Never underestimate the power of people: Anita Patel on philanthropy in action

Anita Patel understands the importance of strong networks and the ability to act quickly when crisis strikes. As Vice President of Grantmaking at the Bush Foundation, she supports communities across North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and the 23 Native nations that share that geography. 

In the 2025/2026 federal crackdowns affecting migrant communities in Minnesota, the Bush Foundation was able to act quickly to support affected communities because of its established relationships and ongoing coordination with other funders and community groups – reinforcing the importance of preparedness in philanthropy. 

Anita will be sharing insights from this experience at the Philanthropy Australia Conference 2026 alongside reflections on the aftermath of George Floyd’s death and the racial reckoning that followed, and how these are relevant to crises in Australia. 

A key takeaway for Anita is what people can achieve when they come together. 

“Never underestimate the power of people and the power of the passion that people hold and the creativity that emerges when that happens,” she implores. 

The Bush Foundation was established by Archie and Edyth Bush. Archie was an early leader of 3M, an American multinational conglomerate. A key focus for the Foundation is the 23 Native nations who were the first inhabitants of the Midwest region it serves. Around 40 per cent of funding goes to Native nations and Native people to amplify existing work and strengthen philanthropy’s relationships with Indigenous communities. 

“We have a big focus on Indigenous people and thinking about tribal governance, food sovereignty, language revitalisation, and just all the beauty that our communities hold and what it takes for us to support that to really emerge.” 

At the Conference, Anita will also address the rise in philanthropic commitment to racial and intersectional equity, and the implications of changing federal definitions of racial equity. 

Anita is motivated by understanding how philanthropy can drive change globally. After meeting with Peter Johnstone of the Clem Jones Foundation, based in Queensland, she noted shared challenges across contexts. 

“There are things that are really tough in both of our countries, but we also see the role philanthropy can play in helping people to stand up, to be good neighbours with one another, and to figure out what to do to ensure that every person has what they need to reach their potential. I’m really interested in sharing lessons that can inspire one another and give some thoughtful challenges to each other as we keep working on our philanthropic practice.” 

While funding alone cannot solve every challenge, Anita calls for creativity and partnership.  

 “How does philanthropy partner with government in the ways that make sense… our cities, our counties, our state governments? We can leverage partnerships even as federal funding and practice shifts. There’s no doubt that there is a lot of urgent need. Just pouring in dollars isn’t the only solution. We can work with our communities and across the sectors to figure out the solutions, not just for today, but for the future.”  

Anita’s message is ultimately one of optimism and responsibility. 

“We have to keep sharing ideas because we know there will always be hard times. It’s up to us to channel how we respond and how we create a better future.” 

The Philanthropy Australia Conference is on in Brisbane from 7 – 11 September and is at 60 per cent capacity.  Register today: Home | Philanthropy Australia Conference 

Anita Patel welcomes conference attendees to get in touch and share what they would like to hear more about. Anita Patel, MPP – Bush Foundation | LinkedIn