#272 'Trust Based Philanthropy', Seumas Fantham Executive Director at Todd Foundation

In this episode of Purposely Podcast, we are joined by Seumas Fantham (Ngāti Porou, Whakatōhea), Chief Executive of the Todd Foundation.

We talk about how philanthropy can move beyond forms, reports and checkboxes — towards something built on trust, honesty, and shared learning.

Seumas is clear that effective giving isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about building real relationships, being open to challenge, and making it safe for partners to be upfront when things don’t go as planned.

At the Todd Foundation, that thinking has shaped their approach to funding. Since 2009, they’ve supported community-led initiatives through long-term, high-trust partnerships — untagged funding that gives organisations the space and confidence to lead their own work. Seumas explained that this approach recognises the natural ups and downs that come with running a community organisation — leadership changes, internal challenges, or times when things simply feel tough. Rather than stepping away, the Foundation looks to stand alongside their partners and, when needed, work with other funders to help them through.

We also talked about the culture change required for funders — to move from being grant-makers to genuine partners. It takes humility and a willingness to listen. For Seumas, that’s the real heart of effective philanthropy.

Away from the office, Seumas stays grounded through whānau and the small moments that bring perspective — like sharing a chocolate fish with his daughter. It’s a reminder, he says, of what truly matters and the kind of presence he brings to his work.

Seumas’s reflections are a timely reminder that good funding is built on trust, not control — and that lasting impact starts with genuine partnership.