People Inspired By Purpose - Purposely Podcast

Leading a Sector to Deliver Positive Impact: Gemma Bull and Tom Steinberg, Founders of Modern Grantmaking. In the pursuit of fostering positive change and meaningful impact within the grant-making sector, Gemma Bull and Tom Steinberg have united to form Modern Grantmaking. They both joined Purposely to share their journey as well as their mission to empower individuals within the sector to transform the grant making sector and deliver greater impact. Gemma and Tom's familiarity with the charitable sector and grant making is deeply ingrained. They met when they both held senior positions at the UK National Lottery Fund, following their prior experiences in senior leadership and governance roles within the sector. The culmination of their shared insights, coupled with their expertise in philanthropy and social change, has propelled them to establish their own education and consultancy venture. This endeavor is complemented by the publication of their book, "Modern Grantmaking – A Guide for Funders Who Believe Better Is Possible." United by a shared vision, Gemma and Tom aimed to confront the inefficiencies and constraints pervasive in the traditional grant-making landscape. Forthright, they portray the grant-making domain as an arena populated by "dedicated employees trapped within a creaking system and outdated conventions." They spotlight the lack of professional advancement, alongside a paucity of innovation and outdated methodologies stifling the sector's capacity to engender positive impact. Beyond serving as a practical guide for enhancing grant-making practices, their book delves into the significance of values. These values, they contend, are pivotal in reshaping how funders catalyse positive change and address social and environmental challenges. Conceived during the throes of the pandemic, the book aims to disrupt entrenched norms while simultaneously empowering both grant makers and grantees. Their mission revolves around amplifying transparency and optimising the impact of each dollar disbursed. Their efforts facilitate astute decision-making, empowering grant makers to allocate resources judiciously and enabling grantees to channel their energies into their missions, unburdened by administrative encumbrances. Driven by a resolute desire to empower change agents, "Modern Grantmaking" stands as a call for transformation within the philanthropic sector. It assumes the role of a comprehensive guide, fostering contemplation across diverse facets of a grant maker's role – from strategising and cultivating relationships with grantees, colleagues, and boards, to honing research, management, and self-development skills.

Every year in New Zealand, around 5,000 children are born prematurely. Some of these babies come into the world as early as 23 weeks into pregnancy and weigh as little as 500 grams. These tiny new-borns face a tough battle for survival and often need to spend a long time in neonatal intensive care units. While doctors and hospitals take care of their medical needs, there's often a missing piece: the comprehensive support that parents and families require to navigate the many challenges that come with premature birth. Stepping in to fill this important gap is the Little Miracles Trust. This organisation offers crucial assistance to families dealing with the intricate practical and emotional aspects of premature births. While medical professionals focus on the babies' health, Little Miracles Trust provides the essential help that parents and families need to handle the unique challenges that premature birth brings. Meet Rachel Friend, the CEO of the Little Miracles Trust, who joins Purposely to talk about her organisation's story and her own experience as a mother of a prematurely born child. Rachel's journey has been quite remarkable. She used to work in the corporate world, but her path took a new direction when she became a mother. This personal experience motivated her to transition from her corporate career to leading a charity. Rachel's shift in focus was driven by her own real-life challenges. She had to navigate the complexities of caring for her son, Rueben, who was born prematurely. This experience gave her a deep understanding of the difficulties and emotions that parents of premature babies go through. This understanding and empathy are crucial in her role, where she ensures that her organisation provides the right services to support others in similar situations. A central part of their mission is to guide parents through the often-challenging journey of premature birth while offering comprehensive support in various forms. Many members of the Little Miracles Trust team, like Rachel, have first-hand experience with this journey, which gives them a deep understanding of both the practical and emotional challenges involved. Their primary focus is on supporting parents whose infants require neonatal intensive care within specialised units in New Zealand. The main objective is to ease the burden and lessen the traumatic impacts on these families. The scope of assistance they provide is wide-ranging, encompassing the sharing of information, as well as practical, financial, and emotional aid. In addition to their direct support for families, the Trust also contributes to the advancement of neonatal-related medical research. This commitment lays the groundwork for innovations that have the potential to positively impact the lives of both prematurely born infants and their families. Rachel's journey goes beyond just overcoming challenges; it stands as a testament to resilience and compassion. Her transformation from a mother grappling with the uncertainties of premature birth to her role as CEO of the Little Miracles Trust highlights the remarkable ability to turn adversity into a catalyst for positive change. Rachel's unwavering dedication to her mission has sparked a ripple effect of increased awareness and support, inspiring numerous families to find hope even in the face of adversity. As the Little Miracles Trust looks toward the future, their determination to expand their influence remains steadfast. Rachel's leadership has played a crucial role in guiding the organisation's growth; however, she is due to stand down from the CEO role at the end of the year (2023) and transitioning to a trustee role on the board. Rachel will continue to play a role in the Trust's strategic direction, while a new CEO takes the helm to oversee daily operations and guide their future services.

