habits, and strong support networks. This lived experience enables him to lead with authenticity and empathy, helping to break down stigma and foster understanding. By openly sharing his journey, Shaun reassures others that they are not alone and that mental health challenges do not define a person’s potential.

Shaun believes that everyone deserves access to the resources and support needed to live a fulfilling life, regardless of their mental health challenges. Through his leadership, the Mental Health Foundation continues to champion a holistic, strengths-based approach—one that encourages people to take proactive steps toward wellbeing rather than waiting until they are struggling.

His story is a powerful reminder that mental health is a journey, not a destination. By fostering connection, resilience, and a culture of support, Shaun is helping to build a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

The Five Ways to WellbeingA Personal Perspective on Mental HealthA Vision for a Thriving Society

Introducing Rupert Abbott, Executive Director of GiveOut, a UK-based community foundation dedicated to supporting people's human rights, people whose rights have been denied because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Rupert is a passionate advocate for the human rights movement, having started his career as a trainee solicitor and now leading the way for individuals who seek to make a positive impact on people's lives. Rupert shares his personal journey as a gay man and his extensive career, which has taken him across the globe, with a notable focus on Cambodia and his latest role as a philanthropy leader.

Established in 2018 by founder and current Chair Elliot Vaughn MBE, GiveOut is committed to global human rights activism. They actively search for initiatives and opportunities, conduct due diligence, and pool funds from generous donors to support these efforts. GiveOut has successfully funded almost 40 organisations worldwide. Their impactful work was recognised early on when they received a new charity breakout award, acknowledging their unique and innovative approach to cause-focused philanthropy.

GiveOut's mission is to foster the growth of support for LGBTQI human rights globally. Unfortunately, in many countries, LGBTQI individuals face severe human rights abuses simply for being themselves. Rupert discusses a recent example, the alarming situation in Uganda, where a new law has been passed, imposing harsh jail terms and even the death penalty for same-sex relations. However, he emphasises that there are remarkable organisations in nearly every country tirelessly working to defend LGBTQI individuals, address inequalities, and advocate for lasting change. He highlights the fact that these organisations often suffer from severe underfunding, receiving only a minuscule fraction of international development aid—just four cents for every $100 provided by governments. Rupert further points out that, concurrently, the religious right invests substantial resources into organisations and movements that oppose equality and human rights.

GiveOut's role is to channel more resources into the LGBTQI movement through collaboration with individuals, allies, and corporations, making it easier for them to support LGBTQI rights activism worldwide.

Rupert brings over 15 years of experience in human rights and developing not-for-profit organisations. He co-founded RightsStart, a hub for human rights experts, and has held senior positions with organisations such as the Human Rights House Foundation, Amnesty International, the United Nations Assistance to the Khmer Rouge Trials, and the Cambodian Centre for Human Rights. Rupert also serves as an Advisor to the Future Forum think tank in Southeast Asia and on the Supervisory Board of Climate Counsel, an organisation dedicated to pursuing environmental and climate justice through international criminal law.

Additionally, Rupert is a trustee of the Association of Charitable Foundations and a Venture Board member of Ashoka.

Introducing Lance Kawaguchi, CEO of Cure Brain Cancer Foundation (CBCF). Lance's personal journey in the fight against cancer began in 2016 when his family was unexpectedly affected by the disease. The devastating news came in the form of a tearful call from his usually composed father, informing him of his mother Katherine's Stage 4 pancreatic cancer diagnosis. With a prognosis of just a few months to live, Lance's world was turned upside down.

Driven by his personal experience, Lance embarked on a mission to make a difference in the fight against cancer. After conducting extensive research on causes and organisations, he was appointed CEO of Cure Brain Cancer Foundation in January 2021. Based in Australia, CBCF focuses on research, advocacy, and awareness both locally and globally under Lance's leadership.

In his initial months as CEO, Lance led the digital transformation of the organization, a crucial step especially in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdowns in Australia. By streamlining the team, refining their focus, and implementing a fully digital platform, CBCF experienced its most successful year to date in 2021 and 2022. Notably, the introduction of the first-ever digital walk for brain cancer raised $1.9 million.

Before joining the non-profit sector, Lance spent 25 years in the finance and banking industry, holding global roles that took him across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East. His diverse experience and expertise have positioned him well to lead CBCF and make a tangible impact on the organisation's growth and initiatives.

Lance's efforts have garnered recognition and accolades, including fulfilling a lifelong dream of ringing the opening bell at Nasdaq's MarketSite in Times Square. During this momentous occasion, he emphasized the significance of global collaboration and the establishment of a U.S. affiliate to expand the organization's reach andimpact.

Under Lance's guidance, CBCF has not only increased its funding but also embraced digital offerings to engage communities in Australia and worldwide. One notable accomplishment is the launch of the world's largest brain cancer-dedicated Clinical Accelerator program, supporting early-stage biotechnology companies in advancing innovative therapeutics.

A testament to CBCF's commitment to ground-breaking research, the foundation led critical funding for the introduction of the revolutionary GBM AGILE trial in Australia. This substantial investment of $8 million allows Australian patients to access previously unavailable experimental therapies, significantly improving treatment options.

Beyond his role at CBCF, Lance serves as Chairman of various organizations, including the Kendall Nicole Eich Foundation, Kim's Hope, Glioblastoma Research Organization (GBMRO), and Asian Fund for Cancer Research (AFCR). He is also a valued member of the Board of Directors for the National Foundation for Cancer Research, a Strategic Advisor for the Cancer Research Institute (CRI), and a Strategic Advisor for the AIM-HI Accelerator Fund.

To further raise awareness and support for rare cancers, Lance will embark on a ground-breaking challenge at the end of 2023—a first-ever brain cancer charity trek to the South Pole. Through this endeavour, Lance aims to unite charitable organisations worldwide, rallying for increased research, funding, and treatments for paediatric and childhood brain cancer.

Lance Kawaguchi's dedication and influential leadership continue to leave a lasting impact on the fight against cancer, inspiring hope, and progress in the pursuit of a cure.

Elina Ashimbayeva joins Purposely to share her founder experience starting Storyo. Storyo is loosely based on the ‘Humans of New York’ a famous photo blog shining a light on the people of New York, people of all genders, race and class. Storyo’s mission is to contribute to a culture shift that improves societal attitudes, behaviours and narratives. The inspiration came after she was scrolling online and was tired of the same “success” stories. Elina and her partner Steven wanted to share the journeys of their amazing friends. They wanted to celebrate people who are social workers, local artists, local politicians, sex workers and teachers. They also wanted to celebrate gender diversity because these narratives are so rarely shared in the media. They did their first interview for Storyo in June 2019 and have been hooked developing it ever since. Elina’s driven by the privilege she feels from moving to New Zealand from Kazakhstan and getting a great education. Her mission “to live a life that is useful to others,” guided her through all her different roles and study. Drawn to help people in the health sector Elina studied biomedical sciences and became a research assistant working in the immunology field. It was through this job, she realised she wanted to work more closely with people, and directly see the outcomes of her work. She utilised the short breaks between lab experiments and started listening to podcasts. She was fascinated by business gurus who showed her there are all sorts of ways of helping people outside of science.

End of Year Wrap - Episode 119 ­Taking a break from our normal interview format for the latest episode of Purposely and sharing a few insights from our guests. These include; the power of purpose and defining your personal mission The importance of non-linear careers as well as diverse experiences The great post pandemic re-set, purpose first! In 2022  we published 48 episodes with listeners tuning in from across the globe. The first interview of the year was with the CEO of the Wolfson Foundation Paul Ramsbottom OBE in the UK and the last with philanthropy doyenne Jenny Gill who is on the Boards of Vodafone NZ and MAS foundations as well as Prince’s Trust. Our episodes are published weekly (every Monday) along with a related blog (on www.purposelypodcast.com) and newsletter. Massive thank you for listening and sharing, please do not hesitate to reach out if you know someone who would be a good fit for Purposely and don’t forget to hit subscribe on whatever platform you are listening! All the best from Mark & Jon - Team Purposely

Sponsors:

Benevity https://bit.ly/3k4FTE2

The Giving Department https://bit.ly/3KdYWWU

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic.

This weeks episode features Susan Glasgow CEO at Variety New Zealand.

David Pitcher joins Purposely Podcast to share his founder story

David Pitcher utilised a brief volunteer experience in 2014 to reshape his future, from a corporate towards a life of purpose. This seminal moment led him to start the charity Wheely Tots a successful social enterprise helping hundreds of families and children in North London to live healthier lives.  It utilises the process of learning to ride and enjoying cycling to lead people to empowerment, greater confidence and more resilience.

David talks about his own passion for riding and how that helped him settle on cycling as programme choice. However, he points to his own families lived experience providing the ‘real’ inspiration to start a charity to help improve people’s lives. His family a blend of English (Yorkshire) and Polish roots had been through some hard times and as he saw that they lacked resilience and confidence but had a drive to work hard.  David explains that Wheely Tots works with a number immigrant families as well people who are struggling to get on life and challenged by the effects of poverty. focus on supporting families and young people in Haringey and North Hackney, London

Jamie Feilden joins Purposely Podcast to share his founder story about Jamie’s Farm. Jamie’s Farm was set up to provide a life changing rural experience for disadvantaged inner-city children and young people. The aim of the intense farming experience is to provide a catalyst for change, enabling disadvantaged young people to thrive academically, socially and emotionally long after their visit. They do this through a unique residential experience and rigorous follow-up programme, combining farming, family and therapy. Their vision is that vulnerable young people nationwide (across the United Kingdom) will be better equipped to thrive during secondary school years and beyond. You will hear how the initial spark for the charity came when Jamie Feilden was teaching in the first cohort of Teach First participants in a Croydon comprehensive. Shocked by the battleground the school had become stemming from poor behaviour and a lack of engagement, he initially brought lambs from his own farm in Wiltshire and set up animal pens in the school playground, charging his pupils with the job of looking after them; he observed that it was frequently the children who struggled most to focus and maintain positive relationships in school who benefited most from the responsibility and nurture needed to tend to these animals. At this point, he came up with the idea of taking pupils back to his home farm in Wiltshire. Using his own farming experience and the 30 years’ worth of experience that Tish, Jamie’s mother, had built up as a psychotherapist, they developed an approach based on Farming, Family and Therapy and piloted weeklong visits through the family home. From day one Jamie was determined that the farm would not be a ‘petting zoo’ but that there would be real jobs with a real purpose. When combined with the therapeutic methodology that Tish devised and the essence of a loving, family framework of support, a powerful intervention was born. From the very first week, they witnessed the profound impact that this combination could have on disengaged teenagers. Thirty-five pilot weeks were run through the family home, before the need for a purposely-converted farm became apparent. Farming, Family and Therapy, delivered via a five-day residential and follow-up programme, aims to addresses the root causes of exclusion by equipping vulnerable children to thrive during their secondary school years.

Welcome to "SHORT," a weekly episode designed for brevity. These concise episodes aim to distill important content and offer listeners a focused opportunity to delve into specific topics. Each week, we feature inspirational nonprofit leaders and social entrepreneurs, both familiar faces from previous episodes of Purposely and newcomers to the podcast.

Episodes typically range from five to 15 minutes in length, released every Thursday.

This week's SHORT episode features Jennifer Belmont, CEO of the Wakatipu Community Foundation and founding trustee for Youth Philanthropy New Zealand and Generation Give.

Jennifer shares insights into her successful journey in building the foundation, highlighting the incredible generosity within her community. Since its inception in 2017, the Wakatipu Community Foundation has experienced rapid growth, leveraging its work with young people in philanthropy and the power of Giving Circles. This growth in funding has enabled the foundation to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals locally, contributing to community growth and development.

In addition to discussing the foundation's achievements, Jennifer explores the broader landscape of philanthropy, noting the increasing acceptance of the term "kiwis" and the adoption of various global methods.

Jennifer's extensive involvement in nonprofits spans across different regions, including the establishment of various organizations such as a California local school foundation, tennis association, and a Utah community foundation.

Hannah Bellamy joins Purposely to share her leadership story with global aid organisation charity: water. 77 million people live without clean water. Nearly 1 in 10 people worldwide. The majority live in isolated rural areas and spend hours every day walking to collect water for their family. Not only does walking for water keep children out of school or take up time that parents could be using to earn money, but the water often carries diseases that can make everyone sick. Hannah and her team know that access to clean water is vital and means education, income and health - especially for women and kids Hannah outlines their vision to create a world where everyone has clean, safe drinking water. Incredibly they have funded clean water for 15 million people since inception in 2006 Globally revered, Charity: water has been recognised for their innovative, transparent, impactful approach by Fast Company, Forbes, and the New York Times among others. In 2019 Hannah brought the charity's model to the UK and Europe, she launched subscription giving, and forged partnerships with fashion, retail, and other brands to catalyse change. We touch on the charities origin story, with founder Scott Harrison transitioning from a decade long career as a New York City club promoter to running a charity helping millions. From 2004, Harrison committed two years of his life to the poor and marginalized through volunteer service in Liberia with Mercy Ships. He recognized that problems surrounding education, safety, and health may trace back to a lack of clean water and basic sanitation systems. Originally from Dorset, Hannah Bellamy has lived all over England and in Scotland, Norway, Alaska, Abu Dhabi, India, and Texas. Her degree in English and American Literature launched her career in publishing, but she transitioned into corporate responsibility and then the nonprofit world. Prior to charity: water Hannah was the founding CEO of United Way UK. In this episode we explore her purpose led work journey and also explore how she navigated the pandemic and adapted the way she worked. You will also hear how she believes in the power of mentoring, both to help motivate her and how she mentors women through FemMentored, and is an advisor for Good Brains for Good People.

Ah-Leen Rayner, the CEO of Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand, proudly hails from the western suburbs of Auckland, New Zealand's largest city - a proud 'Westie!' She stands as the sole member of her family to pursue higher education, successfully completing a Bachelor of Arts in Biological Anthropology and an M.B.A. Ah-Leen's illustrious corporate career spans three decades across diverse sectors. In early 2021, Ah-Leen made a transition to the charity sector, assuming the role of CEO at Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. Her appointment perfectly aligned with the trustees' vision of having a leader with robust business and commercial experience. Ah-Leen joins Purposely to share her organization's vision, mission, and her personal career journey, from her remarkable tenure at 3M to the unique challenges of leading a charity reliant on fundraising and donations. She emphasises the psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis, the significance of data in the fight against cancer, and the pressing need to reach underserved communities.

The foundation's vision is clear and concise: "zero deaths from breast cancer." However, achieving this vision remains a formidable challenge, despite the remarkable advancements in breast cancer research, treatments, and medicine. Encouragingly, there has been a 43% decrease in the breast cancer mortality rate over the past two decades, signifying tangible progress towards the foundation's vision. The charity's approach revolves around continuously pushing the boundaries of early detection, treatment, and support.

