Past Events

For far too long, power has existed within a top-down paradigm. Now, we see shifts towards more distributed models that root agency in individuals and groups of changemakers. In the wake of Covid-19, governments have exercised an increased use of central power while communities are illustrating the incredible potential of resilient organisations and local action. As we confront the long-term impact of the current crisis on the power distribution in society, we must seize the opportunity this crisis creates. We must rethink the way power is leveraged and distributed, first within the philanthropic sector, then with other actors of social change. The Covid-19 pandemic presents an opportunity to explore the limited adaptations in power distribution, the alternative and innovative ways to shift power dynamics and harness unrecognized power for social justice and the greater good.

On 24 November we welcomed a panel of voices from all sides of philanthropy, including the co-author of the international bestseller ‘New Power’, and leaders in community activism as well as corporate philanthropy. They discussed and debated how power plays out in the philanthropic and nonprofit world, and what the strategies and practices are that can begin to shift these dynamics.

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Alongside the plenary event, we held exclusive workshops for the WINGS members. These brought together small groups of our network from around the world to have an intimate and challenging conversation about where to start with changing practice in order to shift power dynamics in philanthropy.

In the midst of multiple global crises – environmental collapse, rising inequality, as well as the pandemic – our reliance on flawed economic models and thinking has come into question. Whether this is the pursuit of profit at the expense of environmental or human rights costs; relying on GDP as a decisive indicator of economic success; and unregulated economic growth by a small number of global companies.

At the same time, we are seeing an emergence of new and innovative economic models that blend the boundary between nonprofit and for-profit organisations; integrate social value as part of core business; or find new and exciting models for a green economy. At this critical juncture, which economic models might serve society and the environment better? And what is the role of philanthropy in imagining and implementing them?​

On May 20, as part of #WINGSForum2021, we brought together a diverse group of expert speakers to begin this journey of exploring new economic models and thinking, and how philanthropic organisations can help push this agenda forward.

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