Our Philanthropic Interviews
We regularly speak with some of the most influential voices in philanthropy and the wider world of social change and impact, people who are reshaping how and why the world gives. Through these important conversations, we share their insights, experience and bold ideas which are driving the next generation of philanthropy. Join us and explore the future of giving.
Opportunity for All in an AI World - Maja Vukicevic speaking at Talking Philanthropy London 2026
In this video from Talking Philanthropy London 2026, the University of London’s Maja Vukicevic talks about investing in education and AI together, so technological change brings opportunity and inclusion to everyone, and on making giving part of everyday life.
Artificial intelligence will reshape every career in the room. The open question is who gets carried forward and who is left behind. Maja, who is Deputy Director of Philanthropy at the University of London, makes the case that this is precisely where philanthropy should place its boldest bet: sustained investment in education and AI together, so institutions can equip the next generation with the creativity and adaptability the new world of work demands.
AI, she argues, becomes a force for good only when philanthropists and governments act to widen access rather than narrow it. And she presses for a culture where giving is normal at every level, not the preserve of a wealthy few.
Watch Maja set out how philanthropy can make technological change a story of opportunity for all.
The Long View
Jay Longworth speaking at Talking Philanthropy London 2026
In this video from Talking Philanthropy London 2026, Barts Charity’s Jay Longworth talks about philanthropy that thinks in decades, embedding impact and values across generations of family wealth, and the role of giving in transforming health in East London.
Most giving chases the next headline. The change that lasts takes decades, and it needs people willing to think that far ahead. Jay, who is Director of Fundraising and Communications at Barts Charity, makes the case for philanthropy with patience. In East London, where healthy life expectancy is among the lowest in the country, she sees giving stepping in where governments are slow, and she points to the £900m Barts Life Sciences investment as a chance for philanthropy to shape an ecosystem from the start.
Drawing on her University of Cambridge research into how families invest for impact, she argues that the ones who succeed build clear governance and a shared charter, carrying values from one generation to the next.
Watch Jay show how philanthropy can plan in decades, not news cycles.
Better to Die Trying - Lady Edwina Grosvenor speaking at Talking Philanthropy London 2026
In this video from Talking Philanthropy London 2026, Lady Edwina Grosvenor talks about turning inherited wealth into systemic change, and how Hope Street, her replicable alternative to prison for women and their children, proves what focused philanthropy can build.
She was told you cannot change the prison system. So Lady Edwina Grosvenor set out to build a better one alongside it. Born into great wealth, she treats it as a responsibility that, wrongly used, becomes a weapon of mass destruction, and she watched too many foundations spread themselves thin without ever moving the dial.
Her answer was to focus relentlessly on a single broken system and redesign it. Hope Street is the result: a replicable, scalable alternative to prison for women and their children, roughly 80% funded by philanthropy, built to prove what works in a world that keeps paying for what does not.
It is one of the clearest case studies of philanthropy driving systemic change you will see. Watch how she turned conviction into a model the world can copy.
Without Relationships, Nothing Works
Achim Wennmann speaking at Talking Philanthropy London 2026
What should philanthropy actually pay for??
Achim Wennmann of the Geneva Graduate Institute offers an answer that cuts against the grain.
In this short film, he argues that the sector’s fixation on impact is quietly undermining the very change it seeks. The problems that matter most, from climate to migration, do not move through transactions. They move through relationships that last: through trust, the patience to truly know one another, and the courage to reach across institutional and sectoral lines long before a crisis forces it.
His challenge is direct. A field that shies away from risk-taking will never fund what counts.
Watch Achim make the case for a braver, more patient philanthropy.
Martin Griffiths speaking at Talking Philanthropy London 2026
Aid cuts aren’t numbers on a spreadsheet. They are lives.
At Talking Philanthropy London in May 2026, Martin Griffiths, Former Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator of the United Nations, spoke with great clarity about the human cost of withdrawing international aid. Reports suggest that millions more people could die by the end of the decade as funding falls away. But his message was not only about loss. It was about responsibility.
He recalled Djibo in Burkina Faso, where mothers fed displaced neighbours by gathering leaves from trees. When the trees were stripped bare, they crossed battle lines at night to find more, often while their own children went hungry.
That is generosity in its rawest form.
