Even though I worked in fundraising in the NFP sector for more than 10 years, I had only been to the FIA Conference ONCE… that is, until this year!
It was such a pleasure to be able to attend again, this time with the Gembridge team and including being the sponsor of the Leadership track and having a stand at the Exhibition. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to meet new people and connect with old friends and just be around like-minded people who are doing amazing work for causes they care about.
Just before coming to work at Gembridge, I was working at an international development organisation. So, when Naomi Steer, formerly of Australia for UNHCR, spoke during the Syd Herron Oration at the Opening Plenary Session, I was all ears.
Hearing from Naomi was truly awe-inspiring for many different reasons. From the fact that she began the organisation as a tiny start-up to then go on and raise $430 million… to her undeniable impact towards humanitarian efforts… to her absolute passion for helping refugees and displaced people… there was just so much to take in.
One week on, I am still thinking about Naomi’s words and inspired by the good work she and Australia for UNHCR were and are able to do for the world’s displaced and vulnerable. The impact just one person or one organisation can leave on the world is truly amazing.
And this is one of the reasons why I’m thrilled to still be able to work closely with a variety of incredible NFPs that do inspiring work every day.
Naomi’s Syd Herron Oration was awe-inspiring.