 

Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women in New Zealand and the third most common overall. Approximately one in nine New Zealand women will face breast cancer in their lifetime, with two men diagnosed each week. Most women diagnosed (70%-75%) and those affected by mortality (80%) are aged 50 years or older. While some women face a higher risk due to family history, most cases occur in women without relatives affected by the disease. Even among those with a family history, the majority will never develop breast cancer.

 

As Breast Cancer Foundation NZ strives for zero deaths from breast cancer, they play an active and vital role in providing education, support, and resources to all New Zealanders, including those in remote areas and ethnic groups with poorer outcomes. Their comprehensive offerings encompass breast awareness, screening, risk assessment, and overall health. The foundation also extends crucial support services to individuals and families affected by breast cancer. Collaborating with healthcare professionals, they provide resources, education, and training to ensure optimal patient care. Additionally, the foundation actively engages in research, funding impactful studies, and advocating for breast cancer treatment issues.

Welcoming Alesha Hope Chief Executive Officer of the Hawkes Bay Foundation to Purposely. Alesha's career spans corporate finance, fundraising, and philanthropy, all shaped by her early experiences growing up on a family orchard. She has seen firsthand the value of resilience, hard work, and community support—principles that continue to guide her work.

Originally from Hawkes Bay, Alesha saw both the challenges and rewards of the primary sector firsthand. Her parent’s resilience and dedication to providing opportunities for those who worked with him left a lasting impression. These early experiences shaped her desire to build a career that combined professional skills with a sense of purpose.

She first pursued a diploma in Speech and Drama before living in British Columbia and later working in Dublin, Ireland. Her career took a new direction when she moved to Sydney and joined Bank of America Merrill Lynch in corporate access. In this role, she developed the ability to align objectives and create meaningful connections, skills that later became valuable in fundraising.

Seeking greater fulfilment, Alesha transitioned to the Sydney Children's Hospital Foundation, where she gained experience in philanthropy and fundraising. Under the mentorship of Lindsay Rice, she developed a deeper appreciation for the sector and a strong commitment to professional fundraising.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Alesha returned to New Zealand and joined Cranford Hospice in Hawkes Bay. There, she played a key role in a capital campaign to build a new hospice facility, deepening her understanding of philanthropy in her home region.

Now leading the Hawkes Bay Foundation, Alesha is focused on building a sustainable fund to support the community’s diverse needs. The foundation’s mission is to foster healthy, thriving, and resilient communities by inspiring a culture of giving and sharing. She is committed to ensuring the foundation grows and adapts to meet the evolving needs of the region.

Her leadership style is built on collaboration, transparency, and a strong understanding of the local community. She believes that harnessing the generosity and loyalty of the people of Hawkes Bay is key to the foundation’s success. Under her guidance, the foundation aims to build a lasting legacy for future generations.

Outside of work, Alesha enjoys spending time with her family and taking part in the community life of Hawkes Bay.

The team at Purposely is delighted to present an episode of the UK-based Charity Impact Podcast featuring the remarkable serial social entrepreneur, Ruth Ibegbuna.

In this interview, host Alex Blake takes us on a journey through Ruth Ibegbuna's inspiring life, where she has founded multiple organisations including Reclaim Project, Roots Programme, Rekindle School, and Northern Soul. Ruth shares her transition from being a teacher to becoming a dedicated social entrepreneur, emphasising the vital role of listening to communities and addressing their unique needs. Through her experiences, she highlights the significance of balancing grassroots care with thought leadership, resulting in a positive and lasting impact in the realm of social change.

Fundraising and board meetings can indeed be daunting challenges for any social entrepreneur, but in this conversation, Alex and Ruth delve into invaluable insights on building strong relationships with funders and assembling the right individuals for your organisation's board. They touch upon key strategies that have brought remarkable successes to Ruth's ventures, which have in turn led to significant changes in the communities they serve. Ruth shares the transformative power of embracing difficult conversations when necessary and adopting a genuine and authentic approach in professional settings.

Moreover, the discussion takes a closer look at the importance of taking risks and fostering a culture of learning within the realm of social entrepreneurship. Ruth sheds light on Rekindle School, a groundbreaking initiative operating alongside the regular school curriculum, providing young people with a safe space to explore critical topics such as feminism, toxic masculinity, and race.

Throughout the conversation, Alex and Ruth also highlight the significance of finding useful resources for social entrepreneurs and the undeniable power of taking action by connecting with organisations that are making a positive impact.

If you're looking for inspiration to elevate your own organisation's impact, don't miss out on this enlightening conversation with Ruth Ibegbuna. Join Alex Blake and get ready to be inspired by Ruth's extraordinary journey and her unwavering dedication to making the world a better place.

Welcoming Denise Cosgrove, CEO of Selwyn Foundation, to Purposely where she shares her organisation's mission to help vulnerable older people as well as her career and life journey.

Denise's leadership journey began early, as she navigated a successful career while raising two daughters as a young single mother.

Theonly one of six siblings to attend university, Denise ventured to Otago University in New Zealand's South Island. There, she discovered a passion for acting and debating, which she credits for building the confidence that would later serve her well in business leadership roles. Denise maintains a strong commitment to health and wellness, exercising twice daily, abstaining from alcohol, and following a clean eating regimen.

Her career has spanned corporate, public, and charitable sectors in both New Zealand and Australia. In October 2022, Denise took the helm of The Selwyn Foundation, a well-established provider of retirement villages and aged care services in New Zealand. This appointment coincided with a significant shift in the Foundation's operational model, aimed at better supporting vulnerable elderly populations nationwide.

Central to this transformation was the sale of a substantial portion of the Foundation's retirement village capacity, including six villages and a commercial laundry. The proceeds from this sale, amounting to $200 million, formed an endowment fund that will enable the Foundation to dramatically increase its charitable giving.

Under Denise's leadership, the Foundation has set an ambitious goal of $100 million in charitable contributions over the next decade. This expanded support will reach beyond their retirement villages into the wider community, addressing critical issues affecting older people such as loneliness, social isolation, financial hardship, and lack of affordable housing. The organisation is committed to incorporating Tikanga Māori, Tikanga Pasifika, and Tikanga Pakeha principles to ensure culturally appropriate support.

While divesting some retirement village operations, the Foundation has retained ownership of its historic Selwyn Village in Auckland and Hansen Close in Birkenhead, continuing to provide innovative and affordable housing solutions for seniors.

Looking forward, the Selwyn Foundation aims to establish new partnerships targeting high-risk communities, including Māori and Pasifika populations. They also plan to leverage their expertise to influence policy decisions and advocate for issues crucial to older people's wellbeing.

Denise's impressive leadership career spans over three decades, with extensive CEO experience in large, complex operational businesses across New Zealand and Australia. Her focus has consistently been on achieving both social and commercial outcomes in the government and not-for-profit sectors.

Prior to joining Selwyn Foundation, Denise served as CEO of Presbyterian Support Northern (PSN) for five years, overseeing social, health, and disability services in New Zealand's upper North Island, including well-known brands such as Lifeline, Shine, Family Works, and Enliven.

Beyond her executive responsibilities, Denise serves on the boards of various NGOs and social enterprises. She is also a passionate advocate for New Zealand's contemporary art and design sector, with a particular interest in fostering new and emerging talent.

Beth Breeze joins Purposely Podcast to discuss the launch of her book ‘In Defence of Philanthropy’. She is passionate about giving and fundraising and has championed adding academic rigour to the discipline, shining a light on the positive elements of philanthropy. Beth worked as a fundraiser and charity manager for a decade before founding the Centre for Philanthropy at the University of Kent in 2008 where she now leads a team conducting research and teaching courses on philanthropy and fundraising, including an innovative MA Philanthropic Studies. Beth has written and edited five books, including ‘The New Fundraisers: who organises charitable giving in contemporary society?’ (2017), which won the AFP Skystone Research Partners book prize. Her latest book ‘In Defence of Philanthropy’ offers a robust response, based on both theory and extensive evidence, to the critiques against big giving. She has also written a wide range of research reports including ten editions of the annual ‘Coutts Million Pound Donors Report’. How did you get into fundraising and charity? ‘When I left university, all I knew is that I wanted to be useful. I didn't come from a particularly privileged background, so I didn't have a huge sense of what kind of jobs were out there. I only knew about social work and teaching and they're great jobs, but I didn't really think I had the personality or characteristics to do those sorts of roles. Instead, I looked at the charity sector because that seemed another obvious place where you can do good. My first job was as a fundraising officer in a youth homelessness charity called the ‘Cardinal Hume Centre’ in London and I became a fundraising officer rather than any other job because frankly, there's more opportunities in fundraising. I loved the way you could bring together a good organization that needs resources with generous people who have got resources with people who are good people who have got resources, you matchmake them together and the magic happens.’ How do you approach writing? ‘I have two strategies, the first is that I lied to myself a lot and I’d sit down at 10 o'clock at night and I would say to myself that I'm just going to do half an hour and of course what happens is you start writing and you get into it. The hardest bit is starting but once you start, you're glad you did it. Strategy number two is mint chocolates. I am an absolute sucker for dark mint chocolate, and I have boxes of them in my office and whenever my energy starts to flag I just open another box of chocolates then I can keep going for another hour.’ Beth has served as trustee for the Cardinal Hume Centre for young homeless people, as a commissioner on the Commission for the Donor Experience, as publications editor of Philanthropy UK, as a member of the President's advisory council at NCVO; as a member of the Advisory Group of the Charity Tax Commission; and is currently a member of the Women’s Philanthropy Institute Research Committee, Lilly School of Philanthropy, Indiana University, USA. Buy In Defence of Philanthropy here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Defence-Philanthropy-Beth-Breeze/dp/1788212614

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode that features one of our friends or past guests sharing their expertise on a specific topic.This week's episode features Shaun Robinson CEO at Mental Health Foundation NZ

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic.

This week's episode features Margi Mellsop CEO at Middlemore Foundation.

Toi Ora Live Art Trust, based in Auckland, has spent nearly30 years using art and creativity to support individuals facing mental health challenges. Originally founded by a group of peers from the Carrington Mental Health Institution, Toi Ora has grown into a dedicated space where people canexplore creative expression through painting, poetry, drama, and music. The organisation believes in focusing on strengths, encouraging artistic growth, and fostering social connections to promote well-being.

Leading this initiative is Susanne Ritzenhoff, whosepersonal and professional journey has shaped her vision for Toi Ora. Originally from Germany, Susanne grew up in a large family influenced by her father, an entrepreneur and philosophical thinker. The post-war environment in Germany,along with ongoing national reflection, played a role in shaping her perspective on resilience and adaptation.

After moving to New Zealand nearly 30 years ago, Susannebegan working in the arts with the Auckland Theatre Company before transitioning to the social sector. Her experience in fundraising and communications took her to organisations such as Youthline and PresbyterianSupport Northern. When the opportunity arose to lead Toi Ora, she saw it as a way to bring together her passion for the arts and her commitment to social change.

Susanne’s approach to leadership is informed by her ownexperiences with dyslexia, which she views as both a challenge and a source of strength. She values creative problem-solving and believes in the importance ofpersonalised care and community support in fostering mental wellness. Under her leadership, Toi Ora continues to provide a space where individuals can findbelonging and purpose through creative expression.

One participant’s experience highlights the organisation’simpact—struggling with chronic illness, she discovered that her art did not need to be perfect to be meaningful. This shift in perspective not only boosted her confidence but also transformed her outlook on life.

Looking to the future, Toi Ora hopes to expand its servicesacross Auckland and beyond, with aspirations to secure funding for year-round operations. Susanne remains committed to ensuring that creativity and communityremain at the heart of Toi Ora’s work, helping individuals connect with themselves and others through art.

For more information about Toi Ora Live Art Trust and itsprogrammes, visit www.toiora.org.nz

Welcoming Jenni Giblin, CEO of FundingHQ to Purposely where she shares her founder journey as well as her expertise on fundraising for charities and for-purpose organisations.

Jenni Giblin, CEO of Funding HQ, shares her journey as a founder and her expertise in fundraising for charities and purpose-driven organizations. Living on a dairy and sheep farm in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, Jenni splits her time between her business and advising clients across the country. Married to a farmer and a proud mother of five grown children, Jenni balances her life on the farm, weekends mainly, with her work for clients and leading a business.

Funding HQ is a platform that helps build fundraising capability and capacity in a cost-effective way. For Jenni, it’s the culmination of an already highly successful fundraising career, having secured over $215 million for a wide range of New Zealand-based projects. Jenni has extensive knowledge of both the public and private sectors and an intricate understanding of fundraising dynamics in each.

Based out of her family farm near Waipukurau in Hawke’s Bay, Funding HQ is a purpose-built online capability-building platform developed to educate, support, and provide structure to not-for-profits, local governments, and community organisations needing to secure funding.

The platform provides tools and efficiencies to ensure that the fundraising journey is productive and enjoyable.

Using a monthly subscription model, Funding HQ offers end-to-end fundraising support across a wide range of funding streams and for a diverse client base. It ensures that charities and organisations can build their own funding capability successfully, helping them become 'funder ready' and think strategically about the outcomes they deliver in their communities and their compelling case for investment. It's all about providing the 'why'—why they would make an ideal partnership for potential funders.

Jenni explains, “We coach and support our members to develop a diversified funding plan where they look for a range of funding partners across central and local government, corporates, businesses, philanthropists, trusts, and community fundraising initiatives.” She has a dedicated team at Funding HQ with successful fundraising experience. “They understand the challenges and frustrations that our members face but have the energy and expertise to provide quality support and advice.”

For Jenni, Funding HQ has been her destiny. Generating funding is in her blood. Her first taste came while helping Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule raise $7.5 million in external funding for the Hawke’s Bay Opera House in 2005, followed by a Napier city council contract to secure funding for a new stand at McLean Park. After securing more than $175 million in funding over 16 years for projects across the country and witnessing many organisations struggle to secure funding and unable to afford large consultancy assistance, it was time to put her experience to work and launch Funding HQ.

“I wanted to help build fundraising capability and capacity in a way that was accessible and cost-effective,” Jenni explains, “so that a wider range of organisations could learn how to access funding efficiently and remain financially viable.” She believes New Zealand’s funding landscape is uneven, with a large proportion of funds distributed to a small number of charities due to their internal resources to access funds and maintain partnerships.

Like any new start-up, limited finance availability means Jenni has been “living on the smell of an oily rag” and allocating all her resources into the business. It’s a platform-based business that required significant development investment, and yes, like many others, getting it off the ground has taken longer, and cost more than originally planned.

