Decolonising Philanthropy
Cultural Audit and Tool Kit
"Decolonising Philanthropy: Cultural Audit and Tool Kit" is a perspective altering training designed specifically for philanthropists and the corporate giving sector. This one and two-day in-depth program will challenge traditional philanthropic approaches by centring First Nations self-determination and strengths-based practices.
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Through a rigorous multiyear process of evidence based and deep narrative driven research with Aboriginal controlled community organisations on the ground, "Decolonising Philanthropy: Cultural Audit and Tool Kit" grew out of "Walking Together: A Guide to Philanthropic Investment in Indigenous Organisations and Tool Kit for Good Practice" as a framework for the Workshop. This one of a kind program focuses on creating more transparent pathways for Aboriginal controlled organisations and other community organisations to engage with the long described “black box” that is the philanthropic grant giving and making process.
Participants will reflect on their personal and organisational motivations for grant giving, critically examine the challenges faced by First Nations communities in accessing philanthropic support, and explore the practical steps needed to foster trust and collaboration.
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Through deep listening, learning from First Nations guidance, and adopting a “decolonising practice” lens, participants will gain the tools and knowledge to create meaningful partnerships that prioritise First nations wisdom, leading to organisational change.
Guided each step of the way by the expert facilitation of the Woor-Dungin team and esteemed First Nations trainers, participants will understand how previous deficit-based approaches can be shifted to highlight the inherit strength of the communities their philanthropic dollars are empowering.
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Through embracing deep listening, learn how community input can guide philanthropic practice and gain practical outcomes that can be implemented into your organisation.
Join us to embark on a journey of decolonisation, building cultural safety, and contributing to more equitable philanthropic practices.
Through this Training you will
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Gain a comprehensive understanding of culturally responsive grant-making practices from a First Nations' perspective, challenging prevailing euro-western models.
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Acquire practical knowledge and strategies for engaging with First Nations communities on their terms; with opportunities for on-country engagement with Aboriginal Community controlled organisations, fostering authentic relationships and partnerships.
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Learn from the experiences and guidance of First Nations people on effective engagement and relationship-building with communities, including practical considerations for grant/funding processes.
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Develop a deep appreciation for the importance of cultural safety and responsiveness in philanthropy, empowering you to integrate these principles into your grant-making practices.
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Reflect on the power dynamics inherent in traditional philanthropic models and shift towards a more equitable and collaborative approach that centers First nations voices and self-determination.
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Understand the contextual rationale for decolonizing wealth and its implications for the philanthropic sector, equipping you with the knowledge and tools to drive transformative change.
Your Facilitators
Uncle Wayne Thorpe
Uncle Wayne Thorpe is a respected Cultural educator and Elder of the Gunnai Nation, Gippsland Victoria. From his forefathers to his oldest son are all from Gunnai Country. Uncle Wayne’s Mother’s Country is Yorta Yorta.
In 2007, Uncle Wayne received a B.A. majoring in Linguistics and Sociolinguistics in the Gunnai Language. And earned his Masters Degree through research that promotes Cultural knowledge and practices titled – “Watbalimba” – Language of Song Story and Dance. He remains dedicated to the responsibility of sharing his Cultural knowledge to the Gunnai People and those beyond who are open to learning Culture.
Pia Gaia
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Pia has been teaching alternative community design and eco village development for 10 years and is co-founder of ‘the Gaia Temple’, facilitating workshops at the intersection of spirituality, ecology and activism. She has traveled around the world studying sustainability and alternative governance through Gaia Education and the Global Ecovillage Network. Her passion for First Nations Justice informs all of her work and now studies Community Development with a minor in Aboriginal Community and Yulendj (Knowledge) systems at Victoria University.
Shaun Middlebrook
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Proud Wiradjuri and Yuin man from New South Wales, Shaun has a history in management, finance and advocacy. Throughout his career he has always maintained a commitment to community. He currently sits as Social and Emotional Wellbeing Manager at the Yoorrook Justice Commission and Strategic Policy, Advocacy and Communications Manager of Aboriginal Housing Victoria.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING
Genevieve Timmons, Paul Ramsay Foundation