The team at Purposely is delighted to present an episode of the UK-based Charity Impact Podcast featuring the remarkable serial social entrepreneur, Ruth Ibegbuna. In this interview, host Alex Blake takes us on a journey through Ruth Ibegbuna's inspiring life, where she has founded multiple organisations including Reclaim Project, Roots Programme, Rekindle School, and Northern Soul. Ruth shares her transition from being a teacher to becoming a dedicated social entrepreneur, emphasising the vital role of listening to communities and addressing their unique needs. Through her experiences, she highlights the significance of balancing grassroots care with thought leadership, resulting in a positive and lasting impact in the realm of social change. Fundraising and board meetings can indeed be daunting challenges for any social entrepreneur, but in this conversation, Alex and Ruth delve into invaluable insights on building strong relationships with funders and assembling the right individuals for your organisation's board. They touch upon key strategies that have brought remarkable successes to Ruth's ventures, which have in turn led to significant changes in the communities they serve. Ruth shares the transformative power of embracing difficult conversations when necessary and adopting a genuine and authentic approach in professional settings. Moreover, the discussion takes a closer look at the importance of taking risks and fostering a culture of learning within the realm of social entrepreneurship. Ruth sheds light on Rekindle School, a groundbreaking initiative operating alongside the regular school curriculum, providing young people with a safe space to explore critical topics such as feminism, toxic masculinity, and race. Throughout the conversation, Alex and Ruth also highlight the significance of finding useful resources for social entrepreneurs and the undeniable power of taking action by connecting with organisations that are making a positive impact. If you're looking for inspiration to elevate your own organisation's impact, don't miss out on this enlightening conversation with Ruth Ibegbuna. Join Alex Blake and get ready to be inspired by Ruth's extraordinary journey and her unwavering dedication to making the world a better place.

In the ever-evolving world of payments processing, characterised by constant innovation and technological advancements, there emerges a standout startup with a unique approach and a charitable mission. Give Credit, a US-based payments processing company that not only delivers payment solutions but also generates vital funds for non-profit organisations. Co-founder and CEO Duncan Morley Bruce joined Purposely Podcast to share his company’s mission as well as his personal story. Duncan is a driven and charismatic person who is determined to reshape the role of business, with more of a focus on making a positive impact on bringing about positive social change. Before diving into the area of entrepreneurship and payments processing, Duncan Morley Bruce's life was centred around his passion for music and performing. From a young age, he was drawn to the art of singing, song writing, and creativity. As a child, Duncan's love for music was evident, and he began writing songs as early as the age of 10. Duncan's foray into the music industry was successful and he achieved notable accolades, including becoming a three-time Billboard charting artist, with his song "Find You Now" featuring Rick Ross reaching the top 10 on the Billboard charts. Additionally, Duncan had the privilege of collaborating with renowned artists like DJ Paul Oakenfold and DJ Scribble. While Duncan's was having some success with his music career, he never lost sight of his desire to make a difference in the world. One of his most significant achievements in music was a song called "Give Me a Sign," where he aimed to raise awareness about homelessness and poverty. Duncan allocated a portion of the record's proceeds to the charity "Why Poverty," showcasing his passion for philanthropy even within the realm of music. However, as time passed and the music industry became more and more challenging and unforgiving, Duncan felt a calling to do more than inspire through music. He wanted to leverage his creative background and entrepreneurial mindset to create a lasting impact beyond the realm of entertainment. With a family to care for and a desire to make a tangible difference, Duncan eventually made the decision to transition from the music industry to a more purpose-driven path. The idea behind Give Credit came to fruition with Duncan's realisation that the payments industry held tremendous untapped potential for driving positive change. Along with his co-founder, Robert Nekoroski set out to create a payment processing company that went beyond simply facilitating transactions. Give Credit is designed to make a lasting impact by channelling a percentage of every transaction towards supporting charitable causes and social initiatives. Duncan believes that Give Credit's innovative approach to payments processing, combined with its commitment to social responsibility, will transform everyday transactions into a means of generating funds for worthy causes.