Martin challenged those in the room to think again about the relationship between the givers and the given. If official agencies slip, philanthropy has a magnificent role to play. As he said, now is the time for leadership, courage and practical generosity.
The Philanthropic Wealth TransferEpisode 4: Passing The Torch
How do families keep their values alive while everything around them changes?
In this fourth episode of our The Philanthropic Wealth Transfer series, remarkable philanthropists and philanthropic leaders pull back the curtain on what legacy really means, and it’s far more than a will or a foundation deed.
They talk about the quiet work: conversations at the family table, councils that keep everyone aligned, the courage to ask awkward questions, and the belief that giving with intention matters more than scale.
It’s a candid, thoughtful and very human look at how generosity is shaped across generations.
The Philanthropic Wealth Transfer - Episode 3: Quiet Power, Big Shifts
What if the biggest shift in global philanthropy isn’t loud at all but quiet, steady, and led by women?
The third episode of The Philanthropic Wealth Transfer series explores how placing women at the centre of wealth conversations is reshaping agency, influence, and ultimately who and what gets funded. Paula Murphy Ives, MD of Social Capital & Impact, Enterprise Strategic Climate Group, @RBC speaks to the power of helping women step into rooms where decisions are made and claim the authority they’ve always had. Lady Edwina Grosvenor shares how expertise and philanthropy can redesign entire systems, as she has done with Hope Street, a community-based alternative for women in the UK’s justice system. And Divia Harilela reminds us that storytelling is strategy and that fresh eyes, new voices, and heart-led leadership are driving philanthropy forward. This is quiet power with massive consequences.
The Philanthropic Wealth TransferEpisode 2: The Inheritance of Ideas
How does philanthropy shape family legacy long after the enterprise has gone?
In this punchy, thought-provoking episode, philanthropic leader and next-generation voices explore why names like Rockefeller and Carnegie endure in our collective memory – not for the industries that made them wealthy but for the impact of their giving.
Today, families are redefining legacy through innovation, collaboration, and values passed down through action. From parenting that shapes purpose to AI-powered decision-making, they reveal how society’s evolving needs are reshaping what truly endures.
In this short film, discover how the next generation is using philanthropy to express identity, create lasting change, and be remembered for what they transformed, not what they owned.
The Philanthropic Wealth TransferEpisode 1: From Dynasty to Design
Passing On More Than Wealth
How do you pass on not just wealth, but wisdom, values and a sense of purpose?
In this short film called From Dynasty to Design, leading philanthropic voices share candid reflections on family unity, identity and the responsibility that comes with inherited influence.
From creating shared experiences to nurturing curiosity and compassion, this conversation explores how each generation can shape its own version of impact.
Take a few minutes to watch this short film and hear the voices shaping the next chapter of global giving.
Interview with Rahima Aziz BEM, Trustee, Aziz Foundation
As a next-gen leader of the Aziz Foundation, in this Global20 interview, Rahima Aziz BEM opens up about how the charity, established by her father, has grown into a powerhouse of postgraduate support for British Muslim students. With over 670 scholarships awarded so far, the Foundation now offers internships, strategic university partnerships, and wraparound student support. For Rahima, it’s the relationships, not just the funding, that are helping young people succeed.
She and Ben Morton Wright speak candidly about the pressures facing her generation, from mental health to climate anxiety, and why philanthropy must evolve to meet these challenges. Rahima shares honest reflections about being both inspired by (and slightly intimidated by) the power and potential of her peers.
What happens when global aid pulls back and philanthropy steps up?
In this timely interview, our Group Founder and CEO, Ben Morton Wright, and broadcaster, Kirsty Lang, dive into a high-stakes conversation about the future of philanthropy in a world facing uncertainty.
From the ripple effects of USAID cuts to the Gates Foundation’s $10 billion commitment, this is a fascinating look at how donors are reacting – and reimagining- their role.
Interview with Guest Speakers about Philanthropy and Digitalisation
In this #Global20 interview, which was recorded at an in-person event at Boodle Hatfield’s London offices in May 2024, we dive into the potential of digitalisation to amplify philanthropic efforts.
Compere Ben Morton Wright, CEO and Founder of Global Philanthropic, explains how storytelling has always been in the organisation’s DNA and our eminent guest speakers, Lady Edwina Grosvenor, Clare Stirzaker (Boodle Hatfield), Emily Thomas (ClientEarth), Srishti Bakshi (Global Philanthropic), Nick Taylor (Altrata) and Geoff Holt MBE (Wetwheels Foundation) share their journeys in philanthropy and leveraging technology for social change.
