The 2017 African Philanthropy Forum, held on October 30th and 31st 2017 in Lagos, Nigeria brought together high impact change makers with a commitment to transforming and developing the continent. Themed “African Philanthropy in a Changing Global Context”, the forum engaged with issues surrounding the role of philanthropists in shaping the future of the continent. It explored the role of African philanthropists as influencers and catalysts in an evolving global environment. It also showcased strategies for promoting collaborations and discussed areas of opportunity for strengthening and deepening philanthropy on the continent.
The session on “The Power of Going Together: Harnessing and Leveraging Strengths in Family Foundations” was moderated by Bimpe Nkontchou, Managing Principal of W8 Advisory. The session focused on the critical role played by Family Foundations in furthering social and economic development. It discussed issues concerning the role of living founders, the adequate engagement of the next generation and ways to effectively leverage and maximise the strengths of foundations to enable long term sustainability. Speakers included Sumitra Aswani, Head of Ishk Tolaram Foundation; Aditya Chellaram, CEO of Chellarams Plc; Funke Shonekan of the Chris Ogunbanjo Foundation and Kole Shettima, Director for Africa (MaCArthur Foundation). The session was both engaging and thought-provoking.
