People Inspired By Purpose - Purposely Podcast

Welcome to Purposely SHORT, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic. This weeks episode features Jo Taylor Executive Chair of 'Pay What It Takes' (PWIT), a coalition between for purpose organisations and funders aiming to redefine philanthropy and reshape the funding landscape for the charitable sector. Their objective is to challenge the cycle of underfunding and organisational challenges by advocating for unrestricted funding or a 30% addition to project-based funding to adequately cover indirect costs. Episode Highlights - The importance of looking elsewhere for inspiration, to other parts of the world where people and organisations may have tackled the same or similar issues. That is what Jo and her team did when they looked at American foundations who had the same issue and were solving the same problem (the starvation cycle). -Practical steps on running a successful campaign: Focus on those organisations and people closest to your mission and who are the most aligned at the start of your campaign Peer leadership and adoption / buy in crucial to the success of any campaign particularly in philanthropy Context: A pivotal catalyst for this movement was the inquiry titled 'A Sector in Peril,' laying the foundation for collaboration among like-minded foundations. The Coalition led by Jo, and comprising Philanthropy Australia, the Centre for Social Impact, Social Ventures Australia, The Origin Foundation, and the Paul Ramsay Foundation, conducted comprehensive research, interviews, literature reviews, case studies, and workshops to address chronic underfunding of core operational expenses within Australian organizations. The vulnerabilities exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic further emphasized the critical need for adequate funding. Listen to Episode #176 of Purposely for more, where Jo emphasises the necessity to challenge misconceptions surrounding indirect costs and advocates for a redefined evaluation of efficiency and effectiveness by funders. This paradigm shift demands courage and peer leadership within the sector, recognising the entrenched mental models ingrained in both funders and nonprofit organizations that need to be reshaped. Jo is also the CEO of The Siddle Family Foundation.

Sarah, a regular walker along her local beach, combines exercise with podcast episodes to help her learn, develop and find inspiration. On this particular occasion, she listened to an interview with Bianca Tavella, the founder of Fair Shot Café in the UK (on Purposely Ep #48). Fair Shot is a social enterprise café that supports young adults with learning disabilities in finding jobs in the hospitality industry. As Sarah immersed herself in Bianca's founder story, she experienced a profound and personal reaction. Although she had never met Bianca or heard of Fair Shot before, Sarah felt a mix of inspiration and frustration that someone else had brought her dream to life before she could. At this point Sarah has been trying to open a training café, the first in NZ, for over eight years. That walk and podcast episode were a turning point for Sarah. She felt compelled to take action and bring her dream to life in New Zealand. In September 2021, Sarah and her founding trustees launched Project Employ, opening their first training café in Takapuna on Auckland's North Shore. It was a few kilometres away from the beach where Sarah had made the decision to turn her dream into reality. Since then, they have opened a second café in partnership with Air New Zealand, located in the airline's Auckland Headquarters. Sarah successfully shared her dream with others, including volunteers and funders, and the progress made by the charity has been remarkable. Sarah defies the stereotype of a charity founder or CEO. Despite her extensive experience in special needs education for schools and charities, she lacks leadership experience. She openly admits to experiencing imposter syndrome and having to overcome a crisis of confidence to bring Project Employ to life. Sarah's belief in her mission stems from her firsthand experience as a teacher, witnessing the transformative power of belief and support in someone's life. The reality is that people with disabilities are more than twice as likely to be unemployed compared to non-disabled individuals, both in New Zealand and globally. Project Employ's vision is to create a community where young people with intellectual or learning disabilities have meaningful, paid employment, just like any other member of society. Unlike Fair Shot Café, Project Employ doesn't solely focus on hospitality. While work experience in serving and food preparation builds confidence, it also empowers individuals to pursue their dreams and contribute to society. Starting a charity is incredibly challenging. It requires a clear mission, vision, and, most importantly, funding to get off the ground. Convincing funders to support your vision is one of the toughest tasks. Funders seek confidence, a track record, and assurance that their funds will be used effectively to make a significant impact. Sarah has achieved the near-impossible. With little to no previous experience or personal wealth, she leveraged her dream, lived experience, and passion for people with disabilities to launch and scale Project Employ. She successfully convinced funders to believe in her vision. Sarah was also willing to sacrifice her own earning power, initially working for free to get the project started. She acknowledges that none of this would have been possible without the early founding team and volunteers who brought the experience she lacked. Together, they are making it happen. Most importantly, graduates of Project Employ are finding employment, and those who haven't yet secured a job have gained significant confidence and self-belief.