Rich Easton, CEO of the Neurological Foundation of New Zealand, joins Purposely to share his organisation's mission and his remarkable career journey, which took him from corporate project management to leadership roles within the New Zealand charity sector. Additionally, he reveals his passion for the open road and his affinity for owning motorbikes.

Rich's professional journey began in the early 80s in the telecommunications industry, where he worked for British Telecom. This experience profoundly influenced his trajectory, leading to a successful corporate career in telecommunications both in the UK and, more recently, in New Zealand.

Rich's decision to relocate to New Zealand was driven by matters of the heart. While residing in London, he fell in love with his kiwi flatmate's sister, who would later become his wife. This unexpected turn of events prompted Rich to move to Hamilton, a small City south of Auckland, while commuting to Auckland for work in the early 90s.

During this period, Rich began contemplating his career and the possibility of transitioning from the corporate world to the charity sector. Seeking guidance from someone well-versed in the charity sector, he was advised to explore volunteer governance roles. This approach allowed him to gain valuable exposure to the challenges faced by non-profit organisations, with the hope of gaining a competitive advantage for future executive positions. In 2015, Rich joined the Board of Volunteering Auckland, a charity he eventually chaired. This experience also paved the way for board roles with mentoring charity First Foundation and the Make A Wish Foundation, all of which served as excellent preparation for his current role as CEO of the Neurological Foundation.

Established in 1972, the Neurological Foundation of NZ raises funds to support local neuroscientists in conducting research on neurological disorders, along with raising public awareness of neurological conditions. While there are over 700 neurological conditions, Rich emphasises that researchers often focus on areas of research that can attract funding and have the greatest impact. He also highlights that research into specific conditions or disorders can be initiated by individuals affected by those conditions or their loved ones, who work together to raise awareness and funding. Some of the conditions encompass Alzheimer's, Multiple Sclerosis, Epilepsy, Parkinson's Disease, Stroke, Cerebral Palsy, Motor Neurone Disease, as well as mental and behavioural diseases such as bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety.

Although the foundation receives more funding requests than it can accommodate, its fifty-two-year history has endowed it with organisational knowledge to select suitable causes. Rich describes their funding ethos as being focused on making a tangible impact. To achieve this, they rely on the expertise of advisory panels composed of experienced neuroscientists with diverse skills and relevant expertise.

It is worth noting that, on average, 1 in every 3 people will experience some form of neurological condition. Rich explains that the organisation he leads is striving to forge a "pathway to hope," which is particularly pertinent when considering the aging populations both locally and globally. His foundation is dedicated to funding research aimed at preventing or curing these conditions whenever possible, as well as enhancing the quality of life for those affected by them. Rich further explains that recent advancements have led to successful treatment options for certain conditions where previously no treatment existed.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic.

This weeks episode features Josie Pagani CEO at ChildFund NZ.

       The big thing that drives Josie is the desire to 'get some things done' and make a positive difference today. This simple concept drives her approach politically and as a charity leader.

 

Josie talks about the best way to approach international development:

“The Pacific wants to power its own future, and we can be part of that.”

      “We're trying to keep that personal connection that (child) sponsorship has, but acknowledge the broader needs of communities.”

Welcoming Thomas Hinz, founder and CEO of Circability Trust, to Purposely Podcast where he shares their mission and his founder journey.

Thomas Hinz's journey to founding Circability Trust is fascinating, born in Rostock, East Germany, Thomas grew up in a town where the circus was a constant presence. A large touring circus and a smaller community circus tent were fixtures in the central park, sparking young Thomas's imagination and leaving a lasting impression.

Despite this early fascination, Thomas's journey to the world of social circus was far from direct. After school, he pursued an apprenticeship as a fitter and turner, working in factories. However, he always felt a pull towards more creative pursuits and a desire to help others. This led him to work with people with disabilities, where he found a profound connection and a calling to make a difference.

In the late 1980s, Thomas studied Rehabilitative Pedagogy in Berlin. Following the reunification of Germany, he saw an opportunity to address the severe lack of resources and support for people with disabilities in his hometown. Together with friends and colleagues, he founded a trust that offered a wide range of activities, from sports to music, art, and theatre. It was through this work that Thomas rediscovered circus as a powerful tool for social change.

In 1995, Thomas set up 'Circus Fantasia'™ in Rostock, complete with its own circus tent. This project combined his passion for circus arts with his commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. The circus became a place where people of all abilities could come together, learn new skills, and showcase their talents to the community.

Thomas's journey eventually led him to New Zealand, where he founded Circus Kumarani in Dargaville in 2003. Building on his experiences in Germany, he has spent the last two decades developing and promoting community circus throughout Aotearoa New Zealand. His efforts culminated in the establishment of Circability Trust, an organisation dedicated to using social circus as a tool for personal growth, social inclusion, and community building.

Circability Trust's mission is encapsulated in its vision: "All ages, all abilities, all cultures - better together." The organisation delivers classes, workshops, and community events that use circus arts to develop personal confidence, physical and emotional literacy, and overall wellbeing. Circability's programmes are designed to be inclusive, welcoming participants of all ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds.

One of the trust's key focus areas is developing inclusion programmes for people with disabilities, creating pathways for creative career employment options. Their work has been recognised through Arts Access Aotearoa's Creative Spaces Excellence and Partnership Awards, highlighting the impact and quality of their initiatives.

At the heart of Circability's approach is the emphasis on collaborative processes. They strive to create safe spaces where inclusive social circus arts practices can flourish in diverse communities. This methodology not only benefits the participants but also contributes to broader social change by challenging perceptions and breaking down barriers.

Thomas Hinz's journey from a curious child in East Germany to the founder of a transformative social circus organisation in New Zealand is a testament to the power of following one's passion and commitment to social good. Through Circability Trust, he continues to spread the magic of circus, proving that when people of all abilities come together, extraordinary things can happen.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic.

This weeks episode features Sarah Vibert CEO of National Council of Volunteer Organisations (NCVO), a charity that has been supporting thousands of voluntary and community sector charities and non-profits in England for over 100 years. Episode Highlights

Challenges and secrets to running a successful network or representative organisation:

- You are not going to achieve full consensus across your network so therefore getting agreement on all issues and topics should not be the focus

- Working hard to 'serve a broad church' of members as effectively as you can

- Don't be bland and make sure your organisation stands for something and for important issues

- 'Not a regulator, not a think tank but embedded in our members world'

- We are looking to the future at the same time helping charities to step up the existential challenges we / they face

- Importance of taking your members on a journey rather than being instructive Sarah joined NCVO in January 2020 as director of membership and engagement and was later appointed as Chief Executive in early 2022.

‘my brother and his friends' battle with HIV motivated me to want to help’ – Anne Aslett joins Purposely Podcast to share her story Anne Aslett is the Chief Executive Officer of the Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF). She has been with the Foundation for almost 20 years having joined from the commercial sector. Initially Anne joined as a volunteer and she is now their Global CEO and responsible for disbursing over $60 million in grants. Anne talks about her brothers fight with HIV and misdiagnosed brain tumour that would eventually take his young life. How his experience along with that of his close friends led her to want to help others going through the same thing. She initially joined HIV charity Terrence Higgins Trust (UK) as a volunteer moving on to help Elton John set up a supporter database for his own AIDS Foundation. You will hear how a bold suggestion to Elton and his manager, interrupting a conversation they were having in the office, led to a popup shop selling Elton’s used clothing and raised significant funds to help their early work. Anne shares the story of the Elton John AIDS Foundation and their mission to end discrimination, HIV infections and AIDS deaths. No matter who or where you are in the world. More specifically Anne talks about the incredible success they have had with a project in South London whereby they switched to automatic HIV testing rather than the traditional opt in test. Anne also talks about working what it is like to work Elton John as well Elton’s husband David Furnish who is the Chairman of the Foundation.  How she travelled with the charity’s celebrity Patron Victoria Beckham to a project affecting girls at risk of HIV and she was up close and personal when President Macron awarded Elton with the Legion d’Honneur and they jointly launched their most successful partnership.

Rui Peng joins Purposely to share his founder story with circular economy start- up Critical.  This New Zealand start up is focused on achieving environmental sustainability through waste reduction - repurposing plastic even if it has been contaminated. Rui shares his vision for the future of Critical and how he and his co-founder Adam Ransfield overcame some incredible challenges to stay the course. Incredibly they lost their brand new factory to a tornado in 2021. That followed a reshaping of their business model from pure social enterprise to a ‘for purpose’ business focused on sustainability.  We talk about Rui’s heritage, the son of Chinese immigrants - a first generation New Zealander. He talks about his parents in glowing terms describing them as hard working, determined people doing their best to make a new life for their family. Rui is passionate about his roots and mindful of his responsibility to protect Aotearoa's environment, reduce plastic waste, and help other nations around the world follow suit. Peng maintains ‘Our life's work is to care for the environment by developing technologies and circular solutions.’ Rui is a family man... 'Besides serving the 4 rangatira of our household including my wife and our three tamariki, I'm obsessed by the challenge to end plastic pollution - starting with the 252K tonnes NZ sends to landfill each year, and building pathways towards meaningful work for the 183K New Zealanders who are unemployed or underemployed.'

In a recent episode of the Purposely Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Jilly Tyler, CEO of Talking Matters New Zealand, where we posed the fundamental question: "Why does talking matter?" Jilly underscored the critical role of early childhood, especially within the first 1,000 days, in shaping a child's development. Drawing upon international research, she highlighted a striking reality: by the age of four, children encounter significant discrepancies in the number of words they hear, with some exposed to thirty million more words than their peers. This trend is mirrored in New Zealand, where studies reveal a comparable gap, with some children starting school equipped with vocabularies of 6,000 words, while others possess only 3,000.

Driven by these insights, Jilly and her dedicated teams at Talking Matters are committed to developing and implementing initiatives that cultivate linguistically rich environments for infants and toddlers across communities. Their efforts extend to engaging families and community groups, aiming to underscore the pivotal role of communication in child rearing.

Emphasising the remarkable pace of a baby's brain development — forging 700 new connections per second — Jilly highlights the critical window of the first three years, during which eighty percent of the brain's development occurs. She stresses that the quality and quantity of interaction and dialogue during this period profoundly influence a child's path toward educational success and broader life opportunities.

At Talking Matters, an innovative approach integrates education, health, and community organisations, all aligned in communicating the same fundamental message.

"Words are the nourishment for a child's brain, and one of the simplest yet most impactful actions parents can take is engaging in conversations with them," points out Tyler. "The more words a child is exposed to and engages with, the deeper their comprehension of concepts and language structure, thereby enhancing their capacity to learn."

Assuming the role of CEO amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in June 2020, Jilly Tyler succeeded the organisation's founder, Alison Sutton. Despite their retirement, both Jilly and Alison remain steadfast in their commitment to reshaping systems to improve outcomes for children, families, and communities. Anchored in evidence-based methodologies, their shared mission revolves around effecting positive change in the lives of young individuals.

Jilly's leadership is underpinned by a wealth of experience in early childhood development and education, encompassing teaching, professional development, and educational management. Her tenure in senior positions within central government, overseeing the implementation of early childhood policies in education and health, further enriches her expertise.

Having spearheaded data-driven social innovation projects in collaboration with entities like Ko Awatea, Two Tales, and Toha, Jilly embodies a visionary approach to effecting transformative change in the realm of child development and community welfare.

Welcoming Laurence Marshbaum OAM back to Purposely to share his incredible founder stories. Investment management is all about picking the right stocks to maximise returns, right?! Maybe considering an investors tolerance for risk and diversifying the investments across asset classes and markets.

That is also true for experienced Sydney based portfolio manager Laurence Marshbaum and Barrenjoey Capital Partners and their firm Community Capital. Well, it is only half true and alongside financial returns for investors they are fully focused on delivering social impact and providing vital funds for good causes.

Established in December 2022, Community Capital invests in private markets at a discounted price and then donates the generated funds to good causes. Causes and social purpose organisations selected by an experienced advisory board with individuals who are close to community issues and philanthropy. Laurence was inspired to act during the pandemic and was looking at ways he could use his knowledge, skills, and experience of the investment profession to do good and deliver funding to the community.

So far, they have raised $383M USD/ $550M AUD for the fund and on their way to delivering returns for investors as well as social impact through an unlisted credit fund.

Backers for the fund include Australian Retirement Trust, Laurence’s former employer, Minderoo Foundation, Legalsuper and MLC Insignia.

This is second for purpose organisation founded by Laurence and in June 2022 Laurence received a Medal of the Order of Australia from Lord Governor General David Hurley for his services to the charity sector through his social enterprise 10 X 10 Philanthropy. 10 X 10 operates in 14 cities in 7 countries and has raised over $5 million for early stage and grassroots not-for-profits. Established in 2013, Laurence and two other passionate social entrepreneurs shared a vision that everyone can make a difference by getting involved in philanthropy. Together, Laurence Marshbaum, Nina Skryzynski and Jenny Newmarch saw that professionals like themselves wanted to lead purpose driven lives and give back to their local communities, but lacked the time, knowledge, and framework to make a difference. On the flipside, grassroots for purpose organisations (not for profits) struggle to find financial support and volunteers to sustain their work. Laurence, Nina, and Jenny brought 10 friends to an organised event, with each friend inviting 10 of their friends, thus bringing together 100 people into the room with 3 social purpose organisations in attendance. That night they raised $11,000 for the non-profits, and the concept of 10×10 was born.

10×10 grew organically from Sydney to each Australian capital city as the news of this interesting model of philanthropy travelled. It wasn’t long before major cities in the UK, USA, Hong Kong, Canada and New Zealand were established and in mid-2021, Laurence, Nina and Jenny reunited to celebrate the milestone 100th 10×10.

Laurence featured on episode #23 of Purposely ‘millennials transforming philanthropy 10x10’

Welcome to the Purposely Podcast with Fiona Ellison, Director of the Unite Foundation. In this episode, Fiona shares insights into the foundation's impactful work and her personal journey in the third sector.

As the corporate foundation of Unite Students, one of the major providers of student accommodation in the UK, the Unite Foundation focuses on providing scholarships to individuals, with a specific emphasis on students who are estranged from their families or have been in the care system. Fiona highlights the transformative power of these scholarships, which offer not just financial support, but also a sense of community and belonging.

During the conversation, Fiona also shares her personal experience as an army wife and the unique challenges that come with frequent moves, underscoring the importance of finding a supportive community in each new location. She describes how she consciously chose to keep her job and commute from Salisbury to London three or four days a week, despite the four-hour round trip. This experience motivated her to join the board of the Army's Family Federation almost 19 years ago, with a focus on challenging the outdated narrative of army wives being stay-at-home moms.

