WINGS Asia-Pacific Working Group set to strengthen philanthropic ecosystem

In a significant step toward strengthening philanthropy across the Asia-Pacific region, WINGS – the only global network of philanthropy support and development organisations – has launched its Asia Pacific Working Group. This regional forum will elevate local philanthropic voices and connect them to global conversations.

At the launch event in September in Hong Kong, about 40 individuals representing 30 organisations from 10 countries met over two days, marking the beginning of a collaborative effort to reshape the philanthropic landscape in the region.

Philanthropy Australia (PA) was represented by CEO Maree Sidey, who is also a WINGS board member (below left), Lisa George, PA Co-Chair and Global Head of the Macquarie Group Foundation (below centre), and PA board member Kristen Stevenson, Head of Partnerships at the Minderoo Foundation (below right).

What is WINGS?

WINGS is committed to elevating philanthropy worldwide and unlocking its potential as a catalyst for social change. Its work is guided by three strategic pillars: strengthening philanthropy support ecosystems, influencing the policy environment affecting philanthropy, and transforming philanthropic norms and practices to better respond to today’s challenges.

What is the WINGS Asia-Pacific Working Group?

The Asia-Pacific Working Group is WINGS’ latest regional initiative, following similar efforts in Latin America and ahead of a launch in Africa in November. The group aims to provide a dedicated space for regional members to share insights, collaborate on collective actions and ensure that Asia-Pacific voices are represented in global philanthropic discussions.

Jodel Dacara, Regional Coordinator for Asia and the Pacific at WINGS, said: “The context in which philanthropy operates has changed dramatically. Through this working group, we want to transform philanthropy to be more responsive, inclusive and aligned with the realities of our region.”

Maree said: “It’s very important that the sector and PA members engage appropriately with others in the Asia-Pacific because cultural factors influence philanthropic practices differently among the regions’ countries.

“The Asia-Pacific is undergoing extraordinary development and growth in some areas, especially the bigger countries and we share many common issues and objectives in relation to the polycrisis and climate change mitigation.

“There are tremendous opportunities for our members to collaborate and share learnings with others in the ecosystem there and I would urge them to learn more about the WINGS Asia-Pacific Working Group with a view to deepening their engagement,” she said. 

WINGS Executive Director Benjamin Bellegy addressed the launch via video and said that it was important to have a new space for the organisation to be closer to the realities in the region and for members to have “a new channel to elevate your voice at the global level”.

Who is in the Working Group?

The Asia-Pacific Working Group includes around 40 member organisations. Thirty-two of these are based in the region, while others are global entities with active programs in Asia-Pacific, such as Myriad Alliance and Global Giving. These members span a diverse range of geographies, philanthropic models and issue areas, reflecting the rich tapestry of giving traditions and social investment across the region.

The launch event served as a forum and workshop, allowing participants to explore the state of philanthropy in their subregions, identify shared challenges and begin shaping a collective agenda.

What is the Objective of the Working Group?

The group seeks to:

• Deepen cross-border collaboration across the region and understanding of the region’s diverse philanthropic practices and cultures of giving
• Build shared infrastructure for philanthropy support organisation ecosystems and drive collective action
• Link regional realities with global advocacy and conversations.

Jodel said: “We’re hearing consistently that Asia-Pacific voices are missing from global philanthropy forums. This working group is our response – to ensure that our region is not only heard but actively shaping the future of philanthropy.”

How can Australian philanthropy get involved?

Australia’s philanthropic sector has a unique opportunity to amplify its impact across the region by engaging with the WINGS Asia-Pacific Working Group. While 40% of WINGS’ members are regional and national networks, representation from the Asia-Pacific remains limited.

Jodel says the working group offers members access to global and regional connections, a rich knowledge centre of collective intelligence and opportunities to participate in policy spaces such as the G20, UN General Assembly and COP.  “We also offer capacity development services, including free training programs for members,” Jodel said.

A key focus is addressing the polycrisis – the interconnected challenges of climate change, inequality and geopolitical instability. “No single organisation has the resources or expertise to tackle these crises alone,” Jodel said. “By working together, we can pool knowledge and develop innovative, intersectional solutions.”

The working group is still in its formative stages, making this an ideal time for Australian organisations to shape its direction. “The group’s success depends on active participation,” Jodel said. “As the Asia-Pacific is now in the global spotlight due to its growing wealth and influence, philanthropy here has a critical role to play.”

Read more about WINGS, its regional working groups and how to get involved.

Main image: Participants at the WINGS Asia-Pacific Working Group event in Hong Kong. Jodel Dacara is in the centre front in a light shirt.