Welcome to Purposely Short, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic. This weeks episode features Rupert Abbott Executive Director of GiveOut a community foundation supporting LGBTQI communities. How? They pool donations from donors to provide grants to LGBTQI organisations around the world, ensuring that they have more of the resources they need to defend communities, tackle inequalities and campaign for lasting change. Rupert shares their approach and the practical steps they take to deliver their mission. Episode Highlights Funding the right causes and organisations - their approach to due diligence and how they choose the causes they fund. Building the fund - how they have had success attracting support + donors to build and maintain the fund. A qualified lawyer Rupert has over 15 years’ international human rights and social impact experience. Rupert is also a trustee of the Association of Charitable Foundations UK.

Ah-Leen Rayner, the CEO of Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand, proudly hails from the western suburbs of Auckland, New Zealand's largest city - a proud 'Westie!' She stands as the sole member of her family to pursue higher education, successfully completing a Bachelor of Arts in Biological Anthropology and an M.B.A. Ah-Leen's illustrious corporate career spans three decades across diverse sectors. In early 2021, Ah-Leen made a transition to the charity sector, assuming the role of CEO at Breast Cancer Foundation NZ. Her appointment perfectly aligned with the trustees' vision of having a leader with robust business and commercial experience. Ah-Leen joins Purposely to share her organization's vision, mission, and her personal career journey, from her remarkable tenure at 3M to the unique challenges of leading a charity reliant on fundraising and donations. She emphasises the psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis, the significance of data in the fight against cancer, and the pressing need to reach underserved communities. The foundation's vision is clear and concise: "zero deaths from breast cancer." However, achieving this vision remains a formidable challenge, despite the remarkable advancements in breast cancer research, treatments, and medicine. Encouragingly, there has been a 43% decrease in the breast cancer mortality rate over the past two decades, signifying tangible progress towards the foundation's vision. The charity's approach revolves around continuously pushing the boundaries of early detection, treatment, and support.   Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among women in New Zealand and the third most common overall. Approximately one in nine New Zealand women will face breast cancer in their lifetime, with two men diagnosed each week. Most women diagnosed (70%-75%) and those affected by mortality (80%) are aged 50 years or older. While some women face a higher risk due to family history, most cases occur in women without relatives affected by the disease. Even among those with a family history, the majority will never develop breast cancer.   As Breast Cancer Foundation NZ strives for zero deaths from breast cancer, they play an active and vital role in providing education, support, and resources to all New Zealanders, including those in remote areas and ethnic groups with poorer outcomes. Their comprehensive offerings encompass breast awareness, screening, risk assessment, and overall health. The foundation also extends crucial support services to individuals and families affected by breast cancer. Collaborating with healthcare professionals, they provide resources, education, and training to ensure optimal patient care. Additionally, the foundation actively engages in research, funding impactful studies, and advocating for breast cancer treatment issues.

Welcome to Purposely Short, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic. This weeks episode features Angus Crowther co-founder of Tanck. Angus shares how they help nonprofits and 'for purpose businesses' to communicate effectively with government officials. How ability to do this can positively effect your ability to make a positive impact and increase their reach. Episode highlights: - 'Providing technical details as well as a compelling narrative and a narrative arc is important' - Data important and can grab the attention of politicians Quote: 'Remember politicians are competing with the Kardashians for eyeballs on twitter' Based in Australia... although still relevant in other parts of the world Tanck's mission is to empower purpose-led organisations by providing the know-how and the strategy for impactful government engagement. Tanck is B Corp certified consultancy firm is on a mission to level the playing field by countering the influence of lobbyists and private interests that often shape policy decisions. United by their shared dedication to positive change, Angus Crowther and (co founder) Neil Pharaoh are reshaping the dynamics of government engagement for nonprofits.

