Philanthropy with Purpose: Aligning Family Values with Global Impact

By Tsitsi Mutendi : Family Governance Advisor 🔹 Multigenerational Wealth Architect 🔹 Legacy Builder

The Ripple Effect: Creating Waves of Change

Imagine a single pebble dropped into a still pond. The ripples it creates extend far beyond the initial splash, touching every corner of the water’s surface. Philanthropy works much the same way. A well-directed act of giving can create waves of positive change, impacting lives far beyond the immediate recipients.

The Mbatha family, owners of a vast agribusiness in Kenya, exemplify this ripple effect. For decades, their philanthropic efforts were ad hoc, driven by goodwill but lacking focus. When younger family members introduced the idea of aligning their giving with their core values, the family created a strategic philanthropy plan. They directed resources toward education and sustainable farming practices, aligning their efforts with both their heritage and global challenges.

Here are five actionable strategies, inspired by families like the Mbathas, to create impactful and purposeful philanthropy.

1. Define Your Family’s “Why”

The Mbatha family began by reflecting on their values and heritage. They asked themselves what causes mattered most and what legacy they wanted to leave. Their deep connection to the land inspired them to support initiatives focused on environmental sustainability and education for rural communities.

“Philanthropy with purpose begins when families align their giving with their core values.” – Marc Silverman, Chapter 28, Raising the Baobab.

Practical Tip: Host a family retreat to explore shared values and identify causes that resonate with all members.

2. Set Clear Goals for Philanthropic Impact

By focusing on education and sustainable agriculture, the Mbathas set clear, measurable goals. They partnered with local organizations to build schools and train farmers in eco-friendly techniques, ensuring their contributions made a tangible difference.

Practical Tip: Establish specific, measurable goals for your philanthropic efforts, such as the number of scholarships granted or communities impacted.

3. Engage All Generations in Philanthropy

To ensure continuity, the Mbathas created opportunities for younger members to lead philanthropic initiatives. Their children organized campaigns to provide digital literacy training in rural areas, merging the family’s mission with innovative approaches.

“When younger generations take ownership of philanthropy, it becomes a bridge between tradition and modernity.” – Joan Sharp, Chapter 9, Raising the Baobab.

Practical Tip: Assign roles to younger family members in managing and assessing philanthropic projects, encouraging their active participation.

4. Build Partnerships for Greater Reach

Recognizing their limitations, the Mbathas collaborated with NGOs and government agencies to scale their initiatives. These partnerships expanded their impact while leveraging the expertise of seasoned organizations.

Practical Tip: Partner with reputable organizations aligned with your family’s mission to amplify the reach and effectiveness of your philanthropy.

5. Measure and Share Your Impact

The Mbathas developed a reporting system that documented the outcomes of their giving. These reports, shared with family members and stakeholders, reinforced their commitment and celebrated their successes.

Practical Tip: Create an annual impact report detailing your philanthropic activities and outcomes to foster accountability and engagement.

Philanthropy, like ripples in a pond, spreads far and wide when aligned with purpose and values. Families like the Mbathas show that meaningful giving can drive profound change while strengthening family unity. For more strategies on impactful philanthropy, Raising the Baobab offers practical guidance and inspiring stories.

Tsitsi Mutendi is a renowned expert in family governance, with a strong focus on African family firms. As the co-founder of African Family Firms Expert, she has dedicated her career to advising and consulting family businesses and family offices. Tsitsi is a skilled facilitator, speaker, and author, known for her insightful contributions to the field. In 2023-24, she serves as the President of the Professional Speakers Association of Southern Africa. Tsitsi is also the co-founder of Mutendi Montessori, a primary and secondary educational institution, and the founder of DanTs Smart, a technology and software development firm. With over 23 years as an entrepreneur. Tsitsi is a renowned multi-potentialite entrepreneur whose expertise has earned her recognition in leading publications such as Forbes Africa and Arise Africa, and she has been invited to speak on prestigious global stages, including the Athena40 panel. Her work can be found on www.tsitsimutendi.com www.nhakalegacy.com www.africanfamilyfirms.org and her trending podcast for families of wealthy and their advisors https://anchor.fm/enterprisingfamilies. You can Also get her book RAISING THE BAOBAB https://amzn.to/42cpFdL