The Unite Foundation addresses the needs of students who are often overlooked by other scholarship programs. Shockingly, only 13% of young people who have been in care pursue higher education, while the number is in the high 40s for those who have not been in the care system. Financial barriers, a lack of role models or support, and other obstacles can make higher education seem unattainable for many students who have experienced care. Even if they do manage to attend university, they may face additional challenges and may not have the necessary support structures in place to help them succeed.

The foundation's research, conducted over a decade, shows that having a safe and stable place to live greatly increases the chances of students not dropping out between their first and second years, which is when the highest dropout rates typically occur. Safe and secure housing enables students to focus on their studies and engage in university life, creating social connections through clubs and societies. By addressing this fundamental need for safe and secure housing, universities can achieve a bigger ambition of widening access to education and enabling young people who have experienced care to access the same opportunities as their peers.

This episode is sponsored by Benevity.

Gill Whelan joins Purposely to share her story as the inaugural Head of fashion label DECJUBA’s charitable foundation. Gill swapped corporate sales for a career focused on purpose, combining skills learnt from business and experience with the charity ‘St Kilda Mums’ in her new role, leading a corporate foundation. DECJUBA is a private company and was bought by former Cotton On founder Tania Austin in 2008. A women and girls apparel brand with 140 stores across Australia and New Zealand it has gone from strength to strength. Tania had envisaged setting up a foundation when the time was right. Formally established in 2021, the motivation to start a foundation was partly driven to provide some structure and strategy to their existing charitable giving. Gill Whelan joined as inaugural General Manager of the foundation in July 2022. DECJUBA had been a supporter of the charity St Kilda Mums, and this is where Tania got to know Gill. Gill impressed as someone with knowledge and passion for the charity sector as well as a long-standing love for fashion. Leaving St Kilda Mums was not an easy decision for Gill, she had been with them for over a decade and had grown close to their clients, staff, and supporters. Established in 2009, St Kilda Mums, based in Melbourne Australia, raise funds, and redistribute pre-loved items to children to ensure a safe start to life. Instead of being discarded, prams, cots, clothes, and essential items are donated to St Kilda Mums to then be rehomed to families in need. Gill’s gateway into the charity sector was through volunteering, she had spent a ‘fun’ five years living in New York with her family and had arrived back in Melbourne Australia at a ‘bit of a loose end’ but determined to re-engage with her community and make use of the spare time she had. She started volunteering at St Kilda Mums, performing several roles over the first few years but ended up falling in love with the organisation. Inspired by the founder and CEO Jessica Macpherson (a former guest of Purposely), ‘she was an incredibly inspiring and ambitious woman, she can draw people in and take them on a journey. it was a fantastic organisation to be involved with and ultimately provided me with opportunities in terms of my career.’ Gill outlines the DECJUBA Foundation’s ambitious goal to positively impact 25 million lives by 2025. ‘It's wonderful to have that big ambition, we're really committed to transforming lives and helping those in need and ultimately creating real sustainable change.’ DECJUBA, like other brands trading in the ‘fast fashion category’ is under pressure to lessen their impact on the environment and ensure sustainable practices in everything they do, from sourcing materials to the manufacturing process, and how they deal with waste. There is also pressure on brands to do the right thing by their employees and suppliers to ensure there is no exploitation. This pressure is coming from customers who want to buy sustainable fashion items and who will not buy from a brand if they exploit workers. Employees are also only willing to work for companies who are focused on positive world impact. Gill is very aware of this, and she talks about their approach to sustainability. ‘We don't shy away from the fact that we're a fast fashion brand and that has environmental impact. We're sort of fronting up to that as much as we can and trying to go even further than I guess is expected of us and the foundation goes hand in hand with that’ Gill is looking forward to growing and scaling the work of the foundation and ensuring it has a positive and lasting difference on people’s lives as well as the environment. ‘at the moment it is just me although I have loads of support from all parts of the business to help the foundation’ We are excited to see where Gill will take the foundation and how she will use her experience to help shape the direction of the foundation as well as the company. You can find Gill on Instagram @gill_at_work

Welcoming Ian MacQuillin, founder of Rogare - The Fundraising Think Tank, who on a recent trip from the UK joined Purposely host Mark Longbottom for a discussion on the evolving role of fundraising in charitable missions and the profession's future.

Ian MacQuillin's journey into fundraising began with a desire to probe deeper into the profession. His foundational belief, "Fundraising at its heart is about asking people to donate money to charity. If you don't ask, you don't get," is embedded in Rogare's mission to challenge and improve the fundraising sector.

Rogare, Latin for 'to ask', is an independent fundraising think tank established by Ian in 2014. Initially housed at the Centre for Sustainable Philanthropy at Plymouth University under the guidance of Adrian Sargeant and Jen Shang, Rogare serves as a bridge linking the academic and practitioner branches of the fundraising profession. It functions as an engine that transforms academic theory and research into actionable ideas for fundraisers.

Unlike traditional think tanks, Rogare operates through a volunteer network, emphasising the importance of fundraisers having a stake in creating their own knowledge. Ian explains, "It's about looking at the issues we face, asking questions about them, and trying to synthesize new approaches and solutions."

Before founding Rogare, Ian's diverse career spanned various sectors, including journalism covering topics from waste management to the music industry and police affairs. This eclectic background provided him with a unique perspective and skillset to approach the fundraising sector innovatively. Ian reflects, "I never stayed in one sector, which allowed me to bring a broad range of insights into each new role."

The fundraising sector faces numerous challenges, particularly its status as an emerging profession. Ian notes,

"The jury is out about whether fundraising is a profession or not. There's no defined pathway into fundraising, no body of knowledge required to learn, and self-regulation is quite weak." Rogare aims to address these gaps by fostering a culture of critical thinking and professional development.

A significant focus of Ian's work at Rogare involves exploring fundraising ethics. He emphasises the importance of balancing the duty to ask for donations with the rights of donors. Ian elaborates, "If you're doing fundraising ethics, you must incorporate the amount of money you could have raised or chosen not to raise. Otherwise, you might be doing data privacy ethics, but not fundraising ethics."

Ian envisions a future where the fundraising profession is recognized for its critical role and operates with the highest ethical standards. He continues to advocate for systematic changes and innovations to propel the industry forward, stating, "We need to be setting and leading the agenda, not just following it."

Through Rogare, Ian MacQuillin's contributions are shaping the future of the fundraising sector. His commitment to asking tough questions, fostering professional development, and championing ethical practices is paving the way for a new era in fundraising. As the sector evolves, Ian's vision and leadership will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the profession.

Welcoming Fiona Luth to Purposely, where she shares her founder story and charitable mission to transform literacy in Fiji. We discuss her motivations for starting and scaling the charity as well as plans for the future.

Fiona Luth founded Fiji Book Drive in 2012, following the loss of her second parent. While in Kadavu, Fiji, she experienced a moment of clarity, realising her desire to create as much positivity in the world as possible. Inspired by Peter and Margaret Long, who run the charity 'Children of Fiji', and conversations with her friend Lavenia Tamani about the lack of books in schools, Fiona became acutely aware of the challenges faced by Fijian students. With English being the compulsory language of instruction in Fiji, Fiona saw an opportunity to make a significant impact.

Upon returning to Australia, Fiona shared her vision of a book drive with her friend Laura Hahn. Laura embraced the idea, offering crucial support through her family's freight forwarding business for the first five years of the initiative.

Since its inception in 2012, Fiji Book Drive has made a remarkable impact, donating over 300,000 books to 194 schools and kindergartens across Fiji. The charity's mission is rooted in the belief that education empowers students and communities, with access to proper resources being key to a quality education. Recognising the abundance of educational materials in Australia, Fiji Book Drive aims to redirect these resources to under-resourced schools in Fiji.

The organisation's primary goal is to improve educational outcomes and life opportunities for Fijian students by increasing access to educational resources, with a focus on literacy. They strive to repurpose books, computers, and other educational materials, transferring them from those who no longer need them to those who do. Additionally, Fiji Book Drive is committed to operating sustainably, keeping resources out of landfills and prioritizing the distribution of durable goods.

Fiji Book Drive is a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission.

Welcoming Yann Roux, CEO of Disability Sport Auckland (DSA), to Purposely, where he shares his organisation's mission and his remarkable life journey, from France to New Zealand, and from a fitness coach to leading a charity and the disability sport network.

Yann is also the Manager of the Wheel Blacks, New Zealand's wheelchair rugby team, and Chair of the national disability sport network.

Hailing from northern (French Alps)France near the Swiss border, Yann dreamed of becoming an astronaut or a fighter pilot when he was young. In fact, he applied for pilot school. Growing up, Yann developed a passion for sports, firstly Karate, then Table Tennis then American Football American Football, which is a minority sport in his native France, and then Judo. He soon discovered CrossFit, a high-intensity fitness regime that also encourages lifestyle changes. It was a perfect fit for Yann, aligning with the technical elements he loved to apply himself to, and his clean-living habits. Yann is happy to suffer and work hard, which is evident in his impressive physique, fuelled by the two CrossFit sessions he does daily.
The charity he leads daily, Disability Sport Auckland, provides sport, recreation, and play opportunities for people living with disabilities in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. They offer access to a range of different sports, from traditional athletics and swimming to wheelchair rugby and basketball, as well as rock climbing, table tennis, and Boccia, a ball sport like pétanque and bowls.

What began as the Auckland Paraplegic and Physically Disabled Association in 1966 had a simple yet profound goal: to foster games, sports, and recreation for paraplegics and individuals with disabilities, while catering to their general welfare. That very year, the Association sponsored and organized a national team of wheelchair athletes to compete at the Commonwealth Paraplegic Games in Jamaica, showcasing their pioneering spirit.

Two years later, the Auckland Association joined forces with fellow organisations, sending a team to the Paraplegic Games in Israel. This collaborative effort paved the way for the formation of the New Zealand Association, now known as Paralympics New Zealand.

At a time when sports for individuals with physical disabilities, especially those in wheelchairs, were considered radical, high-profile athletes like Pompey Heremaia worked tirelessly to overcome stereotypes and serve as role models for younger athletes. A milestone moment in the organization's history was the construction of the recreation Gym at the Otara Spinal Unit in 1977. This not only provided a permanent home for our athletes and teams but also proved to be a catalyst for disabled sports, as patients in the unit were often recruited to join the activities taking place.

Yann is a purpose drive leader that is passionate about sport and the power participation in sports has to transform lives and help people reach their full potential.

Welcoming Stephanie Wheen CEO & founder of Gympanzees to Purposely Podcast where she shares her founder story as well as life journey. ‘How her relationship with her brother and the challenges faced by her physio clients led her to start a charity. Gympanzees provide play and exercise for disabled children. ‘Founder journey, overcoming the challenges to provide play, exercise and fun for disabled children’, Listen here: www.purposelypodcast.com and Apple Podcast, Spotify as well as all other platforms

Izzy Horrocks joins Mark Longbottom on the Purposely Podcast to discuss the Aotearoa Lifecourse Fund, a new charitable foundation she has co-founded with Jimmy McLaughlan. The fund aims to find, fund, and scale evidence-based programmes that help children and young people develop essential lifecourse skills.

 

Over the next five years, the foundation plans to invest $10million, raised from individuals, foundations, and businesses that share their belief in the importance of life skills for young people. While they are still in the early stages of fundraising, they have already secured a lead investor committed to making a difference.

 

The fund will act as a grant-maker, supporting charities and organisations working with children and young people. It follows a venture philanthropy model, combining funding with hands-on support for social enterprises and charities.

 

Izzy’s experience spans both delivering and funding programs that create social and economic impact. Her perspective was shaped early on by time in Ethiopia and Kenya, where she witnessed the power of local trust and community-led initiatives. This continues to influence her work in New Zealand, where strong partnerships with local charities and leaders are at the heart of the fund’s mission.

While Izzy and her team draw inspiration from global initiatives, she emphasises that the new foundation will be deeply rooted in New Zealand’s unique bicultural identity. Integrating both Pākehā and Te Ao Māori—the Māori worldview and its practices—will be central to their approach, shaping how they engage, support founders, and drive meaningful change.

 

With $5 million already secured and discussions ongoing with potential donors, the fund is progressing towards its target.

 Izzy’s message to potential supporters is simple: by investing in effective programmes, the Aotearoa Lifecourse Fund will give New Zealand’s next generation the opportunities they need to succeed.

Dr. Carol Homden CBE joins Purposely to share her leadership story. Carol is a renowned professional and volunteer charity leader, guiding some of the UK’s largest, and most respected nonprofits. Professionally she is the CEO of Coram and voluntarily she is the Chair of The National Autistic Society and Diabetes UK. Carol is a self confessed workaholic, driven by purpose to help children to live healthy, and happy lives. Her purpose is motivated by her upbringing as well as her experience as a parent. Carol's eldest child has severe autism and both Carol and her husband have first hand experience of the challenges this brings. 

Carol started her career setting up print media enterprises in East Anglia before moving to London as a freelance arts journalist and editor. She then became director of marketing and development at the University of Westminster, later moving to the British Museum in 1999 as its first director of marketing and public affairs. Carol became the commercial director of The Prince's Trust for four years, working on incredible projects such as Party in the Park and Fashion Rocks. She then became CEO of Coram in 2007,  revitalising the charity and aligning it to meet the needs of disadvantaged children, young people and their families. Established by Thomas Coram as The Foundling Hospital in 1739, Coram is the UK's oldest children's charity and has been supporting vulnerable children for 280 years. Leaving The Prince’s Trust for Coram, Carol wanted to be the boss, to be CEO, and knew the importance of helping children early in their lives, "It is crucial for a child's wellbeing and development that attachments are formed as soon as possible." Carol sheds light on the charitable work of Coram in supporting the rights, welfare and education of children throughout its 280 year history.  

Carol’s super power is her ability to combine commercial acumen and skills with social empathy and knowledge for the greater good. You will hear how she transformed the fortunes of Coram, The Prince’s Trust and The British Museum ensuring they could deliver on their charitable missions on a much larger scale. Carol was awarded a CBE in 2013 for her contribution to services for children and families.

