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First Day January 5, 2020
Second DayJanuary 6, 2020
Third DayJanuary 8, 2020
Fourth DayJanuary 9, 2020
28 June 2023 | 07:45-08:45 Registration
28 June 2023 | 08:45-08:55 Opening remarks
28 June 2023 | 08:55-09:10 Chief Guest: Welcoming Remarks

Our Chief Guest, the first Vice President of the Republic of Zanzibar, will officiate and formally launch the conference. He will present different aspects of development towards systems transformation and the power of catalyzing collective action for a stronger and vibrant economy in Zanzibar, East Africa as well as the wider African region.

28 June 2023 | 09:10-09:25 Conference Foresight: Jacqueline Asiimwe - Board Chair EAPN

This session will set the scene for the conference, presenting different aspects of systems transformation, through the lens of Philanthropic work in East Africa, and the power of catalyzing collective action for a stronger and vibrant sector.

28 June 2023 | 09:15-10:55 Plenary Session 1: Driving Collective Action for Philanthropy That Supports Systems Wide Transformation

Plenary Session 1: Driving Collective Action for Philanthropy: A System Wide Approach to Transformation

The sector needs to be intentional about addressing root causes, breaking down barriers, and creating new structures or processes that support positive change. As we focus on Systems Transformation at this Conference, it is critical for actors to explore innovative and holistic approaches through which to drive change, rather than simply address symptoms or individual aspects of the challenges the sector faces. This session will engage experts in thought provoking discourses on how grantmakers, grantees, communities, and other stakeholders, can leverage systems transformation and collective action, which is imperative in creating meaningful and lasting impact. This kind of coordinated effort has the potential to catalyze solutions for the most pressing and complex societal challenges of our time.

28 June 2023 | 10:55-11:25 Health Break

Take a break from the intense sessions, stretch your body, and recharge your mind.

Our health breaks are more than just a chance to catch your breath. They provide an opportunity for you to connect with fellow participants, make new friends, and network with sector professionals. Who knows, you might even walk away with a new partner or a mentor!

28 June 2023 | 11:15-12:55 Breakout Sessions: Driving Systems Change

Group 1: Leadership, Governance & Giving: Engagements for Systems Transformation

Development in Africa requires radical shifts in leadership and governance. It is thus important for philanthropy to create tools that adequately measure and monitor governance practices. As we celebrate and recognize African leadership, philanthropy must also reinvigorate these leaders by supporting the development of their capacity in a manner that contributes to transforming systems. This session will focus on promoting a culture in which leadership, governance and giving are  ingrained in leaders in order to empower them to effectively drive systems change.

Group 2: Systems Change Mechanisms: Leveraging Local Opportunities to Bolster Philanthropy Ecosystems

Various support mechanisms are often at the forefront in combating the rising trend towards increased control and excessive, unwarranted restrictions of philanthropy and civil society. Philanthropy is part of a complex ecosystem that stretches across regions, jurisdictions, and communities. This session will engage in developing concrete action plans that are guided by evidence from research. We will engage on how donors, grantees, and intermediaries are working collectively behind the scenes to successfully protect and grow the space for philanthropy and giving, while leveraging available local opportunities towards systems change.

Group 3: Building Sustainable Communities: Driving Resilience

Community-led, community centered and community generated interventions are key to sustainable development in communities. Building trust and involvement of the communities in making decisions and mobilization of local resources is key in positioning communities in championing change and scaling up impact. Community philanthropy therefore enhances local ownership and empowerment, strengthens connections between communities and organizations that represent them, reduces donor dependency, and creates greater impact.  There is, therefore, a need to strengthen community philanthropy ecosystems and local resource mobilization, as well as harness this knowledge base. This session unpacks the power in inclusive decision-making and policy-making through interactive discussions. We will also unpack the legal and policy framework of philanthropy, create space for the cultivation and growth of community foundations and explore innovative models that will provide effective and sustainable support for the development of resilient communities.

28 June 2023 | 12:55-14:00 Lunch [Restaurant]
28 June 2023 | 14:00-14:15 Recap of the breakout sessions

This is to allow participants who may miss a session or who will be unable to attend the conference to catch up on the key points and insights that will be shared and to also provide a refresher for those who did attend, helping them to retain the information they will learn and solidify their understanding of the sessions’ content.