The speakers emphasise the importance of storytelling, network mapping, and tailoring content to specific channels to maximise impact. They share personal stories of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity, highlighting the importance of pursuing one’s passions and overcoming obstacles to achieve goals.
Srishti Bakshi
On International Women’s Day 2024, this Global 20 interview offers a timely reflection on the ongoing struggle for gender equality and celebrates the transformative efforts of women like Srishti Bakshi.
In this interview, Srishti sheds light on her remarkable journey in women’s rights activism. The narrative unfolds with Srishti’s decision to leave corporate success behind and embark on a 3800km trek across India, championing equity for women globally. Her innovative use of art and digital media, including the creation of the award-winning documentary ‘Women Of My Billion’, underscores the power of technology in amplifying philanthropic initiatives. Delve into the full interview to uncover the depth of Srishti’s narrative and explore the transformative potential of digital philanthropy.
Dr Ruth A Shapiro
This thought-provoking Global 20 interview with Dr Ruth A Shapiro provides a comprehensive overview of Asian philanthropy, its unique characteristics, challenges, and the potential it holds for shaping a sustainable future.
The conversation delves into the unique aspects of Asian philanthropy, including the strong influence of government and the significant role of family businesses. The community-centric approach of Asian philanthropists, focusing on relationships and addressing specific community needs, is discussed in fascinating detail.
Shifting to Hong Kong’s philanthropic ecosystem, hear Dr Shapiro talk about its rich history of private philanthropy, acknowledging the government-led efforts in philanthropy and the increasing interest from Chinese families seeking guidance on effective giving. And with optimism around the innovation and new models that emerging markets like India and Indonesia can bring to address global challenges, it is clear there is a need for immediate action.
Cindy Forde
Cindy Forde talks to our Group CEO, Ben Morton-Wright, about operating in line with the planetary boundaries.
Explaining how intervention and digital innovations can be supported by philanthropy and radical collaborations, Cindy’s interview is extremely powerful and instills hope for a more optimistic and positive future.
Robin Millington
Ben Morton-Wright, Founder, Group CEO and Director, Global Philanthropic Holdings and Robin Millington, the CEO of Planet Tracker, discusses the significant implications this will have on global food production.
In this Global 20 interview, Robin emphasises the role philanthropic funding can play in addressing the challenges related to food supply, and highlights the increasing responsibility of large food companies in the face of climate change-driven pressures on our food production.
Emma Beeston
Ben Morton-Wright, Founder, Group CEO and Director, Global Philanthropic Holdings, interviews Philanthropy Advisor, Emma Beeston.
The realm of philanthropy presents abundant opportunities to support inspiring people and organisations dedicated to driving social change. It can also be full of a daunting number of choices regarding how and where money can make a positive impact.
Dr Doug Gurr
Iain Rawlinson, Chair, Global Philanthropic Holdings, interviews Dr Doug Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum in London.
In this deeply compelling interview, Doug talks to our Chair, Iain Rawlinson, about his journey from the corporate to non-profit world, the ground-breaking work being carried out measuring the pristine natural biodiversity on the Earth’s surface, and the pressing challenges posed by the threat of a sixth mass extinction.
Douglas Gautier
Lincoln Size, Vice President of Australia, Global Philanthropic Holdings, interviews Douglas Gautier, CEO and Artistic Director of Adelaide Festival Centre.
Many of the best cultural organisations and art centres worldwide are very cognisant of their responsibility to diversity and accessibility. With Australia being one of the most multicultural communities on the planet, Douglas Gautier, CEO and Artistic Director of Adelaide Festival Centre knows only too well where arts and culture flourish generally, so does harmony and tolerance and a better understanding of walking in somebody else’s shoes.
Mark Ruffo
Ben Morton-Wright, Founder, Group CEO and Director, Global Philanthropic Holdings, interviews Landesa’s Chief Development Officer, Mark Ruffo.
Did you know, around the world nearly 2.5 billion people rely on land for their livelihoods? Yet many do not have the tenure to their land necessary to thrive. Securing land rights for the world’s poorest people is the work of Landesa, who in 2022, received a $20 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott.
