Kate Grant, CEO of the Fistula Foundation, discusses the impact of obstetric fistula in low-resource settings, challenges in aid effectiveness, and the transformative power of fistula surgery. She shares insights on transitioning from advertising to charity work, empowering women through surgery, and balancing emotions with data in philanthropy.
Obstetric fistula surgeries by the Fistula Foundation transform women's health and dignity.
Kate Grant critiques philanthropy's lack of focus on structural gender inequalities in aid efforts.
Deep dives
The Impact of Fistula Foundation in Transforming Women's Lives
The Fistula Foundation, led by Kate Grant, has played a significant role in transforming the lives of women suffering from obstetric fistula. Through funding surgeries, the foundation has enabled thousands of women to regain their health and dignity, highlighting the importance of addressing health issues that affect marginalized communities.
Overcoming Structural Inequality in Charitable Giving
Despite the success of organizations like GiveWell in evaluating charities based on cost-effectiveness, Kate Grant criticizes the lack of focus on structural gender inequalities in philanthropic efforts. She advocates for a more balanced approach that considers the specific needs and challenges faced by women in marginalized communities.
The Evolution and Challenges of the Fistula Foundation
The Fistula Foundation's journey from a small organization supporting a single hospital to a global initiative providing surgeries across Africa and Asia reflects continuous growth and impact. However, challenges remain, such as the need for sustained funding to reach more women in need and address structural inequalities.
The Motivation Behind Philanthropy and the Quest for More Support
Kate Grant's personal dedication to improving women's lives through the Fistula Foundation demonstrates the diverse motivations driving philanthropic endeavors. While she acknowledges the joy and fulfillment derived from helping others, she emphasizes the ongoing need for increased support and funding to expand the foundation's reach and impact.
Peter & Kasia are in-conversation with Kate Grant, a leading figure in the fight against obstetric fistula. This episode explores Kate's transition from a successful advertising career to working in international development and eventually leading the Fistula Foundation as CEO. Kate explains what obstetric fistula is, its impact on women in low-resource settings, and the challenges in addressing it due to socioeconomic and gender inequalities. Kate talks about her personal motivations, and her critical perspective on global aid effectiveness and philanthropy. Kate emphasises the transformative power of fistula surgery and the importance of addressing structural inequalities to make a lasting impact on women's health.