Professor Ioannis Ioannou joins Purposely to share his thoughts on ESG and sustainability. Ioannis is respected and renowned strategy scholar whose research focuses on sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Purposely caught up with Ioannis while he was in on sabbatical in Miami and we covered a wide range of topics. Ioannis's focuses on how modern business contributes towards building a sustainable future and his academic work evolves around two main themes, including; understanding how the broader investment community perceives, evaluates and reacts to corporate engagement with, and integration of, environmental and social issues into strategy. Also, understanding the multiple and multilevel factors that may affect the corporate decision to adopt environmentally and socially responsible strategies. Ioannis regularly publishes in top-tier peer-reviewed academic journals regularly winning awards for his leading and thought provoking work. In 2016 he was awarded the ARCS Emerging Sustainability Scholar Award; an award that recognises a scholar in the area of corporate sustainability. He is also very active on social media and a frequent contributor to articles in the popular and managerial press including outlets such as the Financial Times, Bloomberg, The Guardian, BBC, Le Monde, and Forbes. In further recognition of his impactful work, Ioannis has been shortlisted for the Future Thinker Award of Thinkers50, the first-ever global ranking of management thinkers whose mission is to recognize ideas that have the power to change the world. Dr Ioannou’s has also been recognized by various rankings as one of the top social media influencers around the world for issues of responsible business and sustainability. Ioannis graduated magna cum laude from Yale University, majoring in Economics and Mathematics and holds a Ph.D. in Business Economics from Harvard University and the Harvard Business School. He joined London Business School in 2009 as an Assistant Professor and he is currently an Associate Professor with tenure. He has taught on the MBA and EMBA Core Strategy courses at LBS, and several other degree programs such as the Masters in Finance degree, the Emerging Leaders Program and other senior executive programs, including the Senior Executive Programme (SEP). He is a regular contributor to multiple LBS executive education programmes including modules on Responsible Business and Sustainability. Dr Ioannou has presented his research at many academic conferences, and universities around the world, and also, he is very often invited to deliver keynote speeches on issues of responsible management and sustainability at numerous high-profile events and conferences globally. He is a member of the UK Network Rail’s External Transparency Challenge Panel and the Advisory Board of Ethical Corporation. Dr Ioannou is also a member of the World Economic Forum Expert Network with expertise in the area of Sustainable Development.

Welcome to Purposely Short, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic. This weeks episode features the key elements of contemporary and successful philanthropy. Guest Stacey Thomas stresses the importance of; - Not doing harm - Putting the people you are wanting to serve at the heart of your decision making, intervention planning and service design’ - To the importance of lived experience or lived expertise, how having people with these is crucial for any charity. Stacey Thomas, a highly regarded philanthropy leader who is making a significant impact in the field of philanthropy. Stacey is the CEO of one of Australia’s oldest private foundations which is embracing its past and its history at the same time ensuring it puts it resources to work for a more equitable future for the people it helps. Stacey serves as a trustee for two philanthropy peak bodies who have recently pledge their commitment to the Voice, a campaign to change the constitution of Australia to ensure a better future for First Nation people. She is also part-time CEO of a start-up community foundation that she is growing and scaling in addition to her other responsibilities. Stacey's primary role is as CEO of The Wyatt Trust, a private charitable foundation established in1886 by Dr. William Wyatt. The Trust has a $100 million endowment and donates approximately $4 million each year to good causes across South Australia, with a focus on supporting South Australians in need in areas such as employment, education, housing, and financial literacy.

Welcoming Kiran Kaur, co-founder of GirlDreamer, to Purposely Podcast where she shares her founder journey.

Kiran is a visionary leader who is dedicated to supporting and uplifting millennial women of colour. She co-founded GirlDreamer, a platform that provides training, mentoring, and opportunities for this underrepresented group to achieve their personal and professional goals.

In this episode, recorded at the first Anthropy conference at the Eden Project in 2022, Kiran talks about the challenges and successes of her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of creating inclusive and diverse spaces, and the impact of her work on the lives of thousands of women.

GirlDreamer has been recognized as one of the “top 50 most creative, innovative and disruptive companies in England” by Creative England, and Kiran also serves as the chair of the board at Home Girls Unite, an organization that supports eldest daughters from immigrant families.

Kiran is a passionate advocate for social change and a role model for the next generation of leaders. Listen to her inspiring story and learn how you can join her movement.

Anthropy is a conference that brings together changemakers from different sectors and backgrounds to explore how we can create a more sustainable, inclusive, and regenerative world. Anthropy aims to inspire, connect, and empower people who are passionate about making a positive difference.

The founder of Anthropy, John O’Brien, is a past guest of Purposely.

The next conference will take place in March 2025 at the Eden Project, described by the founders as a living laboratory for environmental and social innovation. If you are interested in attending or learning more, please visit www.anthropy.org for details.

About Anthropy

Welcoming Lachlan Keating, the CEO of Deaf Aotearoa, to Purposely where he shares his organisation's mission to represent and serve deaf people.

Lachlan joined the organisation nearly two decades ago and has been instrumental in driving the mission forward. Born in Tasmania, Australia, Lachlan's career journey is as inspiring as it is diverse.

Deaf Aotearoa’s mission is centred on ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for deaf people and the organisation strives to eliminate communication barriers and create equal opportunities for deaf individuals across the country.

One of the major challenges faced by the deaf community is accessibility in education and employment. Deaf Aotearoa has taken significant steps to address these issues. Their First Signs service is a critical initiative, providing deaf babies and their families with early access to New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL). This early intervention lays a solid foundation for better educational outcomes and fosters stronger communication within families.

Deaf Aotearoa also emphasises the importance of building a pipeline of deaf leaders. By nurturing leadership within the community, the organisation ensures that deaf individuals are well-represented at all levels of society. Various programmes and workshops are conducted to empower members of the deaf community, enabling them to take on leadership roles and advocate for their rights.

While the organisation has up until now relied on government contracts and sign language interpreting services, it is also expanding its philanthropic and fundraising efforts. These efforts support initiatives that are not covered by government funding, ensuring the sustainability and growth of their programmes.

Lachlan’s work with deaf communities in Brisbane provided him with invaluable experience and insights. To further his expertise, Lachlan studied nonprofit management and leadership at Harvard Business School, equipping him with the skills needed to lead Deaf Aotearoa effectively.

In Brisbane, Lachlan began his remarkable journey in the nonprofit sector by working as a lead gardener at Wesley Mission. He led a team of adults with learning disabilities, Down syndrome, and autism, taking them out to do gardening for churches and properties under the Uniting Church in Queensland. This experience not only honed his leadership skills but also deepened his commitment to social service. He later moved into roles in supported employment, helping people with disabilities, mental illness, and refugees from Sierra Leone, Sudan, and Somalia find work.

After moving to New Zealand, Lachlan joined what was then known as the Deaf Association, continuing his work of getting deaf people into jobs. His dedication and leadership saw him rise through the ranks, becoming the South Island regional manager, then General Manager of Community Development, and eventually the CEO in June 2012.

Under Lachlan’s leadership, Deaf Aotearoa continues to advocate for better education and employment opportunities for deaf individuals. His leadership philosophy revolves around self-awareness, vulnerability, and the courage to focus on what the organisation does best. He places a strong emphasis on good character and hard work, both in recruitment and in daily operations.

Lachlan remains optimistic about the future of Deaf Aotearoa remains dedicated to its core purpose of breaking down barriers for the deaf community.

For full transcript of this episode visit www.purposelypodcast.com

Welcome to Purposely Podcast with John McCarthy, John shares his career journey and his approach to giving as the Manager of the Tindall Foundation. The Foundation was set up by Margaret and Stephen Tindall, the founders of the Warehouse Retail Group, and has donated over $200 million to good causes in New Zealand since its inception in 2004.

During the podcast, John also shares details from his past, including the tragic loss of his mother, father and sister. Despite these overwhelming challenges, John is quick to refute any idea that we should feel sorry for him, saying that he has been fortunate in many ways. He believes that his past experiences have helped him to be independent and resilient and have given him a deep desire to make a difference.

John's career has focused on social services and philanthropy, and he believes that his past experiences have helped him to empathize with other people's life experiences and challenges. As the Manager of the Tindall Foundation, John is responsible for deploying the funds earned on an annual basis from the endowment that was set up using Margaret's shares. The Foundation focuses on strengthening families and communities, as well as the environment, and uses a wide range of approaches to deploy its funds including direct donations, donations through partners and impact investing and lending.

‘The approach that we take is to try and be as collaborative and as responsive as possible. We recognise that we don't have all the answers and we're always learning from the communities and the organisations that we work with.’

John stresses how open and flexible they try to be as a funder, seeing themselves as a partner rather than just a funder. They are also focused on measuring the impact of their work, both in terms of the outputs that they achieve and the longer-term outcomes that they’re seeking to support.

‘Ultimately, our goal is to contribute to a stronger and more equitable New Zealand, and we're committed to working towards that goal in a way that is responsible, transparent, and accountable.’

John began his career as a social worker focused on improving health outcomes, primarily in Auckland but also spending time in London. Throughout his career, John has tackled challenging and sensitive issues, such as drug and alcohol addiction, as well as sexual abuse, with a particular focus on working with perpetrators. Despite the difficult nature of his work, John remains dedicated to making a positive impact in these areas, and his expertise and experience have proven invaluable in improving the lives of those affected by these issues.

Overall, John's story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep desire to make a positive impact on the world. His approach to giving is grounded in his own experiences, and he believes that everyone has the power to make a difference, no matter their past or present circumstances.

Episode sponsors:

Sponsors:

Benevity https://bit.ly/3k4FTE2

The Giving Department https://bit.ly/3KdYWWU

Jake Stika founder of Canadia nonprofit Next Gen Men joined Purposely Podcast to share his story. ‘I had a really shitty mental health experience in my early 20s and came to understand that it was a masculine script that was harming me and I have been on a unlearning and learning journey, sharing that with people.’ Jake a former athlete and self-confessed jock, struggled with his own mental health. This experience led to unsafe behaviour and a negative view of himself particularly in relation to his own masculinity. Eventually a period of self-reflection as well as therapy helped Jake to understand himself better and offered him more positive thoughts about what it means to be a man. This journey led him to a life of purpose and co founding the charity Next Gen Men focused on gender-based issues related to the social and emotional development of young men. It focuses on the health and well-being of men where boys and men ‘experience less pain and cause less harm’. ‘I've had an eclectic career. You know, I played Semi Pro basketball, until I was the ripe old age of 24. I then retired and came back to Canada and got a job in oil and gas as a business analyst, which, which was just awful. That is when I made the leap. Initially working as part of a start-up ecosystem leading business development and sales for several start-ups. That was part of the catalyst of Next Gen Men.' 'I had been fundraising for the men’s health charity Movember for five years, and they had a call for proposals out for new ideas to change the face of men's health in Canada. I fancied myself as an entrepreneur and here was an idea and a funding opportunity, so we pitched!  Together with a buddy of mine from University, who had lost his brother to suicide and who was working with at risk youth we pitched this idea and we got the funding, $150,000, to three knuckleheads who've never done anything like this before’ Their youth programs teach boys to question gender stereotypes and assumptions. Their work helps build emotional intelligence, giving youth the skills and resilience they need for healthy relationships and positive mental health. How to practice consent, how to be a good friend, how to live with confidence and empathy, their programs engage youth in the big conversations they need to have. Jake was named one of Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40, as well as having earned recognition from Ashoka, the British Council, and the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion. He has spoken at the United Nations as part of the Canadian Delegation, and participated in the UN Women Safe Cities Initiative Global Forum. He is also a proud advisor to the Calgary Immigrant Women's Association, Canadian Women & Sport, as well as the Calgary Women's Emergency Shelter.

Welcome to Purposely Short, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic. This weeks episode features Kate Brown CEO of Westminster Foundation

Welcoming Malindi Maclean, CEO of Outward Bound New Zealand, where she shares her charity's mission to use the challenge of the outdoors to help young people thrive and her journey from pro cyclist to non-profit leader.

The core mission of Outward Bound New Zealand is to empower young people by challenging them to step out of their comfort zones and develop essential life skills. The organization serves around 2,000 students each year, with half of them receiving scholarships. These programs are device-free, promoting mental health and fostering a deeper connection with nature. The organization is dedicated to inclusivity, ensuring that every young person, regardless of their background, can benefit from their transformative experiences. Through rigorous outdoor activities such as sailing, tramping, and kayaking, participants learn the value of teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. These experiences build resilience, bolster confidence, and instill a sense of compassion and community.

Established in 1962 in Anakiwa, Outward Bound New Zealand operates with the blessing of the local iwi, Te Ati Awa, upholding a tradition of respect and collaboration with indigenous communities. Founded by Kurt Hahn, Outward Bound emphasizes resilience, confidence, and compassion through self-discovery journeys in nature. Despite challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination mandates, Outward Bound remains committed to expanding its reach and impact. Future plans include exploring the possibility of a second Outward Bound school in New Zealand, investing in digital systems and infrastructure to improve productivity and efficiency, and engaging with the global Outward Bound network to share knowledge, resources, and best practices. All these efforts are undertaken with a keen awareness of the environmental impact of travel and a continual weighing of its benefits against the necessity of collaboration.

Malindi Maclean's path to becoming the CEO of Outward Bound New Zealand is as inspiring as the work she champions. Malindi began her career as a pro cyclist, where she honed her skills in discipline, perseverance, and leadership. These qualities helped her transition into her role in the non-profit sector, where she has become an advocate for youth development. Under her leadership, Outward Bound has not only maintained its high standards but has also adapted to new challenges and opportunities. Malindi's commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for young people is evident in every aspect of her work. Her vision is to see one in every room of school leavers having experienced the transformative power of Outward Bound, equipped with the skills and confidence to navigate life's challenges.

Around 150 kids under 13 get diagnosed with cancer each year in New Zealand. The good news is that more kids are surviving, with an 85% success rate after five years.

Monica's charity, Child Cancer Foundation, steps in where the medical journey gets tough, acknowledging the challenges during treatment and the heartbreak of families who lose a child to cancer.

Their mission is clear – supporting these families through the full journey and to improve the cancer care that future families experience.

Monica, is driven to make a positive impact, she is happy to lead the way and she knows firsthand what these families are going through.

The Foundation is all about pushing for better outcomes, ensuring fewer parents have to face the devastating loss of a child. They work closely with New Zealand's top-notch paediatric oncology professionals who tailor treatment plans for the unique cancers that affect kids.

Monica points to the success had by New Zealand's paediatric oncologists and clinical teams who are involved in international clinical trials, bringing in treatments all without breaking the bank.

Child Cancer Foundation works across the two treatment centres and all the shared care and regional centres nationwide alongside NGOs and puts Tamariki and families at the heart of all their activity. Their team of Family Support Coordinators meet families where they are at, ensuring tailored support is delivered from hospital to home.

Monica and the Foundation understand that no two families face this journey the same way. They're not just focusing on the sick child; they're there for the whole family. Whether it's emotional, practical, or financial support, they've got it covered. The goal is simple: let families focus on what truly matters – loving and caring for their child.

