PA Conference
The Philanthropy Australia Conference was held in Adelaide in August.
‘Shifting Perspectives, Shifting Practice’
Jenni D’Orival & I recently attended the Philanthropy Australia Conference in Adelaide. It was wonderful to catch up with so many clients and candidates and meet new people. We gained further insights and understanding of the current environment, trends, impacts and decision-making within the philanthropy space and it’s always inspiring to hear from incredible, generous and thought-provoking leaders.
At Gembridge, Growth Mindset and Curiosity are important team values. Continuing to learn within the sectors we recruit in is vital to our success, along with building networks and relationships. So it’s great to listen, learn and connect.
We have attended many conferences in the For Purpose Sector, but this was our first ever Philanthropy Australia Conference. There was so much valuable content, including an introduction by Maree Sidey who stated in her opening address that “Philanthropy is having a moment”. The program and speakers were excellent and diverse with the theme of Shifting Perspective, Shifting Practice.
“Shifting Perspectives, Shifting PracticE” was the overarching theme. Others that surfaced through the program for me include:
First Nations
The genuine commitment to First Nations and Diversity & Inclusion was threaded through the Conference beautifully. We were inspired by many speakers including the brave and raw truth-telling plenary by Stacey Thomas from Wyatt Trust. Importantly, she stated, “the process of reconciliation isn’t work for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, it’s work for all of us, and it is everyone’s responsibility.”
Another panel session, Strengthening First Nations Led Giving: centering First Peoples highlighted the importance of listening, learning, sharing stories, and walking together. Leeroy Bilney mentioned that “It takes time” and “It’s OK not to know the answer right now”.
Panel Session, Strengthening First Nations led giving: centering First Peoples
Leadership
Dr Kirstin Ferguson, author of Head & Heart: The Art of Modern Leadership and Women Kind generously shared stories (and humour) of leadership, both her own and through the learnings of others.
She shared so many quotes:
“Leadership is simply a series of moments, and every moment offers us an opportunity to lead with impact.”
She reinforced the need for a balanced approach, both Head and Heart.
HEAD – Curiosity, Wisdom, Perspective & Capability
HEART – Humility, Self Awareness, Courage, Empathy
When looking for leaders for our clients in Fundraising, Philanthropy and Social/Environmental Impact organisations, these attributes are high on the list, but regardless of sector, balance is important in leading people through success and challenges.
Along with two books, Kirstin has her own blog in the Sydney Morning Herald, which you can find here. ‘
James Chen, Leading vision
So extraordinary and inspiring! James shared his 30-year journey and vision to make eye care accessible and affordable for everyone.
The joy of giving
Philanthropy can be complex and messy, but also joyful. And EVERYONE can get involved. Several Giving Circles were represented, which are all wonderful to connect and grow giving.
Claire Herschell, Co-Founder and Board Director of Groundswell shared the journey of building a community of connected people who care about the environment and creating a positive vibe of just being joyful. It’s infectious and people want to be involved! I agree, and this is what I see and feel with Giving Circles I am involved in, including the Melbourne Women’s Fund and Impact100.
Thank you to the hardworking team of Philanthropy Australia and all the speakers for inspiring our own giving (personally, via Gembridge and through our volunteering roles).
The 2024 Conference was the biggest one yet. We are looking forward to attending again in Brisbane on 8-10 September 2026. See you there!
Jenni (left) and I enjoying a bit of sunshine outside of the Conference.