Ubuntu Uplift: Imvelaphi Yabantu – Philanthropy in South Africa

March 21, 2025

Before You Fix It, Listen with Zanele Maphosa-Makombe and Ashley Green-Thompson| UBUNTU Uplift Podcast Series -Season 1 - Episode 2

<p>In the second episode of the Ubuntu Uplift Series, Zanele Maphosa-Makombe and Ashley Green-Thompson delve into the profound essence of philanthropy within South Africa. Zanele&#39;s journey is rooted in her upbringing, where the concept of giving was instinctive, as influenced by theselflessness of her parents. A significant turning point occurred during her gap year in rural Zimbabwe, where she engaged with local high school students and young mothers. </p><p>This experience reinforced her understanding of authenticphilanthropy, which is acknowledging the needs of others and being proactive to help. Similarly, Ashley Green’s early foundation in giving was established by his father, the only Black medical doctor in their town. His father’s commitment to an altruistic practice, often providing affordable medical care out of his own pockets, inspired Ashley to pursue a career in service. </p><p>He learned that philanthropy is not a transactional endeavor but rather a commitment to empowering others without the expectation of reciprocity.</p><p>Both Ashley and Zanele emphasize the importance oflistening. Ashley reflects on how philanthropy, in its current state, often overlooks the actual needs of the communities it intends to help, focusing instead on statistical reports and external assumptions. He insists that listening to the people is essential in redefining philanthropy from mere “charity”to a force for change. He states that it is not enough to treat the symptoms of poverty; one must engage with the root causes. Zanele echoes this sentiment, underscoring how philanthropy should be about seeing each other,recognizing the deep-seated needs within communities, and moving away from the donor-recipient dynamic to one of equal partnership and mutual respect.</p><p>The duo also confronts the practical challenges theyface in South Africa, from language barriers to the complexities of xenophobia. They acknowledge that philanthropy is not about simply imposing solutions, butabout amplifying the efforts already in motion within communities. Their work, which includes small grants to local initiatives such as the Apostolic Women Empowerment Trust in Zimbabwe and agricultural projects in Cape Town, aims toempower rather than dominate. They challenge both themselves and their peers to consider whether their approach to philanthropy truly strengthens communitiesor merely extracts from them and boosts their self-perceptions. </p><p>Philanthropy is not about a one-time handout, but about creating lasting partnerships that promote autonomy, sustainability, and genuine solidarity wherepeople work in harmony towards the common good.</p><p>_</p><p>For more information about CivSource South Africa <a href="https://www.civsourceafrica.com/civsource-south-africa-aboutus" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferer">CLICK HERE: </a></p><p>For more information about <a href="https://www.actubumbano.org/"><u>ACT Ubumbano</u></a>_</p><p>#UbuntuUplift #ImvelaphiYabantu #LegacyOfGiving #PhilanthropyForChange</p><p> </p><p></p><p></p>

January 30, 2025

Bridging the Giving Divide with Ashleigh Fynn-Munda and Dr. Sibongile Mkhabela | UBUNTU Uplift Podcast Series -Season 1 - Episode 1

<p>In this poignant episode of the UBUNTU Uplift Podcast Series, we unite two dynamic voices whose paths in philanthropy are as diverse as their generations. Dr. Sibongile Mkhabela, a stalwart of social justice whose activism was forged in the crucible of apartheid, sits down with Ashleigh Fynn-Munda, formerly Head of Philanthropy at Oppenheimer Generations Foundation, whose modern strategies are sculpting the future of giving.</p> <p>As the echoes of youth activism blend with the structured elegance of institutional philanthropy, this intergenerational dialogue unravels the intricate tapestry of bridging divides and nurturing young changemakers. Dr. Mkhabela’s reflections on the resilience born from resistance and Ashleigh’s vision for digital solutions and economic empowerment converge to reveal a shared commitment, transforming lives through the power of giving.</p> <p>Join us as we traverse the landscapes of equity and inclusion, delving into the heart of South Africa’s youth crisis, where 63.3% of young people bear the brunt of economic disparity. Listen in as our guests candidly discuss the urgency of engaging young voices in decision-making and the profound impact of inclusive philanthropic practices.</p> <p>From the legacy of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund to the groundbreaking initiatives of Oppenheimer Generations, discover how philanthropy not only heals communities but also builds bridges across time and experience. Together, we explore the vital question, how can we forge a future where every generation stands hand in hand, united in purpose and passion?</p> <p>Prepare to be inspired by stories that resonate beyond borders and time, and find out how you, too, can be part of a movement that transcends generations and transforms lives.</p> <p><br></p>

September 11, 2024

Sample episode