Child Cancer Foundation has a vision – to step up the game in child cancer care while being a support for every child and family on their cancer journey. Their to-do list includes supporting kids with cancer, helping families who've lost a child, boosting the skills of healthcare pros in pediatric oncology, delving into research, and advocating for better support for kids with cancer.

Monica Briggs joins Purposely to talk about her current role and charity leadership more generally. She also talks about her own cancer diagnosis and how this has helped her with her current role. Monica has been a force for good in the for-purpose sector for almost three decades in both New Zealand and the UK. In her spare time, she sits on the board at the Grief Centre.

Jenny Gill joins Purposely to share her career journey leading New Zealand’s largest and most respected charitable foundations as CEO, advisor and Board member.

Jenny is one of the pioneers of philanthropy in New Zealand, from her first role in the eighties to now she has led the way for wealthy and generous individuals, foundations and companies, helping them to give more effectively and ensure they make a positive and lasting difference.

In 1985 Jenny took on her first role in philanthropy as Executive Director of a private foundation to give away all of its funds over a set period of time. A fairly rare phenomenon in the eighties this type of philanthropy is described as ‘spend down’. The theory being that you donate all of the money you have to a good cause/s as quickly as possible to ensure you make a transformative difference as fast as possible. The organisation or the Foundation is merely a means to an end to deliver effective philanthropy during a specific time period. The Roy McKenzie Foundation with Jenny at the helm donated a total of $7 million over 9 years. “I went to meet him in his office in Wellington and I came out with a job offer, with no job description, no discussion about salary (however) an agreement that I would start work the next day. Well, I went to his office the next day and he handed me a blank pad of paper, a pencil, a copy of the trust deed, a check for a million dollars and said okay, let's go” Jenny describes the role she had as her becoming a ‘philanthrocrat’, a profession helping the generous and wealthy to give effectively and efficiently, in fact she was one of the very first professionals working in this way in New Zealand. Jenny continued to play an instrumental role in philanthropy and in 1990 Jenny and Roy used their experience to start the Association of Grant Givers (now Philanthropy New Zealand). Based on similar organisations overseas it helps to encourage others to give and provides a forum for individuals and organisations to share their experiences with others. Sharing know how and experience at the same time helping people to collaborate on projects to have greater impact. Roy McKenzie was the only surviving son of John McKenzie, two members of one of New Zealand’s richest and most generous families. They owned a chain of general stores in Australia and New Zealand before they were taken over by LD Nathan in 1980. The funds they have donated to good causes over the years come from the wealth generated by those stores as well as through investment firm Rangatira Ltd which was founded in 1937. In 2004 Jenny moved further north to Auckland to take on the role of CEO of Foundation North, known then as the ASB Charitable Foundation it is the largest of the 12 community foundations in New Zealand with almost $3 billion in an endowment with the interest benefitting people and causes in Auckland and across Northland. Jenny and her team were responsible for granting over $50 million to good causes on an annual basis. Jenny enjoyed 16 successful years in charge of Foundation North, deciding to step down in 2019 to spend more time with her family. This proceeded the arrival of the global pandemic and a crucial period for all funders as they responded to the crisis. This was certainly the case for Foundation North and the other community trusts as they responded to COVID-19 and the significant impact the pandemic was having on people living in poverty and on the margins. Jenny talks about being less optimistic these days compared the 'heady days of the 70's' particularly around the effects of climate change and what this will mean for her five grand children. Pointing out that it is much harder for individuals to influence meaningful change compared to past generations. As Jenny's attention shifts to the future of philanthropy and charitable giving she makes it clear that she would like to see more philanthropic money going into addressing climate change and environmental

Joseph Russo states his dyslexia is his super power. Tune in and hear how growing up with a disability propelled him to a life of purpose as founder and CEO of UK Charity The Enthusiasm Trust. A poignant interview that provides fantastic insights on what effective and impactful youth work does and should look like. Joseph also lays bare some of his toughest moments as a leader in the charitable sector with the relentless search for funding, sacrificing material wealth and the worry that he was falling into the trap of ‘founder syndrome’. Recruited by the UK Home Office as a special adviser on youth, criminal justice and gangs Joseph is a great listen.

In the realm of social enterprises, there are visionary leaders driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact on society based on their own life experiences. Sasha Lockley, the founder and CEO of Money Sweetspot, is one such remarkable individual. Based in New Zealand, Money Sweetspot is a trailblazing social enterprise that aims to empower individuals and communities to achieve financial wellness.

Sasha's journey as a social entrepreneur was inspired by her early years and her own family story, which connected her to the struggles faced by her customers at Money Sweetspot.

Her father, who owned a bus company in Stafford, England, faced challenging times when Sasha's grandfather unexpectedly passed away. To help run the family dairy farm, Sasha's father had to put his own business on hold, leading to significant financial struggles that eventually resulted in bankruptcy. Sasha emphasises that such incidents can happen to anyone, and her father was not at fault; rather, he was a good person who encountered unfortunate circumstances.

Originally from the UK, Sasha immigrated to New Zealand, initially intending for it to be a temporary move. However, while working in finance roles there, she witnessed first-hand the financial challenges that individuals and families face. This experience ignited her determination to create a solution that would bridge the gap and empower people to achieve financial freedom.

The idea for Money Sweetspot took shape when Sasha realised that traditional financial services often failed to meet the needs of underserved and vulnerable populations. Recognising the potential of technology and innovative approaches, she set out to create a platform that would revolutionise the way people managed their money and coped with debt.

At the core of Money Sweetspot's mission lies the belief that financial wellness should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or income level. The platform offers personalized financial guidance, budgeting tools, and resources, empowering users to set achievable financial goals and work towards them with confidence.

Sasha's journey as a social entrepreneur was not without challenges. Building a social enterprise from scratch requires resilience and determination. However, Sasha's unwavering commitment to her vision and the positive impact Money Sweetspot could have on people's lives kept her motivated.

Today, Money Sweetspot is making a significant impact in New Zealand and beyond. Within months of its official launch, this innovative debt consolidation social enterprise has already provided nearly $3 million in loans to New Zealanders grappling with unmanageable debt. The platform has helped countless individuals gain control over their finances, reduce debt, and build a more secure financial future.

Beyond providing financial tools and resources, Money Sweetspot actively collaborates with community organisations and educational institutions to promote financial literacy. Through workshops, seminars, and partnerships, the social enterprise is on a mission to create a financially empowered society that can navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.

As Money Sweetspot continues to grow and touch the lives of more people, Sasha's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring social entrepreneurs to follow their vision and turn their dreams into reality. Through her remarkable journey, Sasha Lockley exemplifies the profound impact one individual can make in shaping a better tomorrow for all.

 

David Rhode, recently joined me, Mark Longbottom, on the Purposely Podcast from New York. During our conversation, David shared insights from his journey as a founder and nonprofit consultant, highlighting lessons from his upcoming book, Passion Isn’t Enough: A Practical Guide for Nonprofit Leaders.

Passion Isn’t Enough reflects David’s belief, rooted in personal experience, that passion alone is insufficient to start, scale, and sustain a successful charity. The book offers actionable guidance and lessons drawn from David’s journey, equipping nonprofit leaders with the tools to overcome challenges and achieve meaningful impact.

Reflecting on the project, David described it as one of his most meaningful endeavours, emphasising its focus on practical strategies and solutions.

A Founder’s Journey

David’s deep understanding of the nonprofit sector stems from his personal experience founding and leading a charity. In 2005, he established Pitch In For Baseball and Softball, an organisation dedicated to providing sports equipment to underserved communities. This initiative was inspired by David’s love for sports and his desire to create opportunities for children in need. Over the years, the organisation has impacted nearly one million young people, fostering their physical, emotional, and social development.

David’s journey was not without obstacles. In the early days, he relied heavily on the support of friends, family, and professional networks who believed in his vision. The turning point came during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, when Pitch In For Baseball and Softball adapted to provide disaster relief, delivering equipment to affected communities. This experience underscored a critical lesson: while passion ignites a mission, adaptability and strategy sustain it.

David’s success as a founder reinforced his belief that passion must be paired with strategic planning, professional management, and disciplined execution. He credits much of his achievements to the unwavering support of his family, who played integral roles in the organisation’s journey. From assisting with board meetings to participating in international deliveries, their collective commitment was a cornerstone of the nonprofit’s success.

After nearly 15 years leading Pitch In For Baseball and Softball, David transitioned to a consultancy role, mentoring nonprofit leaders and helping organisations navigate their challenges. Through this work, he has provided tailored guidance to countless executive directors, empowering them to lead with clarity and purpose.

The idea for Passion Isn’t Enough stemmed from David’s desire to extend his impact beyond one-on-one coaching. Drawing from his own experiences and incorporating insights from 20 other nonprofit leaders, the book serves as a comprehensive guide to effective nonprofit management. David collaborated with a research assistant and sought feedback from young leaders to ensure the book’s relevance and practicality.

Inspiring Sustainable Impact

David’s hope is that Passion Isn’t Enough will empower nonprofit professionals to overcome challenges, maintain focus on their missions, and drive meaningful change. He emphasises the importance of discipline, strategic planning, and avoiding mission creep to ensure long-term success.

As David continues to inspire and mentor nonprofit leaders, his new book stands as a testament to his belief that combining passion with strategy is the key to creating sustainable impact. By sharing his founder’s story and the lessons he has learned, David aims to inspire a new generation of leaders to pursue their missions with purpose and precision.

For more insights and to hear David’s full interview, visit www.purposelypodcast.com.

 

Dan Corry, CEO of London based New Philanthropy Capital (NPC) joined Purposely Podcast to share his leadership story.  NPC is a successful and respected charity think tank, launched 20 years ago by partners of Goldman Sachs. They wanted to shake up and disrupt the sector by focusing on impact measurement and accountability grading. Dan became Chief Executive of NPC in 2011 following a variety of posts in public policy and economics, ‘I feel like everything I did prior was preparing me to be CEO of NPC’. Dan was Head of the Number 10 Policy Unit and Senior Adviser to the Prime Minister Gordon Brown (2007-2010). The 2008 global financial crisis brought about a tumultuous time for the economy, Dan played a crucial financial advisory role in helping the government survive the crisis. During the episode you will hear how ‘late nights and difficult decisions’ played a role in turning things around. Dan has been Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers in the Treasury and has worked as a special adviser to the Secretary of State in the Education Department. He was a Director in the Economics segment of FTI Consulting and ran the New Local Government Network, voted Think Tank of the Year in 2004. Dan is a member of the Early Action Taskforce, which helps make the case for a shift in priorities away from coping with the consequences of social problems towards work that prevents them arising. He is a member of the Advisory Boards for Big Society Capital, Impetus–PEF, and the Centre for Public Scrutiny, as well as a member of the Charity Tax Commission. He is a trustee of St Mungo’s, 19 Princelet Street and of the What Works Centre for Wellbeing, and a former member of the Research Committee of the ESRC and of the Greater Manchester Economic Advisory Panel.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic.

This weeks episode features Ah-Leen Rayner CEO of Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. .

Tim Jones joins Purposely Podcast. Episode 1 of 2 with Tim Jones, founder of The Grow Good Guy. In this episode we explore ‘business for good’ and the exciting and growing B Corp Movement. We also explore Tim’s career and his dissatisfaction with profit only or at all costs paradigms. Tim was New Zealand’s first qualified B Corp consultant and he has helped more than 50 companies from around the world successfully navigate the B Corp Impact Assessment, and is working with new businesses every month to take them through the process. So what is a B Corp? Put simply it is a company that prioritises purpose, positive social and environmental impact along with making a profit. Companies gain certification B Corp (short for Certified B Corporation) is the term used for any for-profit entity that is certified by the nonprofit B Lab as voluntarily meeting higher standards of transparency, accountability, and performance. Tim is full of energy and is a great communicator as you will hear. As well as guiding clients to gain their B Corp certification, he delivers inspirational, motivational, memorable and impactful consulting, training and coaching to individuals and organisations. He helps them achieve meaningful goals in life and work, by tapping into the potential of their purpose fuelled performance. Beware… the episode ends on an unanswered question and you will need to listen to episode 2/2 out on the 4 May 2022.

David Crosweller joins Purposely Podcast to share his founder story

Sanitation First provide ecosan toilets to people in India and Africa. Incredibly they have helped to transform the lives of 350,000 people since their launch in 1997.  Their slogan is to ‘tackle poverty one toilet at a time’.

David had been running a marketing agency in the UK which collapsed in the 1990 economic crash.  This led him to re-focus his career deciding to help others and live a life of purpose. David started Sanitation First with his friend Andy Barr after a life changing visit to Africa where he saw the devastating effects of disease-ridden water and lack of proper sanitation. David talks about crying for an hour in a hotel room following a visit to a hospital where a third of patients had died from diseases directly related to dirty water. They started to construct eco-toilets in a country that had no toilets for millions of people.

In 2005 they developed the first composting toilet which was built in an Indian school, a unit that is still in use to this day. This school, like so many others, now has long-term sustainable sanitation and the impact, especially for girls, is enormous. There has been a 17.5% increase in the number of girls enrolling with almost 100% finishing senior school and approximately half going on to further education. A toilet has a big impact.

Alison Goodman, Deputy CEO of Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice in the UK, recently spoke with Mark Longbottom on the Purposely Podcast about her career and the work of the charity.

Alison grew up in a community-focused family. Her father, a GP, helped set up a children’s hospice in Manchester, and her mother was awarded an MBE for her services to the community. These experiences influenced Alison’s decision to become a teacher. She worked as a primary school teacher and a special educational needs coordinator before moving into the charity sector.

Her first role in fundraising was at the Terrence Higgins Trust, where she started as a temporary community fundraiser. She stayed for 11 years, taking on different roles and eventually becoming head of major giving and celebrity manager. During this time, she worked to challenge the stigma around HIV and AIDS, collaborating with well-known supporters such as Stephen Fry.

In 2006, Alison joined Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice as fundraising director, responsible for securing funds to support its services. One of the charity’s major projects was the development of a hospice building, which opened in 2019. Named the Arc, it provides care and support for children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions and their families.

Noah’s Ark offers practical, emotional, and clinical support, working with children, their siblings, and carers. The Arc complements the hospice-at-home service, giving families the option to receive care in different settings.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the charity adapted quickly to provide end-of-life care for children leaving hospital. It also launched “Noah’s Ark on Holiday,” a scheme offering families a week’s break in fully adapted lodges, giving them time together in a different environment.

Currently, Noah’s Ark supports around 350 children and their families and hopes to reach more. The charity focuses on improving the quality of life for children, however short that life may be, and ensuring they receive compassionate end-of-life care.

Alison’s career has taken her from teaching to leading in the charity sector, always with a focus on supporting others. Under her leadership, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospice continues to provide essential care for families facing difficult circumstances.

