The Women In Philanthropy: Epic Social Impact Now
The celebration of India Giving Day provides an opportunity to research and discuss good philanthropic methods that benefit men, a new generation of female contributors, and society as a whole. Women’s traditional roles as carers and connectors have given them stronger empathy and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, their historically underserved positions in society have enabled them to comprehend and relate to the difficulties faced by nonprofit organisations, which are sometimes unappreciated and underfunded.
Researching renowned female philanthropists can provide significant insights on the skills they bring to the sector. The India Philanthropy Alliance presented a webinar with Indra Nooyi, former CEO of PepsiCo, and Andrea Jung, CEO of Grameen America, who discussed the importance of investing in women and women’s causes. These role models emphasise that philanthropy is more than just giving money; they promote a more comprehensive approach to societal problem solving that includes volunteering, governing, listening, and lobbying.
In recent years, the idea of trust-based philanthropy has gained popularity. This concept reduces obligations on NGOs while eliminating restrictions on funding utilisation by offering resources upfront. Nonprofits are viewed as valuable partners and recipients of flexible support, rather than dubious intermediaries that must be closely monitored. Scott’s strategy has assisted organisations in transitioning from a defensive posture focused on survival to an aggressive stance in which they devise innovative plans to address societal issues. Scott’s generosity, trust, pragmatism, and commitment to collaboration provided a good example for contributors, in contrast to the more transactional attitude common among men. Women, on the other hand, tend to take a long-term, relationship-oriented approach to philanthropy, emphasising the transformational goals of organisations over transactional considerations.
Women thrive in taking a comprehensive approach to societal issues, actively listening to impacted people and front-line workers, establishing agreement, and recognising the value of nonprofit collaboration. They are less inclined to ask what NGOs can do for them, preferring to focus on how they can best help those organisations achieve their noble aims. Women philanthropists embrace the India Philanthropy Alliance’s principles of effective giving by cultivating long-term relationships and focusing on transformational aims. A more cooperative and effective charitable landscape is the result of men and teenagers adopting these strategies more frequently.
Three well-known benefactors are featured to demonstrate women’s philanthropic ability. Anita Balaji, who works with the Foundation for Excellence (FFE), has seen the transforming impact of scholarships on low-income students seeking professional degrees. Monica Sheth, an Akanksha Education Fund donor, approaches charity with compassion and a solution-oriented perspective, which aligns with her conviction that education is a means out of poverty. Darshana Shanbhag, a brilliant physician and Pratham supporter, exemplifies a deep grasp of education’s transforming power, seeking to make a real difference and influence a brighter future.
In light of India Giving Day and the influence it would have on professionally run mission-driven organisations, it is worth considering women’s contributions to philanthropy. Taking a few minutes to seek advice from influential women in our lives, even if we lack the means of notable philanthropists, can increase the impact, joy, and significance of our donations.
Finally, as we commemorate India Giving Day and encourage successful philanthropic practices, it is critical to highlight women’s unique strengths and contributions to creating social change. We can create a more inclusive and impactful society for all by analysing their capabilities, supporting women’s issues, and adopting trust-based and relationship-oriented philanthropic initiatives.