28 June 2023 | 14:15-14:30 Lightning Talk: Integration of AI into Storytelling and Fundraising for Nonprofits

Adopting artificial intelligence is critical for philanthropy since it will create more equitable and sustainable opportunities throughout Africa. This session will inspire the integration of AI into storytelling and fundraising, specifically how it can democratize access for African philanthropy. Emerging technology, including AI tools, are key for the improvement of sector deliverables and social impact in our communities.

28 June 2023 | 14:30-16:00Plenary Session 2: Reinvigorating Systems: Models for Collective Action

Systems change is at the top of the agenda for philanthropic organizations, with foundations and other agencies supporting a wide variety of initiatives meant to shift and revitalize systems. This session will explore meaningful models of collaborative systems change, which is not the sole province of any particular sector, the tripartite engagements among philanthropy-private sector-government, underscoring the importance of partnerships for problem solving towards systems transformation. These will include how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we engage and retain donors as well as cross border engagement which are essential elements of collective action

28 June 2023 | 16:00-17:30 Breakout Sessions: A Collaborative Approach to Strengthening Philanthropy

Group 1: Data & Technology in Philanthropy: Opportunities for Collective Impact

Philanthropy has traditionally been a sector of society that relies heavily on its supporters’ enthusiasm, expertise, and resources. However, with advances in technology and data analytics, there has been increased digitization in philanthropy. We are experiencing a dramatic shift in frequency and – more importantly – in effectiveness. Not only will giving be faster and more efficient, but also funders will be able to make informed decisions about where to allocate their money to achieve maximum impact. Already, these technologies are changing the way we practice philanthropy, and this transformation is only set to grow in the coming years. The combination of data-driven decision-making and automation tools will enable philanthropy to become much more meaningful and effective, influencing how organizations invest in social change projects and develop strategies for long-term impact. Philanthropy is under transformation for the better today, but soon it will be unrecognizable from its current state because of data & technology!  This session will reflect on how Philanthropic organizations can facilitate significant impact through adopting trends like advanced analytics, machine learning and other AI technologies

Group 2: Driving Systems Change Through Catalytic Financing: Dynamic and Innovative Models to Unlocking Impact

Catalytic financing mechanisms power strategic responses to address pressing societal issues. These mechanisms enable the mobilization and distribution of funds in a more strategic, coordinated and efficient way. Philanthropy has to adapt to and implement practical, innovative finance mechanisms which in turn increases social impact and drives development. It is therefore crucial for the sector to understand how to invest in areas that are both responsive to community needs and complementary to organizations’ objectives, while assessing the instruments of among other options blended financing. This session will engage experts in exploring how catalytic capital can be leveraged to unlock impact & strategic investment, strengthen communities, expands opportunity and economic growth, while fueling innovation that advances the well-being of people and the planet. This in turn lays the groundwork for mainstream investors to participate in transformative investments.

Group 3: Re-engineering Supportive Policy, Legal and Institutional Frameworks

Despite shared goals, a wide communication and collaboration gap often exists between philanthropy and policy enactors. Philanthropy actors recognize that the goals they pursue often converge with those of development agencies, national governments and civil society, and have therefore also become more engaged in shaping public policy and participating in high-level development forums. This session looks into how we can re-engineer a supportive legal policy infrastructure for philanthropy.

28 June 2023 | 17:30-17:50 Summary of Day 1

We aim at ensuring that participants get the most out of their conference experience, stay engaged and informed, and retain the valuable information and insights they will gain.

 

28 June 2023 | 17:50-18:20 Day 1 Networking Session

This will provide a dynamic and interactive forum for attendees to engage in strategic relationship-building and knowledge-sharing. By facilitating lively and engaging discussions among sector professionals, this session will undoubtedly foster innovation and forge new partnerships catalyzing future success.

28 June 2023 | 19:00-21:00 Cruise Dinner

We invite you to join us for a spectacular cruise dinner, an evening of indulgence, relaxation, and breathtaking views. Savor delicious food, enjoy great company and take in the magnificent sights of the ocean. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow attendees in a unique and unforgettable setting. We look forward to sharing this memorable experience with you.