Credit: A big thank you to sound editors Jon Duval and Connor Duzzi

Introducing Kirk Sargent, the CEO of First Foundation, a New Zealand-based charity committed to empowering talented disadvantaged young people to reach their full potential, and lead positive and fulfilling lives. First Foundation achieves this through a comprehensive approach that includes providing financial assistance, paid work experience, and dedicated mentorship to bright young Kiwis who face challenges in accessing higher education.

Originally from Taranaki, a region in the west of New Zealand's North Island, Kirk now resides in Auckland, where the charity's headquarters are located. With a diverse career background spanning land, construction, and purpose-driven work, Kirk brings a wealth of experience to his role. Having worked in various countries including Fiji, Hawaii, Australia, the UK, and New Zealand, Kirk has witnessed first-hand the transformative power of entrepreneurial and innovative approaches in addressing social and environmental issues. These experiences have fostered in him a deep sense of empathy for different cultures and a resolute determination to contribute to a better world. First Foundation was established in 1998 by respected business leader Steven Carden, who recently re-joined the board of trustees to utilise his skills and experience in ensuring the charity's continued success and the well-being of the young people it supports.

Kirk acknowledges the numerous challenges faced by non-profit leaders, particularly the limited access to resources and funding. However, he expresses gratitude for the dedicated group of donors and corporate supporters who share the organisation's vision and contribute to First Foundation's important work. Kirk also highlights the challenging economic and social realities that underscore the value of First Foundation's efforts, especially considering the burden of student loans on individuals from low-income families. By providing financial assistance and removing barriers, First Foundation goes beyond covering university costs. Their support offers students and their families a sense of opportunity and acts as a powerful incentive for pursuing higher education.

Kirk talks about their goal to create a positive ripple effect that extends through generations. First Foundation scholars, often the first in their family to attend university, testify to the life-changing impact of the support provided by the charity's partners. Additionally, many scholars utilise their improved financial situations to support their parents, siblings, and wider family, further amplifying the far-reaching effects of contributions.

Awarded an OBE and then recognised as Dame for her services to children and young people Benita (Benny) Refson is one of the most influential people in the nonprofit / charity sector. Benny joins Purposely Podcast to talk about her formative years, including the influence of her father, a false start in psych services and then an interlude in the fashion industry with Vogue as a junior runner. Benny then founded the children’s charity Place2Be and grew it and its impact exponentially over a 29 year period as CEO. Place2Be are committed to helping children with their mental health. Their approach to children’s mental health means they aim to intervene early to prevent life-long mental health issues. Benny offers leadership and commercial advice she also discusses the affects of COVID-19.

Introducing James Lewis, a prolific social entrepreneur, and the visionary founder and CEO of Action for Elders, a UK-based charity dedicated to empowering and enhancing the lives of older people. Through their impactful in-person programs, Action for Elders encourages physical activity, fosters social connections, and combats isolation and loneliness. James's career has been a fascinating blend of entertainment and philanthropy. As a former music broadcaster, he delighted audiences with his syndicated music show, reaching listeners across the Atlantic. Alongside his entertaining endeavours, James has been a catalyst for positive change, establishing and scaling various social enterprises and charities in both the UK and the United States, benefiting people of all ages. However, James's journey as a charity founder began with the establishment of a poignant organisation named in honour of his late son, Christian, who tragically lost his life to neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer, at the age of 5. This charity aimed to improve the lives of children diagnosed with cancer, primarily by providing funding for specialist nurses who could offer vital support and care both in hospitals and at home. While the charity continues to exist today under the name "The Kids Cancer Charity," James has shifted his focus and dedication entirely to the growth and expansion of Action for Elders. Action for Elders strives to make a transformative difference in the lives of older individuals, aiming to support as many as possible. By promoting exercise, fostering social connections, and addressing the challenges of isolation and loneliness, the charity empowers older individuals to embrace a fulfilling and vibrant life. Under James's determined leadership, Action for Elders has become a beacon of hope for isolated elders, providing essential programs and support. In addition to his charitable work, James maintains a prominent presence in the world of music. As a syndicated radio show host, he currently presents "A Soulful Experience with JL," a weekly show featured on over 30 stations worldwide. Through intimate and conversational interviews with renowned artists such as Gregory Porter, Jamie Cullum, Michael Bublé, and Jamie Foxx, James creates a uniquely engaging experience for his audience. Recognized for his remarkable achievements, James is a serial social entrepreneur. In 2002, he received the National 'Leading the Way' award in the UK, sponsored by the CBI, for his business endeavours focused on employing individuals considered challenging to employ. He also holds numerous board positions, including Vice Chair of Foothold Cymru, where he chairs the Finance and General Purposes Committee. James Lewis's contributions to society have been substantial, including his founding of The Kids Cancer Charity and his current leadership of Action for Elders. His dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others is an inspiration to many.

Gauri Manglik joins Purposely to share her founder story starting Instrumentl. 

Every year Americans give over $400 million through philanthropy, in 2020 that amount rose to $470 million, largely because of the pandemic and the increased need. This is a  phenomenal amount of money that is crucial to the wellbeing of millions around the world.

Gauri Manglik is someone focused on improving this industry and its effectiveness to ensure greater impact. In 2014 Gauri and her co founder Angela Braren launched Instrumentl, a web based software solution to help smooth the transfer of funds between institutions and the causes they want to support. It's like a matching service for institutional donors and nonprofits focused on making a positive difference to society and the environment.

Instrumentl is a member of the highly regarded Y- Combinator start-up, winning funding and support soon after launch. It was built to help fundraisers make the best use of their valuable time and energy and their aim was to make the grant process faster, easier, and more efficient.

Gauri and her team are headquartered in San Francisco, although their software is used in every US state and country around the world.

'We think it's time for the lack of available funding to stop getting in the way. Our mission is to help you move the world forward, one project at a time'

Gauri was also the founder of Fondu, a review site started in New York in 2010 using location data software, Gauri sold it to AirBNB going to work for the accommodation booking platform as a mobile product expert until she left to start Instrumentl. Prior to that Gauri was a developer for Blackrock, joining the investment firm in 2009.

Gauri was born in Raipur, India, before moving in her early years to Palos Verdes, Calif., and then Briarcliff Manor, New York She comes from (and still practices) the Hindu faith, and hails from a family of doctors, business people and politicians.

Key links related to this episode:

• The Ultimate Grant Writing Resources Collection
• Upcoming live, free grant writing classes
• 14-day free trial at www.instrumentl.com, use PURPOSELYPOD50 for $50 off your annual or monthly subscription

Kathleen Owsley joins Purposely to share her story starting the Bosch Community Fund.

The fund has donated over $37 million since inception in 2011 and it is the corporate foundation for Bosch in North America.

Kathleen was inspired by her sister whose life was tragically cut short at the age of 41. This experience made her determined to live her life to the full and get the most out of it ‘I felt like I was living my life for both of us’.

Kathleen also talks about her Irish heritage influencing her desire to help others and want to make a positive impact to people’s lives, ‘one of our (cultural) attributes is to want to feed people, support people and be generous’

In the 90’s Kathleen spent time in France and Ireland and rather dramatically she cashed in her 401K (pension) and went backpacking around Ireland. Kathleen also studied Irish history in Northern Ireland. It was at the end of this period of study that she ended up temping at Bosch not realising at the time that she was go on to lead their foundation in North America.

A return to the United States and a random lunch led to Kathleen to the opportunity to launch the Bosch Community Fund as their founding Director.  We go into the start up phase of the fund and how those early decisions about structure, giving themes, approach to giving has led to its success and enduring effectiveness.

The Fund is a grant maker and focuses on the enrichment of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education and advancing environmental sustainability initiatives. They partner with charitable organisations and educational institutions across the US to provide quality project-based learning hands-on learning opportunities for students and professional development for teachers.

https://www.bosch.us/our-company/social-responsibility/

Hope and Homes for Children was founded by Mark Cook OBE, a retired Colonel, and his wife Caroline. The first project was an orphanage in Croatia, in a town called Lipik. Cook was posted there as part of the United Nations Protection Force. Initially, he and other soldiers repaired war-damaged orphanages before realising that what children really required was a family. Hope and Homes for children then began to pioneer the deinstitutionalisation of orphanages and children's homes. By August 2018, the charity had closed 105 institutions in nine countries, prevented around 20,000 children entering or re-entering institutions and had helped to change childcare systems. Mark talks about how the early the early mistakes they made on their charitable journey; “We had presumed that what these children needed was food, a roof over their heads, a safe place to sleep and an education, but the children themselves guided us to their heart of our mission – they desperately wanted and needed to be loved. “Over the years we have visited numerous orphanages in many countries. Some were awful and smelled so bad that we felt sick and wanted to leave; others were better, being reasonably equipped and staffed. But the one thing we never found in any orphanage was the feeling of unconditional love that is at the heart of a caring family. “Love became the key to our work and we have quite unashamedly focused on and talked about it ever since.” The charity is still having a significant impact under the expert leadership leadership of CEO Mark Waddington. Hope and Homes for Children working alongside governments and civil society organisations in over 30 countries to dismantle orphanage-based care systems. Their model of transformation is driving reform and laying the foundations for long-lasting change globally.

James Palmer joins Purposely Podcast to share his founder story starting Community Finance and Positive Capital. James founded Community Finance in 2019 on a mission to significantly grow the community housing sector.  He formed Positive Capital in 2021 to provide an investment vehicle to help scale their mission. ‘seventy percent of renters in New Zealand require financial support from the State, billions spent propping up the low-income housing industry each year’. Currently a safe, warm affordable home is out of reach for many in New Zealand. Community Finance connects investors and organisations who have the means and desire to help make that dream a reality. ‘Our aim was to build a bridge between philanthropists, Government, and impact investors to help solve the housing crisis affecting low-income families’ Just getting started James and his team have already raised over $40 million and on target to deliver 118 new affordable quality homes to marginalised and low-income New Zealanders. James has a strongly held belief that finance can be a force for good, he also has a passion for impact investment and believes it can play a vital role in solving social and environmental issues working alongside Governments, charities, and foundations. James was previously Chief Executive of Christian Savings, New Zealand’s only charity that is also a licensed non-bank deposit taker, managing almost $250m. Prior to that he was a commercial lawyer, following in his father’s footsteps he made the difficult decision to walk away from the family firm and launch a career in finance. ‘Delivering that message to my father was tough, although he was a better lawyer than me and I knew that I wanted to do something else. I had a strong desire to be part of a purpose driven business that’s focus was to make a positive and lasting difference to people’s live at scale’ James is the 2021 INFINZ University of Auckland Business School Emerging Leader.

New Zealander Steven Zinsli first featured on Purposely in 2021 (#59) and he returns to share the very latest on his fintech company HealthNow. They are focused on improving accessibility and equity in healthcare. We reflect briefly on his founder story and then dive into how he is growing and scaling his company across the Globe.  Despite never being to America (mainly because of travel restrictions caused by Covid) he has led the acquisition of a ‘mission aligned’ business in the United States therefore transforming their reach.

HealthNow is a company that combines a focus on making profit alongside purpose and social impact. You could say a new kind of company measuring success in different 'better world' ways.

HealthNow is a platform that allows customers distribute the cost of their healthcare and they  subscribe to their future health needs via self-insurance through their digital health wallets. In addition, employers make tangible financial contributions to their employees’ healthcare with the aim of ensuring a healthy work force.

The platform breaks down healthcare costs into smaller bits, making those big health bills into smaller health bills, and making customers more amenable to the cost and out-of-pocket element.

Steven realised that it would be extremely difficult to bring about transformation in the direct healthcare sector using the brick-and-mortar model he tried first. That is why he founded HealthNow and launched the platform to work with existing healthcare service providers and companies within the healthcare space without the need for him to own any clinic.

In April 2022, HealthNow acquired CoverUs a prescription discount business that has a network relationship with 62,000 pharmacies across the United States of America. They grant patients prescription discount coupons to them and thereby removing the barrier of prescription cost.

Steven shares the acquisition story and how the challenges were overcome mainly because ‘we were on the same page, two businesses aligned to the same mission of making healthcare more accessible by removing barriers. Described by Steven ‘as a relatively smooth business transaction’ that means Steven and his investors and advisors now have an American presence. Incredibly did not visit CoverUs’s Portland’s Headquarters at any time during the acquisition, in fact Steven has never been to the States not even as a tourist.

https://healthnow.co.nz/

Charlie Bresler joins Purposely to share his story as co-founder of the charity, The Life You Can Save. In 2013 Charlie started the charity with Peter Singer, widely recognized as one of the world’s most influential contemporary philosophers. He wanted to advance the ideas that Peter layed out in his 2009 book, The Life You Can Save: Acting Now to End World Poverty. In it, Peter argues that if we can provide immense benefit to someone at minimal cost to ourselves, we should absolutely do so.

Charlie was inspired by the book and reached out, offering to help to bring his skills in business, online marketing and initial seed funding to super charge the mission.  Charlie and his wife, Diana, provided funding for The Life You Can Save to become a registered 501c3 charity, and Charlie began serving as the organization’s non-salaried Executive Director.

Their overall vision is to create a world where everyone has an opportunity to build a better life and where there’s no suffering or death due to extreme poverty. The charity’s mission to make ‘smart giving simple’  continues today. They curate a group of nonprofits online that save or improve the most lives per dollar. It helps donors to access and give to good causes with the knowledge that each dollar will have a big impact.

‘We can, each of us, do our part in ending extreme poverty. But we won’t reach our goal unless many more contribute to the effort.’

While Charlie is no longer leading the organisation on a day to day basis he is still involved as a donor and as an active ambassador and spokesperson.

A former professional tennis coach and psychologist Charlie earnt a  PhD in Social and Clinical Psychology from Clark University, he became Director of Behavioural Medicine for The California School of Professional Psychology, Fresno (CSPP-F), where he was a full-time professor and founder of a teaching clinic for treating anxiety & stress disorders.

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode that features one of our friends or past guests sharing their expertise on a specific topic.

This week's episode features Ed Mayo CEO at Pilotlight, discussing how skilled volunteering can help charities deliver their mission more effectively.

Many small charities struggle to access professional expertise, yet skilled volunteers can play a crucial role beyond financial contributions. Ed discusses how volunteering can provide charities with vital skills in areas like finance, digital, and governance—while also offering professionals valuable experience in leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving.

We also look at the mindset challenges charities face, particularly around funding, and why the real focus should be on strategic effectiveness. Ed shares insights on how businesses can benefit from engaging with charities, highlighting the exchange of skills that strengthens both sectors.

🎧 Listen now and explore how skilled volunteering can create real impact.

This interview features the late Camila Batmanghelidjh, and it was recorded and first published on Purposely in July 2020. 