In the realm of social enterprises, there are visionary leaders driven by a deep desire to make a positive impact on society based on their own life experiences. Sasha Lockley, the founder and CEO of Money Sweetspot, is one such remarkable individual. Based in New Zealand, Money Sweetspot is a trailblazing social enterprise that aims to empower individuals and communities to achieve financial wellness. Sasha's journey as a social entrepreneur was inspired by her early years and her own family story, which connected her to the struggles faced by her customers at Money Sweetspot. Her father, who owned a bus company in Stafford, England, faced challenging times when Sasha's grandfather unexpectedly passed away. To help run the family dairy farm, Sasha's father had to put his own business on hold, leading to significant financial struggles that eventually resulted in bankruptcy. Sasha emphasises that such incidents can happen to anyone, and her father was not at fault; rather, he was a good person who encountered unfortunate circumstances. Originally from the UK, Sasha immigrated to New Zealand, initially intending for it to be a temporary move. However, while working in finance roles there, she witnessed first-hand the financial challenges that individuals and families face. This experience ignited her determination to create a solution that would bridge the gap and empower people to achieve financial freedom. The idea for Money Sweetspot took shape when Sasha realised that traditional financial services often failed to meet the needs of underserved and vulnerable populations. Recognising the potential of technology and innovative approaches, she set out to create a platform that would revolutionise the way people managed their money and coped with debt. At the core of Money Sweetspot's mission lies the belief that financial wellness should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or income level. The platform offers personalized financial guidance, budgeting tools, and resources, empowering users to set achievable financial goals and work towards them with confidence. Sasha's journey as a social entrepreneur was not without challenges. Building a social enterprise from scratch requires resilience and determination. However, Sasha's unwavering commitment to her vision and the positive impact Money Sweetspot could have on people's lives kept her motivated. Today, Money Sweetspot is making a significant impact in New Zealand and beyond. Within months of its official launch, this innovative debt consolidation social enterprise has already provided nearly $3 million in loans to New Zealanders grappling with unmanageable debt. The platform has helped countless individuals gain control over their finances, reduce debt, and build a more secure financial future. Beyond providing financial tools and resources, Money Sweetspot actively collaborates with community organisations and educational institutions to promote financial literacy. Through workshops, seminars, and partnerships, the social enterprise is on a mission to create a financially empowered society that can navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience. As Money Sweetspot continues to grow and touch the lives of more people, Sasha's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring social entrepreneurs to follow their vision and turn their dreams into reality. Through her remarkable journey, Sasha Lockley exemplifies the profound impact one individual can make in shaping a better tomorrow for all.  