Welcoming Daniel McGowan to Purposely, where he shares his organisation's mission and his career journey from research fellow to charity CEO. Daniel's extensive experience as a neuroscientist, health writer and editor, and company director make him the ideal leader for Cure Parkinson's NZ. As CEO, he is on a mission to cure Parkinson's disease and drive significant advancements in translational research for early diagnosis and disease progression prevention. Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative condition that affects various neurological functions. Cure Parkinson's NZ is dedicated to raising and disbursing funding to accelerate research leading to new therapies that can stop or slow progression. The history of the charity is rooted in the personal experience of its founder, Bernie Crosby, ONZM, and his wife Kaye Crosby, also ONZM. After Bernie's diagnosis with Parkinson's, they established the Neuro Research Charitable Trust (still the official name of the charity) to raise one million dollars for Parkinson's research. Bernie's positive mindset and determination have transformed his diagnosis setbacks into opportunities to support others. In 2005, Bernie received his Parkinson's diagnosis. In 2010, Bernie and Kaye crossed paths with Dr. Maurice Curtis of the Centre for Brain Research (CBR) at the University of Auckland. Driven by his passion and energy for understanding the brain and its disorders, Bernie decided to raise funds for the CBR. In 2013, the Neuro Research Charitable Trust was established with the goal of raising one million dollars in five years. By the end of 2022, the Trust had successfully raised $2.3 million dollars to support CBR research. Prior to founding the trust, Bernie and Kaye built Prolife Foods into one of New Zealand's largest privately owned food businesses. Their commitment to fostering strong relationships and their support for numerous educational and recreational grants have left a lasting impact on the Hamilton community. In recognition of their contributions, they were both awarded an ONZM in 2014 for their services to business and philanthropy. Bernie and Kaye remain dedicated to ongoing fundraising efforts to support research towards finding a cure for Parkinson's disease. In late 2022, the Neuro Research Charitable Trust made the strategic decision to hire a full-time CEO to drive fundraising and research initiatives, leading to the rebranding of the organization as Cure Parkinson's NZ. Daniel McGowan assumed the role of CEO, bringing with him the expertise and vision needed to propel the charity's future work and fundraising efforts. Parkinson's disease is the fastest-growing neurological condition globally, and its prevalence is projected to double in the next 10-15 years. While current treatments provide symptom relief, a cure remains elusive. However, promising drug candidates and advancements in early diagnosis offer hope. Thorough research is crucial to ensure that the right treatments are administered at the right time to improve patient outcomes. Daniel and the organisation he leads are dedicated to shaping and fuelling research leading to disease-modifying treatments; namely, treatments that can slow, stop, or perhaps even reverse the progression of Parkinson's.

Welcome to Purposely Short, a weekly episode, featuring one of our friends or past guests and their expertise on a certain topic. This weeks episode features Philippa Charles on what a charity needs to succeed as well the value she puts on fundraisers. Since its inception in 1958, the Garfield Weston Foundation has donated close to a billion pounds to good causes in the UK, granting between seventy and hundred million pounds annually. Despite the size and importance of the foundation's financial resources, Philippa Charles, its leader, is known for her accessibility, humility, and empathy. She is renowned for being a straight talker and has a desire to keep things simple. The foundation was set up by the Weston Family to benefit from the proceeds of their successful businesses, which include well-known brands in the food industry. These brands range from high-end retail, such as Fortnum and Mason, to household staples like Tip Top Ice Cream in New Zealand.

Around 150 kids under 13 get diagnosed with cancer each year in New Zealand. The good news is that more kids are surviving, with an 85% success rate after five years. Monica's charity, Child Cancer Foundation, steps in where the medical journey gets tough, acknowledging the challenges during treatment and the heartbreak of families who lose a child to cancer. Their mission is clear – supporting these families through the full journey and to improve the cancer care that future families experience. Monica, is driven to make a positive impact, she is happy to lead the way and she knows firsthand what these families are going through. The Foundation is all about pushing for better outcomes, ensuring fewer parents have to face the devastating loss of a child. They work closely with New Zealand's top-notch paediatric oncology professionals who tailor treatment plans for the unique cancers that affect kids. Monica points to the success had by New Zealand's paediatric oncologists and clinical teams who are involved in international clinical trials, bringing in treatments all without breaking the bank. Child Cancer Foundation works across the two treatment centres and all the shared care and regional centres nationwide alongside NGOs and puts Tamariki and families at the heart of all their activity. Their team of Family Support Coordinators meet families where they are at, ensuring tailored support is delivered from hospital to home. Monica and the Foundation understand that no two families face this journey the same way. They're not just focusing on the sick child; they're there for the whole family. Whether it's emotional, practical, or financial support, they've got it covered. The goal is simple: let families focus on what truly matters – loving and caring for their child. Child Cancer Foundation has a vision – to step up the game in child cancer care while being a support for every child and family on their cancer journey. Their to-do list includes supporting kids with cancer, helping families who've lost a child, boosting the skills of healthcare pros in pediatric oncology, delving into research, and advocating for better support for kids with cancer. Monica Briggs joins Purposely to talk about her current role and charity leadership more generally. She also talks about her own cancer diagnosis and how this has helped her with her current role. Monica has been a force for good in the for-purpose sector for almost three decades in both New Zealand and the UK. In her spare time, she sits on the board at the Grief Centre.