Camila Batmanghelidjh, Child therapist and charity founder, born 1 January 1963; died 1 January 2024

Obituary - The Angel of Peckham

Instantly recognisable in her colourful turbans and kaftans, Camila Batmanghelidjh became a familiar figure in the 2000s, as she toured TV studios to promote her charity Kids Company. 

Passionate and charismatic, she highlighted the plight of thousands of youngsters in Britain's inner cities, who were being traumatised by poverty, abuse and neglect. She estimated that one in three of those that passed through Kids Company's doors slept on the floor; one in four lived in homes without tables or chairs. Deprived of affection and support, these children, she warned, were at risk of growing up into deeply damaged adults. 

Her solution was to shower them with loving kindness. At her centres in London, Bristol and Liverpool, children found a daytime home where they could get everything from hot meals to therapy, said The Daily Telegraph. They were given shoes and clean underwear, helped with their homework, and taken to medical appointments. Her aim, she said, was to make unloved children feel worthwhile; and it was a principle that no one was turned away.

A formidable networker, she raised tens of millions for her cause. J.K. Rowling and Coldplay were among her high-profile donors; Ruby Wax made a documentary about her; and David Cameron's "hug a hoodie" speech was inspired by her. She was dubbed the "Angel of Peckham". 

Some questioned whether she enjoyed the limelight a bit too much; but her methods seemed to work, said The Times. Outside observers estimated that in the first few years of its existence, Kids Company had saved 3,000 children from going to jail or committing violent crimes. But as the charity grew (it had 500 employees at one point, and received £46m in public funding), journalists started to question whether her results were as good as she said, and why her charity was being singled out for taxpayer-funded largesse. 

There were media reports about youngsters being given cash with which to buy designer clothes; and of a young man being sent on a spa break at Champneys. Then, in 2015, the media reported that the charity had mishandled sexual abuse allegations involving its users. In August that year, Kids Company collapsed, and its centres closed.

The court praised her dedication, and said Kids Company would have survived had donors not withdrawn, owing to the allegations In 2022, the Charity Commission came to a different conclusion. It criticised Kids Company's "high-risk business model" and failures of oversight in some spending decisions. 

However, it found that there was no case for regulatory action against any of the key players, and confirmed that there had been no "dishonesty or bad faith".

At 11, she was sent to an English boarding school, Sherborne, then took a degree in dramatic arts , before studying psychology at the Tavistock Clinic in London. 

She spent some time doing social work in south London before starting her charity. After its collapse, she assisted other children's projects, while fighting her legal battles. 

She was unmarried, and had no children of her own. She said that when she got home to her small flat in West Hampstead after 11-hour days at Kids Company, she was quite glad to be child-free.

Batmanghelidjh was unrepentant about her methods: kids who grew up "in ghettos depend on having nice things for their self-esteem", she said. The police found that the sexual abuse claims were unsubstantiated, and in 2021 the High Court cleared her and the other trustees of financial mismanagement. Camila Batmanghelidjh was born, ten weeks premature, into a wealthy Iranian-Belgian family in Tehran in 1963. She weighed 1kg, and was left with an endocrine disorder and neurological problems.  Obituary provided by The Week

Mary Storrie joins Purposely Podcast to tell her inspirational story On the 28th of December 2003 Mary’s world came crashing down. At a Christmas party, Rosie May their only daughter, aged 10 at the time, was brutally murdered by a 17 year old boy she knew. Mary talks about the devastation this caused both to herself, her husband and their two sons. How this violent and senseless act has changed them as a family for ever. In honour of her memory the family dramatically changed the direction of their lives with a focus on helping others. A year after the death of her daughter the family decided to escape the horrific recollections of the Christmas before and go on a family holiday to South East Asia. On Christmas Day, they planted a little palm tree in loving memory of Rosie May. On boxing day, as they stood on the shore of the Indian Ocean the tsunami hit. It claimed more than 230,000 lives across fourteen different countries and was one of the deadliest natural disasters ever recorded. Mary talks about being lucky to survive that disaster, however, she also describes their sense of calm, as her son said succinctly,  ‘we have already faced our worst nightmare’. Mary went back to find the tiny palm tree they had planted, and incredibly it had survive. Mary saw this as a clear sigh that Rosie May was watching over them and had kept them, her brothers and the tiny palm tree safe. This was the inspiration for the Rosie May Foundation. Their personal tragedy gave them the determination to do something extraordinary. To turn tragedy into hope and create a living legacy to the daughter they loved so much. They wanted to give children in crisis the right to a future, one that Rosie May has tragically been denied. Their very first project, the Rosie May Home for girls, was opened for children who had lost parents to the tsunami in Sri Lanka. Today the charity is at the forefront of the deinstitutionalisation (children out of orphanages into smaller loving homes) agenda in Sri Lanka, conducting research driving the process forward, and working with key partners, both in the UK and on the ground. Partners like Hope and Homes for Children (see #16 HHC founder Mark Cook speaks with Purposely Podcast). They also operate in Nepal and their fundraising reach has stretched as far as Australia. Impressively Mary has also been back to University to do a bachelor of arts and a masters in human rights and global citizenship. Mary sees the importance of this later life education to her current role as CEO of an international development charity.  The time spent as an adult student proved therapeutic and she could choose if she wanted to share her story or just be ‘Mary the adult student’. She received several awards for her academic achievements while in Nottingham.

Mike Seawright joined Purposely Podcast to share his founder story with ReliefAid.

Mike Seawright started ReliefAid because he was frustrated by the inability of many aid organisations to get staff and resources into conflict zones quickly and effectively. A decade prior Mike had switched careers from corporate consultant to aid worker and following his first experience in Sudan he has specialised in working in conflict situations.

ReliefAid has gone on to become a respected international aid organisation that is saving lives and alleviating the suffering of people affected by conflict through independent and impartial humanitarian action. They work closely with other international aid partners including ShelterBox.

What is the mission and vision of ReliefAid, the charity you’re founder and CEO of?

‘I'd been working in war zones for a number of years, and I realised from first-hand experience that not enough aid was getting into places like Syria, Yemen, Sudan, Afghanistan, the key conflict hot spots of the world. It was a kind of ‘aha moment’ a realisation that I could help families that no one else could help. Six years later we've supported over 210k people in conflict zones.’

There are 80 million refugees worldwide and 50 million people displaced by conflict or war, can ReliefAid make enough of a difference?

‘The numbers are absolutely staggering and of course you can feel overwhelmed and that not enough can be done. One of the challenges we have when communicating with the New Zealand public and people around the world is stressing that while the numbers are big and the problem is huge, making a positive difference starts with helping one family. We can help people, who through no fault of their own, are forced from their homes by the effects of war and conflict.’

So ReliefAid provides independent and impartial humanitarian action, why is that so important?

‘In a war zone the political parties and warring parties could perceive you to be part of the conflict itself. I have worked in Foreign Affairs as a Diplomat and during that time I could see aid decisions being made based on political and military objectives. We took a lesson from that and when we founded ReliefAid we knew we did not want to be at the mercy of a country's foreign policy. To that end we have had to stay clear of Government money and remain independent and neutral. We don't take sides in the conflict and our focus is on accessing people who need how help and support and the assessments made on the basis of need and not on the basis of political objectives.’

www.reliefaid.org.nz

Welcome to episode 49 with Marcus Exall

A really nice guy, angel investor, business founder and charity trustee.

We talk about how starting and eventually selling a digital agency in London (Blue Barracuda sold to Draftfcb in 2013) changed his life. The conversation starts with his current business helping start-up founders Up and to the right and then he shares hisfounder story, the successful exit, the freedom that brings and some of the investments he has made.

This is a good episode for people wanting to understand how an Angel Investor thinks or wants to understand how a quality funding relationship should work.

His colleagues describe him as a ‘master networker and if he can’t solve your problems he knows someone who can’

He has played a leading role at stellar start-ups such as Monese and Mendi. He is on a mission to make life easier for founders.

‘I am focused on backing the person first and foremost? Mainly businesses ideas change through the process of building them. Most certainly a large part of it for me when I consider an investment is asking myself the questions, do I want to go on a journey with this person. What are their values? that's always a very important bit to me.

‘I'm constantly surprised about the capabilities, the amazing capabilities of the people that I'm fortunate enough to get involved with and most of what interests me about the business is the people themselves. I'm excited in those first interactions, there's a spark to the conversation and maybe they’re challenging challenging me and my ideas.’

Marcus talks about investing in Clim8 Invest and Fairwill, two exciting companies disrupting their respective industry’s (investment and will writing).

Up and 2 the Right - https://u2r.co/

Fairwill - https://farewill.com/

Clim8 Invest - https://clim8invest.com/

Welcoming Dhivya O'Connor's, CEO of the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women and host and founder of The Charity CEO Podcast

Dhivya grew up in India but at the age of 18, Dhivya moved to the UK for her studies. Initially planning to return to India after completing her education, she found herself drawn to the opportunities that the UK offered. For a decade, Dhivya built a successful career in the private sector, holding various strategy, business development, and leadership roles at companies such as GE Capital, Lloyds Bank, and OctopusTravel (now part of Expedia Group).

However, the call to make a more direct impact on society led Dhivya to transition into the charity sector. Over the past 24 years, she has held several senior leadership positions, including CEO roles at United World Schools, the Chartered Institute of Fundraising, and Children with Cancer UK.

Her diverse experience, coupled with her innate drive to create equitable opportunities for women and girls, made her the perfect fit for her current role as CEO of the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women.

Founded by Cherie Blair in 2008, the Foundation aims to empower women entrepreneurs in low-income countries through training, research, and ecosystem collaboration. Under Dhivya's leadership, the organisation continues to address the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, particularly in accessing finance and education. The Foundation's work emphasises the importance of amplifying the voices of women entrepreneurs and creating opportunities for them to thrive.

Dhivya's commitment to the charity sector extends beyond her day job. She serves as a Board Member of Book Aid International and is on the Steering Committee of Groundbreakers, a network promoting women leaders in the voluntary sector. She has also volunteered with NGOs in India, South Africa, and Cambodia, bringing her expertise and passion to various causes around the world.

In August 2020, while on maternity leave with her second child, Dhivya launched "The Charity CEO Podcast." This chart-topping show, which now boasts over 20,000 listeners across 55 countries, aims to inspire, inform, and deliver practical insights on the challenges facing charity leaders today. Through candid and meaningful conversations, Dhivya delves deep into issues relevant to leaders across the sector and those who care about the important work of charities and non-profit organisations.

Dhivya shares her diverse experiences in both the private and charity sectors, combined with her personal understanding of the challenges faced by women in developing countries. Dhivya’s is uniquely positions her to lead the Cherie Blair Foundation for Women now and in the future.

Meet Sarah Green, CEO of the Katie Piper Foundation, a UK-based charity that provides support and advocacy for burns survivors. With a career that started in finance, Sarah transitioned to the charity sector in 2003 as a fundraiser for a small international development charity. She later focused on event-based fundraising for the St Elizabeth and St Helena hospices before joining the Katie Piper Foundation. 

Sarah's passion for the health sector was inspired by the care and support her late father received, along with her family. She was determined to lead an organisation one day, so she invested in relevant qualifications, successfully completing a Master’s degree in Voluntary Sector Management. 

In October 2018, Sarah was appointed CEO of the Katie Piper Foundation, realising her dream of leading an organisation. While this was an exciting opportunity for both Sarah and the foundation, she faced unforeseen challenges with the COVID-19 pandemic and economic disruption. These challenges have led to a cost-of-living crisis, which may negatively affect the charities' ability to raise funds. 

The Katie Piper Foundation, established in 2009 by burns survivor Katie Piper, is proud to be survivor-led, providing in-person and virtual rehabilitation services. They support adult survivors of burns and those living with severe trauma scarring, addressing both their physical and mental health. 

Katie started the foundation from her parents' house a year into her recovery from a horrific acid attack outside a North London internet café. The attack caused third-degree burns to her face and chest and blinded her in one eye. Prior to the attack, Piper had a career in modelling and TV presenting, planning a future in the media. Though her life changed forever that day, Katie remained determined to fulfil her potential and not let the attack define her. While Katie's journey to recovery has been long and difficult, requiring surgery to clear blockages caused by scar tissue, she has become an inspiration for other burns survivors, both personally and through the foundation's work. 

Today, the Katie Piper Foundation provides rehabilitation services, including physiotherapy and emotional support, and advocates for survivors, helping to connect them to the services and interventions they require. The foundation's work is a testament to the strength and resilience of burns survivors and the dedication of Sarah and her team. 

Katie remains heavily involved in the charity and, as one of nine skilled volunteers, serves as a trustee. In addition, the charity has two notable ambassadors: celebrity music guru Simon Cowell and businessman Simon McCabe. 

Kelvyn Eglinton joins Purposely to share his leadership journey, straddling sport and community sectors alongside corporate and government. Kelvyn thrives in pressure situations, adept at sensitively working with groups of people who do not necessarily share the same views and carefully managing high stake situations. Kelvyn points to his ability to empathise with other people's perspectives. He works hard to truly listen to their side of the story, the fears they may have in any given situation.  He has significant experience working through conflict to find resolution for business and social outcomes. A unique capability to navigate complex governance, management and political relationships and retain stakeholders at the table progressing on issues. Kelvyn has had a wide-ranging career that has included international mining, local government, urban growth strategy, central government roles and the sport industry provide a platform to showcase these skills. ​We explore Kelvyn's approach to life and how his upbringing helped shape who he is today. He lives by his Dad's advice,  "If you can shake hands and laugh with the workers and the Mayor in the same day, you will do well in this world." We go deep into his current role as CEO of Momentum Waikato, co-ordinating generous donors with transformative projects. Kelvyn has played an instrumental role in raising the funds for a new theatre project in Hamilton. Beyond just raising the funds, more than $80 million, he has coordinated all stakeholders in the project to ensure that everyone is in agreement with the plans and the whole community will benefit. Before returning to NZ, Kelvyn was the Chief of Staff in the Jakarta office for Newmont Mining Corporation and oversaw the renegotiation of the contract of work with the Government of Indonesia and the social responsibility programmes of the operation on Sumbawa Island and North Sulawesi. For six years Kelvyn was based in Perth as Asia Pacific Director for External Affairs overseeing government, communications, and development programmes across operations in five countries and prior to that was the External Affairs Manager for Newmont Waihi Gold in NZ. Kelvyn is a Registered Independent Commissioner for RMA hearings alongside his roles on social performance panels for resource companies. He sits on the Boards the Waipa Communities Facilities Trust, Surf Lifesaving NZ and is a Trustee for the NZ Surf Lifesaving Foundation and Hospice Waikato.