28 June 2023 | 07:45-08:45 Registration
28 June 2023 | 08:45-08:55 Opening remarks
28 June 2023 | 08:55-09:10 Chief Guest: Welcoming Remarks

Our Chief Guest, the first Vice President of the Republic of Zanzibar, will officiate and formally launch the conference. He will present different aspects of development towards systems transformation and the power of catalyzing collective action for a stronger and vibrant economy in Zanzibar, East Africa as well as the wider African region.

28 June 2023 | 09:10-09:25 Conference Foresight: Jacqueline Asiimwe - Board Chair EAPN

This session will set the scene for the conference, presenting different aspects of systems transformation, through the lens of Philanthropic work in East Africa, and the power of catalyzing collective action for a stronger and vibrant sector.

28 June 2023 | 09:15-10:55 Plenary Session 1: Driving Collective Action for Philanthropy That Supports Systems Wide Transformation

Plenary Session 1: Driving Collective Action for Philanthropy: A System Wide Approach to Transformation

The sector needs to be intentional about addressing root causes, breaking down barriers, and creating new structures or processes that support positive change. As we focus on Systems Transformation at this Conference, it is critical for actors to explore innovative and holistic approaches through which to drive change, rather than simply address symptoms or individual aspects of the challenges the sector faces. This session will engage experts in thought provoking discourses on how grantmakers, grantees, communities, and other stakeholders, can leverage systems transformation and collective action, which is imperative in creating meaningful and lasting impact. This kind of coordinated effort has the potential to catalyze solutions for the most pressing and complex societal challenges of our time.

28 June 2023 | 10:55-11:25 Health Break

Take a break from the intense sessions, stretch your body, and recharge your mind.

Our health breaks are more than just a chance to catch your breath. They provide an opportunity for you to connect with fellow participants, make new friends, and network with sector professionals. Who knows, you might even walk away with a new partner or a mentor!

28 June 2023 | 11:15-12:55 Breakout Sessions: Driving Systems Change

Group 1: Leadership, Governance & Giving: Engagements for Systems Transformation

Development in Africa requires radical shifts in leadership and governance. It is thus important for philanthropy to create tools that adequately measure and monitor governance practices. As we celebrate and recognize African leadership, philanthropy must also reinvigorate these leaders by supporting the development of their capacity in a manner that contributes to transforming systems. This session will focus on promoting a culture in which leadership, governance and giving are  ingrained in leaders in order to empower them to effectively drive systems change.

Group 2: Systems Change Mechanisms: Leveraging Local Opportunities to Bolster Philanthropy Ecosystems

Various support mechanisms are often at the forefront in combating the rising trend towards increased control and excessive, unwarranted restrictions of philanthropy and civil society. Philanthropy is part of a complex ecosystem that stretches across regions, jurisdictions, and communities. This session will engage in developing concrete action plans that are guided by evidence from research. We will engage on how donors, grantees, and intermediaries are working collectively behind the scenes to successfully protect and grow the space for philanthropy and giving, while leveraging available local opportunities towards systems change.

Group 3: Building Sustainable Communities: Driving Resilience

Community-led, community centered and community generated interventions are key to sustainable development in communities. Building trust and involvement of the communities in making decisions and mobilization of local resources is key in positioning communities in championing change and scaling up impact. Community philanthropy therefore enhances local ownership and empowerment, strengthens connections between communities and organizations that represent them, reduces donor dependency, and creates greater impact.  There is, therefore, a need to strengthen community philanthropy ecosystems and local resource mobilization, as well as harness this knowledge base. This session unpacks the power in inclusive decision-making and policy-making through interactive discussions. We will also unpack the legal and policy framework of philanthropy, create space for the cultivation and growth of community foundations and explore innovative models that will provide effective and sustainable support for the development of resilient communities.

28 June 2023 | 12:55-14:00 Lunch [Restaurant]
28 June 2023 | 14:00-14:15 Recap of the breakout sessions

This is to allow participants who may miss a session or who will be unable to attend the conference to catch up on the key points and insights that will be shared and to also provide a refresher for those who did attend, helping them to retain the information they will learn and solidify their understanding of the sessions’ content.

