As the largest foundation in Canada and the fifth largest in the world, the Mastercard Foundation seeks a world where everyone has the opportunity to learn and prosper. With this ambitious mission, it may not come as a surprise to find an equally aspirational leader. In this episode, Douglas Nelson is joined by CEO and President, Reeta Roy, to tell us about the important work the Mastercard Foundation is doing in areas of education and finances. Reeta shares the development of the foundation and the strategies they employ in communities from Sub-Saharan Africa to across Canada. At the heart of it, she highlights the importance of co-creation, of understanding that you don’t have all the answers, and, therefore, you must learn to listen. She also discusses her journey as a leader, the people that helped her along the way, and the lessons she learned on what excellence looks like in the social profit sector. Full of great wisdom on leadership and serving, this conversation is not something you would want to miss!

In this episode, Febe Voth, the Author of The Case for Your Cause, offers advice on messaging, storytelling, and writing a support case. She shares some examples to walk us through the framework she presents from her book. This episode is for individuals who need to craft a case as a tool to move donors and create a bigger impact on those who benefit from the work of the organization. Take notes from this conversation to receive the full value of Febe Voth’s guidance in writing a case for your cause.

The establishment of Canada's first Chinese Canadian Museum showcases how cultural institutions can uphold and honour the diversity of our communities. It shows the importance of representation in shaping our shared history. In this episode, Dr. Melissa Karmen Lee shares the significance of the Chinese Canadian Museum and her passion for startup organizations in the cultural space. As a female leader, Dr. Lee discusses the importance of setting an example for her two daughters as a working mom. She also discusses her strategies for building great organizations from a human-centred perspective. Tune in to hear how all about this historical cultural initiative.

In anticipation of the Coronation of King Charles III, Douglas Nelson sits down with Farah Mohamed, CEO of the Prince’s Trust Canada. She talks about their development programs for veterans leaving active service and equity-deserving youth looking for employment. Farah explains how their work investing in these amazing people helps them pursue promising opportunities and serve society in fulfilling ways. She also discusses how leaders should approach the war for talent and why she prefers the term social profit over nonprofit.

Being in the social profit sector requires embracing the ever-changing needs of the community. You must be nimble in order to respond to create a bigger impact. Younger foundations have the advantage of embodying these qualities. They can navigate the present and future without the weight of history. One of the new entrants as a community foundation here in Canada is the Toronto Foundation. In this episode, Douglas Nelson is joined by its CEO, Sharon Avery, to discuss how she has been challenging traditional notions of fundraising and philanthropy throughout her career. Sharon shares the changes she has implemented, particularly on the shift of focus from funds to impact. She also talks about seeking young philanthropists, keeping her team in a state of hustle, being focused on your vision and values, and ensuring inclusivity and representation. All of these things are an effort to keep the community foundation evolving and relevant. Tune in and discover how Sharon is championing “new philanthropy” with her work at Toronto Foundation. Gain lessons that will help you navigate the changing needs of your community and more!

“Mothers are the first teachers” - they are the initial figures in a child’s life who nurture and prepare them for the world. In this episode of Opportunity Spotlight, Christoph Clodius is joined by Bruce Flexman and Julia Kim Chair and Vice Chair, respectively, of Mothers Matter Centre. Together, they share the important work being done across Canada in support of vulnerable mothers. They also discuss the exciting opportunity to lead the organization as they search for a CEO. Listen to this conversation and discover if this CEO opportunity could be your next role!

Leaders in social profit have a unique opportunity to drive positive change and create a better future for all. Through philanthropy and education, we can inspire the next generation of leaders to make a difference in the world and leave a lasting impact on our communities. In this episode, Douglas Nelson speaks with Dr. Jacline Nyman, Vice President of External Relations at the University of Ottawa on the importance of philanthropy in higher education and how it can drive positive change in society. Tune in to learn from one of the most respected leaders in Canadian higher education.

Building a strong and inclusive community requires expanding our services to support all newcomers and to meet the evolving needs of those we serve, overcoming challenges with resilience. In this episode, we have Michael Itti, Executive Director of the Chinese Information and Service Center (CISC Seattle) in Seattle, Washington join us for a discussion on the evolution of social profits and adapting to changing environments. Michael shares how CISC Seattle has expanded its services to support all new immigrants, and the challenges they've faced during the current pandemic. He also discusses how he's brought together a coalition of organizations and the board to meet the needs of their community. Michael generously shares valuable insights and advice for anyone building organizations that serve their community. Tune in now and learn from Michael's experience and leadership in the social profit sector.

"As a fundraiser at a university, there's everything…It provides this incredible opportunity to be a matchmaker between the needs of an institution and the philanthropic aspirations and goals of donors." - Erin Morantz.

Erin Morantz, Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Engagement of Simon Fraser University, shares what it's like to build a coalition of collaboration and philanthropy for a significant comprehensive campaign. She highlights the value of the connection between leaders and those outside the organization to share experiences and gain advice. If you are interested in knowing what it takes to lift a large campaign and build an exceptional team, then don't miss this opportunity. Tune in to find Erin's expertise in fundraising and team-building in this episode! 

The BC Women's Health Foundation is the largest non-profit organization in BC. The organization aims to create equitable access to the quality healthcare women need. Douglas Nelson welcomes the woman behind this great organization who is dedicated to advancing the full spectrum of women's health. In this episode, Cally Wesson, the President and CEO at the BC Women's Health Foundation, unravels the StRAP (Strategic Research Action Plan) and the role of the Chief Development Officer in the organization. Cally highlights the value the team brings in helping the organization continue to serve the bigger vision it is trying to accomplish. Tune in to this episode, and together, let's move the needle on women's health.