Gembridge at events, Connecting with People (Gems)

Pictured: Speaker Ken Burnett receiving an Aussie Akubra hat with an Auslan interpreter and James Garland seated, at CEOs in Fundraising event.

CEOs in Fundraising event

Last week, Team Gembridge was out in full force, gathering valuable insights from key players in the for-purpose sector. The week began with the CEO Breakfast, a tailored event designed specifically for CEOs and Board Directors to explore fundraising trends and best practices. The highlight of the event was the keynote address by Ken Burnett, who shared his extensive knowledge on empowering fundraising teams, nurturing supporters, and advocating for conscious, ethical fundraising practices. The event, delivered in partnership with Koda Capital, DGB Global, and Gembridge, received incredibly positive feedback.

Down-Under Tour with Ken Burnett

One morning with Ken simply wasn’t enough. Jenni and I were delighted to attend the Down-Under Tour with Ken Burnett, hosted by Precision Group, Fundraising Nest and DGB Global. We gathered, amidst idyllic ocean views, to discuss the idea of “a new era of responsible fundraising”, centred around gratitude, impact and wellbeing. Donor journeys were placed under the microscope and fundraisers were encouraged to dive deeper into how they ensure holistic and positive experiences for their donors. It was a timely reminder of the impact that can come from a simple thank you, and how gratitude could be the epicentre for growth opportunities across the fundraising landscape.  

Ken Burnett Quote from the DownUnder Tour

It’s evident also that the wellbeing of our hard-working fundraisers needs to be a focal point moving forward, being key to sector retention. Work life balance, right to disconnect and opportunities for wellbeing and ongoing professional development is so important. After all, a healthy fundraiser is the key to a healthy pipeline of supporters.


Tessa introducing at FIA PD event - Gembridge is the VIC Chapter Sponsor

FIA Victoria: Growing your donor pool, strategies for donor acquisition and retention.

We wrapped up our wonderful week of learnings and mingling with an insightful PD session offered through FIA Victoria. We heard from IG and DM experts on the value of tailored communications, impactful design and clear donor pathways.  



Key Takeaways

My key takeaways from this fruitful week of fundraising workshops: 

  • When you gather individuals driven by purpose and the potential to facilitate positive change, an air of authentic connection and belonging is inevitable

  • It’s time for workplace wellbeing to take off, less talk and more action!  

  • Saying thank you may not cost you a thing, but not saying thank you could cost you millions.  

I love attending thought-provoking events like these, as they play a crucial role in ongoing learning, fostering authenticity, and building meaningful connections — all of which are at the heart of Gembridge. We are committed to staying informed and engaged within the sector, and this week provided fantastic opportunities for networking, expanding knowledge, and gaining deeper insights into the world of fundraising. Thank You!