28 June 2023 | 14:15-14:30 Lightning Talk: Integration of AI into Storytelling and Fundraising for Nonprofits

Adopting artificial intelligence is critical for philanthropy since it will create more equitable and sustainable opportunities throughout Africa. This session will inspire the integration of AI into storytelling and fundraising, specifically how it can democratize access for African philanthropy. Emerging technology, including AI tools, are key for the improvement of sector deliverables and social impact in our communities.

28 June 2023 | 14:30-16:00Plenary Session 2: Reinvigorating Systems: Models for Collective Action

Systems change is at the top of the agenda for philanthropic organizations, with foundations and other agencies supporting a wide variety of initiatives meant to shift and revitalize systems. This session will explore meaningful models of collaborative systems change, which is not the sole province of any particular sector, the tripartite engagements among philanthropy-private sector-government, underscoring the importance of partnerships for problem solving towards systems transformation. These will include how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we engage and retain donors as well as cross border engagement which are essential elements of collective action

28 June 2023 | 16:00-17:30 Breakout Sessions: A Collaborative Approach to Strengthening Philanthropy

Group 1: Data & Technology in Philanthropy: Opportunities for Collective Impact

Philanthropy has traditionally been a sector of society that relies heavily on its supporters’ enthusiasm, expertise, and resources. However, with advances in technology and data analytics, there has been increased digitization in philanthropy. We are experiencing a dramatic shift in frequency and – more importantly – in effectiveness. Not only will giving be faster and more efficient, but also funders will be able to make informed decisions about where to allocate their money to achieve maximum impact. Already, these technologies are changing the way we practice philanthropy, and this transformation is only set to grow in the coming years. The combination of data-driven decision-making and automation tools will enable philanthropy to become much more meaningful and effective, influencing how organizations invest in social change projects and develop strategies for long-term impact. Philanthropy is under transformation for the better today, but soon it will be unrecognizable from its current state because of data & technology!  This session will reflect on how Philanthropic organizations can facilitate significant impact through adopting trends like advanced analytics, machine learning and other AI technologies

Group 2: Driving Systems Change Through Catalytic Financing: Dynamic and Innovative Models to Unlocking Impact

Catalytic financing mechanisms power strategic responses to address pressing societal issues. These mechanisms enable the mobilization and distribution of funds in a more strategic, coordinated and efficient way. Philanthropy has to adapt to and implement practical, innovative finance mechanisms which in turn increases social impact and drives development. It is therefore crucial for the sector to understand how to invest in areas that are both responsive to community needs and complementary to organizations’ objectives, while assessing the instruments of among other options blended financing. This session will engage experts in exploring how catalytic capital can be leveraged to unlock impact & strategic investment, strengthen communities, expands opportunity and economic growth, while fueling innovation that advances the well-being of people and the planet. This in turn lays the groundwork for mainstream investors to participate in transformative investments.

Group 3: Re-engineering Supportive Policy, Legal and Institutional Frameworks

Despite shared goals, a wide communication and collaboration gap often exists between philanthropy and policy enactors. Philanthropy actors recognize that the goals they pursue often converge with those of development agencies, national governments and civil society, and have therefore also become more engaged in shaping public policy and participating in high-level development forums. This session looks into how we can re-engineer a supportive legal policy infrastructure for philanthropy.

28 June 2023 | 17:30-17:50 Summary of Day 1

We aim at ensuring that participants get the most out of their conference experience, stay engaged and informed, and retain the valuable information and insights they will gain.

 

28 June 2023 | 17:50-18:20 Day 1 Networking Session

This will provide a dynamic and interactive forum for attendees to engage in strategic relationship-building and knowledge-sharing. By facilitating lively and engaging discussions among sector professionals, this session will undoubtedly foster innovation and forge new partnerships catalyzing future success.

28 June 2023 | 19:00-21:00 Cruise Dinner

We invite you to join us for a spectacular cruise dinner, an evening of indulgence, relaxation, and breathtaking views. Savor delicious food, enjoy great company and take in the magnificent sights of the ocean. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow attendees in a unique and unforgettable setting. We look forward to sharing this memorable experience with you.