John Pepin
Ben Morton-Wright, Founder, Group CEO and Director, Global Philanthropic Holdings, Interviews John Pepin, Chief Executive, Philanthropy Impact
Recent times have seen a massive jump in the amount of data and insights available. Quality research data is providing powerful and indisputable evidence, none more so in the philanthropic sector than that from Philanthropy Impact. In this interview John delves in to the sometimes-confusing terminology used in philanthropy, HMRC’s research on giving trends and what philanthropists really expect from their advisors.
Dame Stephanie Shirley CH
Ben Morton-Wright, Founder, Group CEO and Director, Global Philanthropic Holdings, interviews Dame Stephanie Shirley CH, Businesswoman and Philanthropist.
Over the course of the last 30 years, Dame Stephanie has given away almost £70 million to good causes. In this interview, Dame Shirley talks about important role of women in philanthropy, Venture Philanthropy, and how she approaches and focuses her giving, investing strategically in projects that will benefit from her time or insight, as well as her money, to maximise positive outcomes.
Professor Frances Corner OBE
Nick Jaffer, President and CEO of Global Philanthropic (Asia Pacific), interviews Professor Frances Corner OBE, Warden of Goldsmiths, University of London
In this interview, Professor Corner talks about the role of education in transforming peoples lives, Goldsmiths’ commitment to diversity and community, and its initiative around art for social good.
Geoff Holt
Ben Morton-Wright, CEO, Global Philanthropic Holdings, interviews Geoff Holt MBE, DL, Yachtsman and Disability Sports Ambassador.
In this interview, Geoff talks about the challenges facing charities in the disability sector, the importance of brand and how The Wetwheels Foundation has structured its model as well as its strategic long term thinking and development plan.
Prof David Lalloo
Ben Morton-Wright, CEO, Global Philanthropic Holdings, interviews Professor David Lalloo, Director of Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM).
In this interview, Professor Lalloo talks about how LSTM responded to the challenges of COVID and how interconnected the world is, particularly with diseases, and how these diseases expose the challenges and the frailties in society.
Lord Simon Woolley
Pam Davis, President, Global Philanthropic (Europe), interviews Lord Simon Woolley, Principal of Homerton College, University of Cambridge.
In this interview, Lord Woolley explains how philanthropists can empower beneficiaries and allow them to be the experts in making impact – and why ‘sewing a golden thread’ to link all stakeholders will help philanthropy to turbocharge change..
Griff Green
Ben Morton-Wright, CEO, Global Philanthropic Holdings, interviews Griff Green, Co-Founder of Giveth.
Cryptocurrency, or crypto as it’s more widely known, is any form of currency that exists digitally or virtually and uses cryptography to secure transactions. This alternative form of payment is clearly more than a passing fad, having now been in existence for more than a decade. Nevertheless, it remains widely misunderstood and shrouded in mystery, with doubts over its ethics and a reluctance to use it. Discover more as Ben interviews digital currency expert Griff, and prepare to be enlightened as he explains how crypto is a game-changer in the philanthropic landscape whilst it helps to build the future of giving.
James Thornton
Pam Davis, President, Global Philanthropic (Europe), interviews James Thornton, CEO, Client Earth.
James Thornton launched ClientEarth in 2007, sparking fundamental change in the way environmental protections are made and enforced across Europe. Now operating globally, Client Earth uses advocacy, litigation and research to address the greatest challenges of our time – including nature loss and climate change.
Hans Pung
Matthew Moss, Associate, Global Philanthropic, interviews Hans Pung, President, RAND Europe.
RAND Europe is a not-for-profit public policy research organisation that helps improve policy and decisionmaking through research and analysis. Hans and Matthew discuss the long term impact the pandemic could have on education for this generation of youth and the impact of mental health on society during the pandemic. Research shows the inequality for both education and mental health for disadvantaged communities around the globe. But it’s not all bad news, there’s some research highlighting steps we could take to mitigate some of the long term impacts.
Lady Edwina Grosvenor
Our first #Global20 interview is with Lady Edwina Grosvenor.
Lady Edwina Grosvenor is an English philanthropist and prison reformer. Also known as the Prison Philanthropist. She is the founder and trustee of the charity The Clink, and founder of the charity One Small Thing. She shares with Ben Morton Wright what drives her as a philanthropist and what lessons we can learn, from her experience and journey with philanthropy.