Philanthropy advisory Put your assets to good use

Good deeds and voluntary service have been integral to Nataly Davidai’s family legacy for generations. Over time, the bond created by this philanthropic commitment has grown stronger and inspired the family to ever-greater action.

Teresa Bracher and her family did plenty of homework before embarking on their collaborative philanthropic program in the Pantanal region of Brazil. Researchers had stressed the importance of involving the local community in her activities, and following this advice paid off in many ways.

A significant turning point in her life prompted Nicole Rycroft to develop a new vision for her philanthropic endeavors. Today, she supports corporate decision-makers in developing climate and conservation solutions.

Benjamin Firmenich’s approach to impact investing focuses on direct lending to small and mid-sized businesses. He has gradually perfected this approach over the past decade as he works to not only generate a return on his investment, but also have an impact on society.

When it comes to giving, Antonis Schwarz puts his money where his mouth is.

André Hoffmann wants to continue his father’s legacy and conserve biodiversity. But to succeed in this mission, he needs to remain open-minded and innovative.

Laurent Leksell, founder and majority shareholder of Swedish medical technology company Elekta, also founded the social impact investment firm Leksell Social Ventures. It focuses on market-based opportunities for change and social impact bonds.

Philanthropy runs in the blood of Elie Horn’s family. Despite his success in business, he has remained modest, taking the view that, “Money is best invested in people less fortunate than yourself.”

Swedish entrepreneur and explorer Frederik Paulsen is deeply perturbed by the effects of climate change. He is now devoting his many expeditions to gaining a better scientific understanding of the underlying problems and searching for possible solutions.

An entrepreneurial approach combined with a passion for the issue is how Emine Sabaci Kamisli is tackling one of Turkey’s most pressing social problems.

Tsitsi Masiyiwa’s story shows how a simple desire to help can evolve into a strategic approach to philanthropy.

You do not have to set up a foundation to be a strategic philanthropist. In fact, putting these principles into practice in your own business can often be just as effective – just ask Johan H. Andresen, the owner of Ferd, one of Norway’s largest privately held investment firms.