28 June 2023 | 07:45-08:45 Registration
28 June 2023 | 08:45-08:55 Opening remarks
28 June 2023 | 08:55-09:10 Chief Guest: Welcoming Remarks

Our Chief Guest, the first Vice President of the Republic of Zanzibar, will officiate and formally launch the conference. He will present different aspects of development towards systems transformation and the power of catalyzing collective action for a stronger and vibrant economy in Zanzibar, East Africa as well as the wider African region.

28 June 2023 | 09:10-09:25 Conference Foresight: Jacqueline Asiimwe - Board Chair EAPN

This session will set the scene for the conference, presenting different aspects of systems transformation, through the lens of Philanthropic work in East Africa, and the power of catalyzing collective action for a stronger and vibrant sector.

28 June 2023 | 09:15-10:55 Plenary Session 1: Driving Collective Action for Philanthropy That Supports Systems Wide Transformation

Plenary Session 1: Driving Collective Action for Philanthropy: A System Wide Approach to Transformation

The sector needs to be intentional about addressing root causes, breaking down barriers, and creating new structures or processes that support positive change. As we focus on Systems Transformation at this Conference, it is critical for actors to explore innovative and holistic approaches through which to drive change, rather than simply address symptoms or individual aspects of the challenges the sector faces. This session will engage experts in thought provoking discourses on how grantmakers, grantees, communities, and other stakeholders, can leverage systems transformation and collective action, which is imperative in creating meaningful and lasting impact. This kind of coordinated effort has the potential to catalyze solutions for the most pressing and complex societal challenges of our time.

28 June 2023 | 10:55-11:25 Health Break

Take a break from the intense sessions, stretch your body, and recharge your mind.

Our health breaks are more than just a chance to catch your breath. They provide an opportunity for you to connect with fellow participants, make new friends, and network with sector professionals. Who knows, you might even walk away with a new partner or a mentor!

28 June 2023 | 11:15-12:55 Breakout Sessions: Driving Systems Change

Group 1: Leadership, Governance & Giving: Engagements for Systems Transformation

Development in Africa requires radical shifts in leadership and governance. It is thus important for philanthropy to create tools that adequately measure and monitor governance practices. As we celebrate and recognize African leadership, philanthropy must also reinvigorate these leaders by supporting the development of their capacity in a manner that contributes to transforming systems. This session will focus on promoting a culture in which leadership, governance and giving are  ingrained in leaders in order to empower them to effectively drive systems change.

Group 2: Systems Change Mechanisms: Leveraging Local Opportunities to Bolster Philanthropy Ecosystems

Various support mechanisms are often at the forefront in combating the rising trend towards increased control and excessive, unwarranted restrictions of philanthropy and civil society. Philanthropy is part of a complex ecosystem that stretches across regions, jurisdictions, and communities. This session will engage in developing concrete action plans that are guided by evidence from research. We will engage on how donors, grantees, and intermediaries are working collectively behind the scenes to successfully protect and grow the space for philanthropy and giving, while leveraging available local opportunities towards systems change.

Group 3: Building Sustainable Communities: Driving Resilience

Community-led, community centered and community generated interventions are key to sustainable development in communities. Building trust and involvement of the communities in making decisions and mobilization of local resources is key in positioning communities in championing change and scaling up impact. Community philanthropy therefore enhances local ownership and empowerment, strengthens connections between communities and organizations that represent them, reduces donor dependency, and creates greater impact.  There is, therefore, a need to strengthen community philanthropy ecosystems and local resource mobilization, as well as harness this knowledge base. This session unpacks the power in inclusive decision-making and policy-making through interactive discussions. We will also unpack the legal and policy framework of philanthropy, create space for the cultivation and growth of community foundations and explore innovative models that will provide effective and sustainable support for the development of resilient communities.

28 June 2023 | 12:55-14:00 Lunch [Restaurant]
28 June 2023 | 14:00-14:15 Recap of the breakout sessions

This is to allow participants who may miss a session or who will be unable to attend the conference to catch up on the key points and insights that will be shared and to also provide a refresher for those who did attend, helping them to retain the information they will learn and solidify their understanding of the sessions’ content.

