Ground-breaking sessions, captivating exhibits and countless connections
As I entered the exhibit at the annual Fundraising Institute Australia Conference, honestly, I was a little nervous! With my recruitment background, stepping into a new sector with the desire to grow my fundraising knowledge, it didn’t take long for the imposter syndrome to creep in. Little did I know at the time, I was surrounded by some of the most passionate, resilient, and driven individuals I have ever had the honour of meeting.
With my background predominantly comprised of recruiting for hospitality and office management positions, I was quick to notice a sense of inspiration and contagious enthusiasm only found within the lively nature of those working in the fundraising sector. I was more excited than ever to dive in and learn all there is to know about this impactful industry.
FIA Conference 2024 - L to R: Michelle, Tessa, Malu, Dawn
Sessions were abundant with engaging topics and speakers, including but not limited to;
Bernard Ross’ plenary on donor psyche, which outlined the simplicity of how the human mind shapes our giving efforts through evolutionary learnings, neuroscience, and behavioural economics.
The captivating panel discussion Overcoming The 6 Fundraisers’ Dilemmas, presented by industry icons Luke Toebelmann, Peter Dalton, Steffi Chang, Karen McComiskey and Dan Kneipp. The openness and authenticity of the panel, alongside that awesome photo of Peter circa 1980 hiking through the Tasmanian wilderness, guaranteed audience engagement.
Dawn Patrick’s FIA debut, facilitating Where Did I Come From?, alongside industry leaders Michelle Varcoe, Peter Copp, Caitlin McKinnell and Joshua O’Rourke. This session offered an open discussion on the differing journeys that led to their integral roles within the fundraising sector. With dreams of hosting “Corey Worthington” style parties, fighting crime and nurturing patients back to health, the audience were delighted to hear how these inspiring people “fell in to fundraising”.
And, my personal conference standout, Leading Through Fire, a powerful story of resilience presented by Svitlana Pugach and Olha Poliakh. Commemorating two years since the Russian Invasion of Ukraine, attendees were in awe of these phenomenal Ukrainian women from start to finish. Time stood still throughout this harrowing tale of raising funds from a warzone to support children faced with a cruel “double jeopardy”; battling cancer while their nation battles for freedom. This session was a reminder of the importance of true connection, kindness, and collaboration.
One of my biggest takeaways from FIA 2024 was a mindset that is so purely unique to those within this purposeful sector;
That our lives provide an opportunity to shape the future;
That we have the ability to zoom out and map out a journey that is impactful;
That it doesn’t take as much as you’d think to change a narrative of tragedy and trauma into one of inspiration and hope.
All of this can only be possible with the hard work and dedication of fundraisers and the empathetic generosity of those with capacity to give. I found the FIA Conference to be place of belonging and connection, where people from all walks of life are welcomed with open arms (no imposter syndrome required).
Leadership panel at FIA Conference 2024 with Gembridge’s Dawn (far left) and Michelle (far right).