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EMBRACE THE FUTURE
WITH PURPOSE

14th - 16th April 2025

Istanbul

Our Agenda
Redefining Engagement and Strategy in a Polarized World

2:30pm - 2:45pm

Welcome & Refreshments

2:45 - 3:00pm

Keynote

Welcome address from key organisers and an introduction to the themes of the event.

3:00 - 3:30pm

Session 1: Self-Determination: The Only Path Forward

Exploring the role of self-determination in reshaping the future of philanthropy and sustainable development.

3:30pm - 4:00pm

Coffee & Networking Break

4:00pm - 4:30pm

Session 2: Trump’s World: The Collapse of Western International Development

The decline of traditional aid structures and the emergence of new power centres. What this means for global philanthropy?

4:30pm - 5:00pm

Session 3: Gaza: We Are All Palestinians

The evolving role of global giving in response to humanitarian crises. Beyond charity, how do we make more impactful change?

5:00pm

Close

Summary of insights and end of Day 1.

7:30pm

Official launch of Global Wealth Forum Dinner

An exclusive gathering to share our vision that will shape the future of philanthropy.

*Prayer breaks will take place according to local prayer times in Istanbul. 

Leadership, Humanitarian Aid, and Media’s Role in Philanthropy

8:30am - 9:00am

Registration & Networking Breakfast

9:00am - 9.30am

Morning Plenary

Welcome address from key organisers and an introduction to the themes of the event.

9:30AM - 10:00AM

Opening Keynote: Shaping the Future of Global Philanthropy

Objective: Explore how philanthropy needs to evolve.

10:00am - 10.15am

Topic 1: The New Rules of Engagement for Islamic Philanthropy

10:15am - 11.00am

Session 1: Panel Discussion – Modern Islamic Philanthropy: Principles and Practices

Objective: Understand how traditional Islamic giving (zakat, waqf) can adapt to global challenges.

11:00am - 11:30am

Coffee & Networking Break

11:30AM - 1:30PM

Session 2: Hackathons

1:30pm - 2:30pm

Lunch and Prayers

2:30pm - 2:45pm

Topic 2: Capitalising on BRICS, Trade Wars, and Digital Philanthropy:

2:45PM - 3:00PM

Session 1: Keynote Session – Philanthropy in the BRICS Era

Insights from global leaders and policymakers on shifting geopolitical power balances and their impact on philanthropy.

3:00PM - 4:30PM

Session 2 - Breakout Sessions

4:30pm - 5:30pm

Facilitated Networking

Preplanned meeting sessions and refreshments

7:30pm

Keynote Banquet

Gala dinner and annnouncements with VIP guests.

*Prayer breaks will take place according to local prayer times in Istanbul. 

Leadership, Humanitarian Aid, and Media's Role in Philanthropy

9:00AM - 9:30AM

Morning Plenary

Welcome address from key organisers and an introduction to the themes of the event.

9:30AM - 10:00AM

Opening Keynote: Leadership in Times of Crisis

Objective: Explore way we can lead in times of crisis.

10:00am - 10.10am

Topic 3: Managing the Rise of Populism in Politics

10:10am - 10:40am

Session 1: Debate – Populism and Philanthropy

Format: Oxford-style debate. Motion: “Populism is detrimental to global humanitarian efforts.”

10:40am - 11:20AM

Session 2: Panel Discussion – Advocacy Strategies in Polarized Political Climates:

Objective: Provide tools for nonprofits to build coalitions and advocate effectively.

11:20am - 11:45am

Coffee & Networking Break

11:45AM - 1:30PM

Session 2: Hackathons

1:30pm - 2:30pm

Lunch and Prayers

2:30pm - 3:30PM

Topic 4: The Role of Humanitarian Philanthropy

2:30PM - 3:00PM

Session 1: Panel Discussion – From Reaction to Resilience

Objective: Highlight the shift from reactive to proactive humanitarian aid and the use of enterprise as a tool for mobilising local development partners.

3:00PM - 3:30PM

Session 2: Panel Discussion – Grassroots Leadership

Objective: Highlight emerging millennial leadership from across the world.

3:30PM - 4:00PM

Session 1 - Interactive Discussion – Media Partnerships for Social Change

Objective: Explore collaborations between journalists and philanthropists.

4:00PM - 4:30PM

Session 2 – Telling Stories That Inspire Change

Objective: Demonstrate how narratives influence public opinion and donor engagement.

4:30pm - 5:30pm

Keynote Address

Announcement of Partnerhsips

5:45PM

Close

*Prayer breaks will take place according to local prayer times in Istanbul. 

Conveners

Her Excellency Sheikha Aisha bint Faleh Al Thani
Her Excellency Sheikha Aisha bint Faleh Al Thani

Chair of Global Donors Forum

Ayşe Böhürler
Ayşe Böhürler

Member of Parliament, Türkiye & Founding Member of AK Party

Prof. Paul Palmer
Prof. Paul Palmer

Professor at Bayes Business School & Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London

Azim Kidwai
Azim Kidwai

CEO of Mercy Mission UK

Sayyeda Mirza
Sayyeda Mirza

Executive Director, Hub Foundation and Philanthropic Advisor, UVC Fund

Michael Gassner
Michael Gassner

Islamic Finance Expert

Dr. Yunus Sola
Dr. Yunus Sola

Director of Academy of Philanthropy

Tariq Cheema
Tariq Cheema

Founder of WCMP & GDF

Program

Guest tumbnail
Dr. Bilal Hassam
Doctor & Media Professional
Guest tumbnail
Dr. Shariq Siddiqui
Researcher and Academician
Guest tumbnail
Rashid Dar
Research Analyst
Guest tumbnail
Kashif Shabir
Community Leader
Guest tumbnail
Taz Latif
Program Manager
Guest tumbnail
Hannane Ramdani
Diversity Expert
Guest tumbnail
Dr. Amelia Fauzia
Researcher and Academician
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THE FUTURE DEMANDS YOUR PRESENCE

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to share your ideas and learn from experts at Global Donors Forum 2025.

14th - 16th April, 2025
Hyatt Regency,
Istanbul, Türkiye
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