28 June 2023 | 14:15-14:30 Lightning Talk: Integration of AI into Storytelling and Fundraising for Nonprofits

Adopting artificial intelligence is critical for philanthropy since it will create more equitable and sustainable opportunities throughout Africa. This session will inspire the integration of AI into storytelling and fundraising, specifically how it can democratize access for African philanthropy. Emerging technology, including AI tools, are key for the improvement of sector deliverables and social impact in our communities.

28 June 2023 | 14:30-16:00Plenary Session 2: Reinvigorating Systems: Models for Collective Action

Systems change is at the top of the agenda for philanthropic organizations, with foundations and other agencies supporting a wide variety of initiatives meant to shift and revitalize systems. This session will explore meaningful models of collaborative systems change, which is not the sole province of any particular sector, the tripartite engagements among philanthropy-private sector-government, underscoring the importance of partnerships for problem solving towards systems transformation. These will include how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we engage and retain donors as well as cross border engagement which are essential elements of collective action

28 June 2023 | 16:00-17:30 Breakout Sessions: A Collaborative Approach to Strengthening Philanthropy

Group 1: Data & Technology in Philanthropy: Opportunities for Collective Impact

Philanthropy has traditionally been a sector of society that relies heavily on its supporters’ enthusiasm, expertise, and resources. However, with advances in technology and data analytics, there has been increased digitization in philanthropy. We are experiencing a dramatic shift in frequency and – more importantly – in effectiveness. Not only will giving be faster and more efficient, but also funders will be able to make informed decisions about where to allocate their money to achieve maximum impact. Already, these technologies are changing the way we practice philanthropy, and this transformation is only set to grow in the coming years. The combination of data-driven decision-making and automation tools will enable philanthropy to become much more meaningful and effective, influencing how organizations invest in social change projects and develop strategies for long-term impact. Philanthropy is under transformation for the better today, but soon it will be unrecognizable from its current state because of data & technology!  This session will reflect on how Philanthropic organizations can facilitate significant impact through adopting trends like advanced analytics, machine learning and other AI technologies

Group 2: Driving Systems Change Through Catalytic Financing: Dynamic and Innovative Models to Unlocking Impact

Catalytic financing mechanisms power strategic responses to address pressing societal issues. These mechanisms enable the mobilization and distribution of funds in a more strategic, coordinated and efficient way. Philanthropy has to adapt to and implement practical, innovative finance mechanisms which in turn increases social impact and drives development. It is therefore crucial for the sector to understand how to invest in areas that are both responsive to community needs and complementary to organizations’ objectives, while assessing the instruments of among other options blended financing. This session will engage experts in exploring how catalytic capital can be leveraged to unlock impact & strategic investment, strengthen communities, expands opportunity and economic growth, while fueling innovation that advances the well-being of people and the planet. This in turn lays the groundwork for mainstream investors to participate in transformative investments.

Group 3: Re-engineering Supportive Policy, Legal and Institutional Frameworks

Despite shared goals, a wide communication and collaboration gap often exists between philanthropy and policy enactors. Philanthropy actors recognize that the goals they pursue often converge with those of development agencies, national governments and civil society, and have therefore also become more engaged in shaping public policy and participating in high-level development forums. This session looks into how we can re-engineer a supportive legal policy infrastructure for philanthropy.

28 June 2023 | 17:30-17:50 Summary of Day 1

We aim at ensuring that participants get the most out of their conference experience, stay engaged and informed, and retain the valuable information and insights they will gain.

 

28 June 2023 | 17:50-18:20 Day 1 Networking Session

This will provide a dynamic and interactive forum for attendees to engage in strategic relationship-building and knowledge-sharing. By facilitating lively and engaging discussions among sector professionals, this session will undoubtedly foster innovation and forge new partnerships catalyzing future success.

28 June 2023 | 19:00-21:00 Cruise Dinner

We invite you to join us for a spectacular cruise dinner, an evening of indulgence, relaxation, and breathtaking views. Savor delicious food, enjoy great company and take in the magnificent sights of the ocean. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow attendees in a unique and unforgettable setting. We look forward to sharing this memorable experience with you.