Welcome to "SHORT," a weekly episode designed for brevity. These concise episodes aim to distill important content and offer listeners a focused opportunity to delve into specific topics. Each week, we feature inspirational nonprofit leaders and social entrepreneurs, both familiar faces from previous episodes of Purposely and newcomers to the podcast. Episodes typically range from five to 15 minutes in length, released every Thursday. This week's SHORT episode features Jennifer Belmont, CEO of the Wakatipu Community Foundation and founding trustee for Youth Philanthropy New Zealand and Generation Give. Jennifer shares insights into her successful journey in building the foundation, highlighting the incredible generosity within her community. Since its inception in 2017, the Wakatipu Community Foundation has experienced rapid growth, leveraging its work with young people in philanthropy and the power of Giving Circles. This growth in funding has enabled the foundation to make a positive impact on the lives of individuals locally, contributing to community growth and development. In addition to discussing the foundation's achievements, Jennifer explores the broader landscape of philanthropy, noting the increasing acceptance of the term "kiwis" and the adoption of various global methods. Jennifer's extensive involvement in nonprofits spans across different regions, including the establishment of various organizations such as a California local school foundation, tennis association, and a Utah community foundation.

Introducing Sarah Manley, CEO of the Sir John Kirwan Foundation, who joins Purposely to share her organisation's mission. Sarah is a confident and motivated leader who is passionate about the potential of young people. Born in Chile, Sarah was adopted by her antipodean parents and grew up in the outback of Australia before moving to New Zealand at age 11 where she now resides with her son Lachie and partner Andrew. Although Sarah is relatively new to her role, having spent months rather than years in the hot seat, she brings a wealth of experience as the former Deputy CEO of Hato Hone St. John. After a decade at the same organisation, she now leads a small but high-profile mental health charity founded by her famous Chairman, Sir John Kirwan (JK). For Sarah, this is an exciting move and a unique challenge. Previously, she held a key leadership position in one of New Zealand's largest health organisations, where her team focused on motivating and organising a large volunteer army with significant financial and human resources. Today, she leads a small organisation with relatively limited resources, reporting directly to the invested and motivated founder, JK. Their mission is to educate children about mental health. If you're middle-aged and a rugby enthusiast, you're likely familiar with John Kirwan, an All Black and one of the sport's greatest wingers. He is renowned for scoring one of the best tries in the history of the game, single-handedly defeating the Italian rugby team at the 1987 World Cup. However, if you're from New Zealand, you may know John Kirwan for something entirely different – his advocacy for mental health. Contrary to many sportsmen of his era, John Kirwan openly discusses his own battles with depression, referring to it as the "black dog." His willingness to share his experiences has not only helped him personally but has also played a significant role in normalising conversations around mental health, particularly for men. Growing up in a culture where men were expected to be strong and silent, John's openness has undoubtedly saved lives and lifted the stigma surrounding mental health issues. After retiring from international rugby, JK became the spokesperson for the New Zealand government's mental health awareness campaign, bringing mental health into the public arena. His contributions to both rugby and mental health earned him a knighthood. Since then, JK has continued to lead public awareness campaigns and has written books on his experiences with depression. Sir John Kirwan, or JK as he is affectionately known, is now a globally recognised mental health advocate, author, entrepreneur, and rugby legend. He co-founded Groov, a leading workplace wellbeing platform with a mission to improve the daily wellbeing of 100 million people. In 2012, JK was knighted for his services to mental health, an honour he strives to live up to every day. Through their school's program called Mitey, the Sir John Kirwan Foundation has developed an evidence-based approach to teaching mental health education to children in New Zealand. Recognising the alarming number of children experiencing mental health issues, the foundation aims to equip future generations with the skills and knowledge to navigate the pressures of life. By embedding mental health education in teaching and learning through primary and intermediate schools, the foundation believes it can make a significant impact on New Zealand's mental health statistics. Their goal is to provide schools with the necessary resources and support to nurture the mental wellbeing of both students and teachers.