In the world of philanthropy and social impact, there are pioneers who go above and beyond to make a difference. One such visionary is Mary Rose Gunn, the founder and CEO of The Fore. With a unique approach to funding and empowering small charities and social enterprises, Mary Rose has dedicated her career to driving positive change. In this blog post, we explore Mary Rose's remarkable journey, the impact of The Fore, and her unwavering commitment to creating a better future. Unleashing Potential: Founded in 2017, The Fore is a trailblazing charity that stands out for its innovative approach. Mary Rose Gunn saw the need for a different kind of funding model – one that goes beyond traditional grants. Drawing inspiration from venture capital practices, The Fore provides early-stage seed capital to social entrepreneurs who are tackling pressing societal and environmental issues. By identifying and supporting promising ventures, The Fore helps these organisations unleash their full potential and create significant social impact. A Comprehensive Package of Support: The Fore doesn't just offer financial assistance; it provides a comprehensive package of support. Through tailored business support and access to a network of mentors, The Fore empowers organisations to overcome challenges and thrive in their respective fields. Mary Rose Gunn understands the power of collaboration and the value of a strong support system. She speaks highly of her team and acknowledges the expertise and experience of her Board of Trustees, recognising that their collective effort has been instrumental in The Fore's success. A Catalyst for Transformative Social Change: Under Mary Rose Gunn's leadership, The Fore UK has already made a profound impact on numerous organisations. By scalingoperations, enhancing capabilities, and making a tangible difference in the communities they serve, these organisations have become agents of transformative social change. The Fore UK fosters a culture of collaboration and learning, serving as a catalyst for positive and lasting impact. Mary Rose Gunn's passion for philanthropy and social change is infectious. She actively engages with individuals from various sectors, including business, charity, and the public sector. Drawing inspiration from their diverse experiences, Mary Rose embraces the power of different perspectives and recognizes the contributions of individuals working across different industries. This collaborative mindset has been instrumental in The Fore's success and positive impact. A Vision for the Future: Mary Rose's vision for The Fore extends far beyond the present. She envisions a future where The Fore supports 1000 more exceptional small charities and social enterprises. By "moving the needle," she believes that together, they can create a significant and lasting positive change. Mary Rose emphasizes the importance of changing the narrative about problem-solving, investing in communities, and embracing local solutions. She envisions a society where individuals have agency and the power to effect change from the grassroots level. Inspiring a Shared Vision: Through her remarkable journey, Mary Rose Gunn continues to inspire individuals and organisations to embrace innovation, collaboration, and a shared vision for a better future. Mary Rose Gunn's journey with The Fore is a testament to the power of disruptive thinking and collaborative action. Through her visionary approach, she has empowered small charities and social enterprises to reach their full potential and make a meaningful difference in society.

Introducing Kirk Sargent, the CEO of First Foundation, a New Zealand-based charity committed to empowering talented disadvantaged young people to reach their full potential, and lead positive and fulfilling lives. First Foundation achieves this through a comprehensive approach that includes providing financial assistance, paid work experience, and dedicated mentorship to bright young Kiwis who face challenges in accessing higher education. Originally from Taranaki, a region in the west of New Zealand's North Island, Kirk now resides in Auckland, where the charity's headquarters are located. With a diverse career background spanning land, construction, and purpose-driven work, Kirk brings a wealth of experience to his role. Having worked in various countries including Fiji, Hawaii, Australia, the UK, and New Zealand, Kirk has witnessed first-hand the transformative power of entrepreneurial and innovative approaches in addressing social and environmental issues. These experiences have fostered in him a deep sense of empathy for different cultures and a resolute determination to contribute to a better world. First Foundation was established in 1998 by respected business leader Steven Carden, who recently re-joined the board of trustees to utilise his skills and experience in ensuring the charity's continued success and the well-being of the young people it supports. Kirk acknowledges the numerous challenges faced by non-profit leaders, particularly the limited access to resources and funding. However, he expresses gratitude for the dedicated group of donors and corporate supporters who share the organisation's vision and contribute to First Foundation's important work. Kirk also highlights the challenging economic and social realities that underscore the value of First Foundation's efforts, especially considering the burden of student loans on individuals from low-income families. By providing financial assistance and removing barriers, First Foundation goes beyond covering university costs. Their support offers students and their families a sense of opportunity and acts as a powerful incentive for pursuing higher education. Kirk talks about their goal to create a positive ripple effect that extends through generations. First Foundation scholars, often the first in their family to attend university, testify to the life-changing impact of the support provided by the charity's partners. Additionally, many scholars utilise their improved financial situations to support their parents, siblings, and wider family, further amplifying the far-reaching effects of contributions.