28 June 2023 | 07:45-08:45 Registration
28 June 2023 | 08:45-08:55 Opening remarks
28 June 2023 | 08:55-09:10 Chief Guest: Welcoming Remarks

Our Chief Guest, the first Vice President of the Republic of Zanzibar, will officiate and formally launch the conference. He will present different aspects of development towards systems transformation and the power of catalyzing collective action for a stronger and vibrant economy in Zanzibar, East Africa as well as the wider African region.

28 June 2023 | 09:10-09:25 Conference Foresight: Jacqueline Asiimwe - Board Chair EAPN

This session will set the scene for the conference, presenting different aspects of systems transformation, through the lens of Philanthropic work in East Africa, and the power of catalyzing collective action for a stronger and vibrant sector.

28 June 2023 | 09:15-10:55 Plenary Session 1: Driving Collective Action for Philanthropy That Supports Systems Wide Transformation

Plenary Session 1: Driving Collective Action for Philanthropy: A System Wide Approach to Transformation

The sector needs to be intentional about addressing root causes, breaking down barriers, and creating new structures or processes that support positive change. As we focus on Systems Transformation at this Conference, it is critical for actors to explore innovative and holistic approaches through which to drive change, rather than simply address symptoms or individual aspects of the challenges the sector faces. This session will engage experts in thought provoking discourses on how grantmakers, grantees, communities, and other stakeholders, can leverage systems transformation and collective action, which is imperative in creating meaningful and lasting impact. This kind of coordinated effort has the potential to catalyze solutions for the most pressing and complex societal challenges of our time.

28 June 2023 | 10:55-11:25 Health Break

Take a break from the intense sessions, stretch your body, and recharge your mind.

Our health breaks are more than just a chance to catch your breath. They provide an opportunity for you to connect with fellow participants, make new friends, and network with sector professionals. Who knows, you might even walk away with a new partner or a mentor!

28 June 2023 | 11:15-12:55 Breakout Sessions: Driving Systems Change

Group 1: Leadership, Governance & Giving: Engagements for Systems Transformation

Development in Africa requires radical shifts in leadership and governance. It is thus important for philanthropy to create tools that adequately measure and monitor governance practices. As we celebrate and recognize African leadership, philanthropy must also reinvigorate these leaders by supporting the development of their capacity in a manner that contributes to transforming systems. This session will focus on promoting a culture in which leadership, governance and giving are  ingrained in leaders in order to empower them to effectively drive systems change.

Group 2: Systems Change Mechanisms: Leveraging Local Opportunities to Bolster Philanthropy Ecosystems

Various support mechanisms are often at the forefront in combating the rising trend towards increased control and excessive, unwarranted restrictions of philanthropy and civil society. Philanthropy is part of a complex ecosystem that stretches across regions, jurisdictions, and communities. This session will engage in developing concrete action plans that are guided by evidence from research. We will engage on how donors, grantees, and intermediaries are working collectively behind the scenes to successfully protect and grow the space for philanthropy and giving, while leveraging available local opportunities towards systems change.

Group 3: Building Sustainable Communities: Driving Resilience

Community-led, community centered and community generated interventions are key to sustainable development in communities. Building trust and involvement of the communities in making decisions and mobilization of local resources is key in positioning communities in championing change and scaling up impact. Community philanthropy therefore enhances local ownership and empowerment, strengthens connections between communities and organizations that represent them, reduces donor dependency, and creates greater impact.  There is, therefore, a need to strengthen community philanthropy ecosystems and local resource mobilization, as well as harness this knowledge base. This session unpacks the power in inclusive decision-making and policy-making through interactive discussions. We will also unpack the legal and policy framework of philanthropy, create space for the cultivation and growth of community foundations and explore innovative models that will provide effective and sustainable support for the development of resilient communities.

28 June 2023 | 12:55-14:00 Lunch [Restaurant]
28 June 2023 | 14:00-14:15 Recap of the breakout sessions

This is to allow participants who may miss a session or who will be unable to attend the conference to catch up on the key points and insights that will be shared and to also provide a refresher for those who did attend, helping them to retain the information they will learn and solidify their understanding of the sessions’ content.