Introducing Jamie Masraff, the dedicated CEO leading OnSide, a UK-based charity committed to empowering young people by providing them access to exceptional spaces and outstanding youth work. OnSide's primary goal is to support young individuals in leading positive and fulfilling lives, with a specific focus on those residing in areas facing significant challenges. Jamie's journey to charity leadership has been unconventional, transitioning from corporate consultant to local authority leadership before ultimately making the conscious decision to shift sectors. Supported by his partner, he even accepted a pay cut to pursue his true calling. Joining the charity in 2017, Jamie has climbed the ranks at OnSide, assuming the role of CEO at the beginning of 2023. In our conversation with Jamie, we explore the unique trajectory of his career and delve into the inspiring work he spearheads at OnSide. Jamie's initial role at OnSide focused on collaborating with business leaders, local councils, and community partners on to establish new Youth Zones across the country. His efforts bore fruit with the successful launch of OnSide's first three Youth Zones in London. OnSide's story began over 130 years ago with the establishment of Bolton Lads and Girls Club in 1889. As one of the pioneering organisations in the North West providing a safe space for children and young people, the Club has become a haven for over 3,000 young individuals every week, operating 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year. In 2006, the club approached serial entrepreneur Bill Holroyd to chair its board. Recognising its immense potential, Bill embarked on a visionary quest to replicate and expand the trailblazing Youth Centre model to other towns and cities across the country. This vision gave birth to the charity OnSide, with Bill leading the charge in developing Youth Zones nationwide. OnSide actively raises crucial funds to construct state-of-the-art Youth Zones in some of the UK's most disadvantaged areas. These Youth Zones serve as comprehensive youth centres, staffed by a dedicated team of professionals who wholeheartedly commit themselves to supporting young individuals. The overarching objective is to help young people unlock their full potential, develop essential life skills, build confidence, and nurture ambitious aspirations. Growing up in Edinburgh, Jamie's personal drive to create equal opportunities greatly influenced his educational pursuits, leading him to earn an MPhil in International Development from Oxford University. Early in his career, Jamie worked closely with local councils, actively involved in driving significant projects such as the construction of schools, libraries, and community facilities. Witnessing the profound and positive impact of Youth Zones on young people in local communities, Jamie became captivated by OnSide's mission. Jamie emphasises the practical side of OnSide's work, outlining their ambitious plans to develop youth zones in Bristol, Grimsby, London (White City), Crewe, Preston, Salford, Essex - Thurrock, and Barnsley within the next three years. These new youth zones will provide incredible dedicated spaces for young people in those areas. Thanks to the Youth Investment Fund, the UK government's flagship capital funding for new facilities, they have secured significant funding. However, Jamie acknowledges that there is still more to raise, particularly for the running costs of these youth zones. Their goal is to establish strong financial foundations by bringing together businesses and philanthropists in each local area to support their youth.   'We strongly believe that youth workers are incredible individuals and they play a vital role in equipping young people with the skills they need for future employment, instilling confidence, and resilience, and fostering aspirations for a better life.'  

Introducing James Lewis, a prolific social entrepreneur, and the visionary founder and CEO of Action for Elders, a UK-based charity dedicated to empowering and enhancing the lives of older people. Through their impactful in-person programs, Action for Elders encourages physical activity, fosters social connections, and combats isolation and loneliness. James's career has been a fascinating blend of entertainment and philanthropy. As a former music broadcaster, he delighted audiences with his syndicated music show, reaching listeners across the Atlantic. Alongside his entertaining endeavours, James has been a catalyst for positive change, establishing and scaling various social enterprises and charities in both the UK and the United States, benefiting people of all ages. However, James's journey as a charity founder began with the establishment of a poignant organisation named in honour of his late son, Christian, who tragically lost his life to neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer, at the age of 5. This charity aimed to improve the lives of children diagnosed with cancer, primarily by providing funding for specialist nurses who could offer vital support and care both in hospitals and at home. While the charity continues to exist today under the name "The Kids Cancer Charity," James has shifted his focus and dedication entirely to the growth and expansion of Action for Elders. Action for Elders strives to make a transformative difference in the lives of older individuals, aiming to support as many as possible. By promoting exercise, fostering social connections, and addressing the challenges of isolation and loneliness, the charity empowers older individuals to embrace a fulfilling and vibrant life. Under James's determined leadership, Action for Elders has become a beacon of hope for isolated elders, providing essential programs and support. In addition to his charitable work, James maintains a prominent presence in the world of music. As a syndicated radio show host, he currently presents "A Soulful Experience with JL," a weekly show featured on over 30 stations worldwide. Through intimate and conversational interviews with renowned artists such as Gregory Porter, Jamie Cullum, Michael Bublé, and Jamie Foxx, James creates a uniquely engaging experience for his audience. Recognized for his remarkable achievements, James is a serial social entrepreneur. In 2002, he received the National 'Leading the Way' award in the UK, sponsored by the CBI, for his business endeavours focused on employing individuals considered challenging to employ. He also holds numerous board positions, including Vice Chair of Foothold Cymru, where he chairs the Finance and General Purposes Committee. James Lewis's contributions to society have been substantial, including his founding of The Kids Cancer Charity and his current leadership of Action for Elders. His dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others is an inspiration to many.

Introducing Rupert Abbott, Executive Director of GiveOut, a UK-based community foundation dedicated to supporting people's human rights, people whose rights have been denied because of their sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Rupert is a passionate advocate for the human rights movement, having started his career as a trainee solicitor and now leading the way for individuals who seek to make a positive impact on people's lives. Rupert shares his personal journey as a gay man and his extensive career, which has taken him across the globe, with a notable focus on Cambodia and his latest role as a philanthropy leader. Established in 2018 by founder and current Chair Elliot Vaughn MBE, GiveOut is committed to global human rights activism. They actively search for initiatives and opportunities, conduct due diligence, and pool funds from generous donors to support these efforts. GiveOut has successfully funded almost 40 organisations worldwide. Their impactful work was recognised early on when they received a new charity breakout award, acknowledging their unique and innovative approach to cause-focused philanthropy. GiveOut's mission is to foster the growth of support for LGBTQI human rights globally. Unfortunately, in many countries, LGBTQI individuals face severe human rights abuses simply for being themselves. Rupert discusses a recent example, the alarming situation in Uganda, where a new law has been passed, imposing harsh jail terms and even the death penalty for same-sex relations. However, he emphasises that there are remarkable organisations in nearly every country tirelessly working to defend LGBTQI individuals, address inequalities, and advocate for lasting change. He highlights the fact that these organisations often suffer from severe underfunding, receiving only a minuscule fraction of international development aid—just four cents for every $100 provided by governments. Rupert further points out that, concurrently, the religious right invests substantial resources into organisations and movements that oppose equality and human rights. GiveOut's role is to channel more resources into the LGBTQI movement through collaboration with individuals, allies, and corporations, making it easier for them to support LGBTQI rights activism worldwide. Rupert brings over 15 years of experience in human rights and developing not-for-profit organisations. He co-founded RightsStart, a hub for human rights experts, and has held senior positions with organisations such as the Human Rights House Foundation, Amnesty International, the United Nations Assistance to the Khmer Rouge Trials, and the Cambodian Centre for Human Rights. Rupert also serves as an Advisor to the Future Forum think tank in Southeast Asia and on the Supervisory Board of Climate Counsel, an organisation dedicated to pursuing environmental and climate justice through international criminal law. Additionally, Rupert is a trustee of the Association of Charitable Foundations and a Venture Board member of Ashoka.