28 June 2023 | 14:15-14:30 Lightning Talk: Integration of AI into Storytelling and Fundraising for Nonprofits

Adopting artificial intelligence is critical for philanthropy since it will create more equitable and sustainable opportunities throughout Africa. This session will inspire the integration of AI into storytelling and fundraising, specifically how it can democratize access for African philanthropy. Emerging technology, including AI tools, are key for the improvement of sector deliverables and social impact in our communities.

28 June 2023 | 14:30-16:00Plenary Session 2: Reinvigorating Systems: Models for Collective Action

Systems change is at the top of the agenda for philanthropic organizations, with foundations and other agencies supporting a wide variety of initiatives meant to shift and revitalize systems. This session will explore meaningful models of collaborative systems change, which is not the sole province of any particular sector, the tripartite engagements among philanthropy-private sector-government, underscoring the importance of partnerships for problem solving towards systems transformation. These will include how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we engage and retain donors as well as cross border engagement which are essential elements of collective action

28 June 2023 | 16:00-17:30 Breakout Sessions: A Collaborative Approach to Strengthening Philanthropy

Group 1: Data & Technology in Philanthropy: Opportunities for Collective Impact

Philanthropy has traditionally been a sector of society that relies heavily on its supporters’ enthusiasm, expertise, and resources. However, with advances in technology and data analytics, there has been increased digitization in philanthropy. We are experiencing a dramatic shift in frequency and – more importantly – in effectiveness. Not only will giving be faster and more efficient, but also funders will be able to make informed decisions about where to allocate their money to achieve maximum impact. Already, these technologies are changing the way we practice philanthropy, and this transformation is only set to grow in the coming years. The combination of data-driven decision-making and automation tools will enable philanthropy to become much more meaningful and effective, influencing how organizations invest in social change projects and develop strategies for long-term impact. Philanthropy is under transformation for the better today, but soon it will be unrecognizable from its current state because of data & technology!  This session will reflect on how Philanthropic organizations can facilitate significant impact through adopting trends like advanced analytics, machine learning and other AI technologies

Group 2: Driving Systems Change Through Catalytic Financing: Dynamic and Innovative Models to Unlocking Impact

Catalytic financing mechanisms power strategic responses to address pressing societal issues. These mechanisms enable the mobilization and distribution of funds in a more strategic, coordinated and efficient way. Philanthropy has to adapt to and implement practical, innovative finance mechanisms which in turn increases social impact and drives development. It is therefore crucial for the sector to understand how to invest in areas that are both responsive to community needs and complementary to organizations’ objectives, while assessing the instruments of among other options blended financing. This session will engage experts in exploring how catalytic capital can be leveraged to unlock impact & strategic investment, strengthen communities, expands opportunity and economic growth, while fueling innovation that advances the well-being of people and the planet. This in turn lays the groundwork for mainstream investors to participate in transformative investments.

Group 3: Re-engineering Supportive Policy, Legal and Institutional Frameworks

Despite shared goals, a wide communication and collaboration gap often exists between philanthropy and policy enactors. Philanthropy actors recognize that the goals they pursue often converge with those of development agencies, national governments and civil society, and have therefore also become more engaged in shaping public policy and participating in high-level development forums. This session looks into how we can re-engineer a supportive legal policy infrastructure for philanthropy.

28 June 2023 | 17:30-17:50 Summary of Day 1

We aim at ensuring that participants get the most out of their conference experience, stay engaged and informed, and retain the valuable information and insights they will gain.

 

28 June 2023 | 17:50-18:20 Day 1 Networking Session

This will provide a dynamic and interactive forum for attendees to engage in strategic relationship-building and knowledge-sharing. By facilitating lively and engaging discussions among sector professionals, this session will undoubtedly foster innovation and forge new partnerships catalyzing future success.

28 June 2023 | 19:00-21:00 Cruise Dinner

We invite you to join us for a spectacular cruise dinner, an evening of indulgence, relaxation, and breathtaking views. Savor delicious food, enjoy great company and take in the magnificent sights of the ocean. It’s a perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with fellow attendees in a unique and unforgettable setting. We look forward to sharing this memorable experience with you.