CAPS Spotlight - October 16, 2024
Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society (CAPS)
A uniquely Asian, independent action-oriented research and advisory organization.
Dear Friends,
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ratan Tata, a global business leader and prominent philanthropist. He has been a stalwart supporter of our work and philanthropy in Asia more broadly. For many years, he served on CAPS' advisory board, offering invaluable guidance to advance our mission of enhancing the social investment sector in Asia.
In both the business and social sectors, Ratan Tata had an incredible ability to see opportunities others did not see. In many cases, the market did not immediately support his views but he persevered and inevitably his vision and foresight proved right. This kind of leadership is rare and it helps to understand why he has justifiably been seen as a visionary leader across a number of fronts in India and around the world. To hear more about his philanthropic journey and philosophy, please listen to our conversation available here. You will see why Mr. Tata will be greatly missed.
While we keep his legacy in mind, CAPS’ work has continued. Last week, our Director of Research, Dr. Annelotte Walsh , and Senior Research Associate, Natalee Hung , were in Bangkok to meet our partner organizations and government officials. They discussed the landscape of Thailand’s social sector and explored further opportunities for research collaboration. Meanwhile, our Senior Advisor, Kithmina Hewage , presented key findings from the Doing Good Index 2024 and engaged in intensive discussions on the opportunities and challenges facing Pakistan’s social sector at dissemination events in Islamabad and Lahore. These events were organized by our local partner, the Pakistan Centre for Philanthropy (PCP) .
Additionally, our latest report in the DECODED Series, Collaborative Giving in Asia, is out now! Drawing from 14 in-depth interviews with donors, key organizational representatives and experts, this report sheds light on how collaborative philanthropy is pursued in Asia. You can download the full report here.
Best,
Co-Founder and Chief Executive
Doing Good: The Latest in Asia
Ratan Tata, chairman emeritus of Tata Sons, passed away at 86, leaving a lasting legacy of visionary leadership, global business expansion, and philanthropy. He transformed the Tata Group and directed 65% of its profits to charitable causes. Hear more about his philanthropic journey and philosophy here.
Singapore has launched new initiatives to help charities safeguard against money laundering and terrorist financing, adopt ESG practices, and access mediation services. These measures aim to enhance governance and public trust in the sector, benefiting over 2,300 charities. Read more about these initiatives here.
Japan’s richest person, UNIQLO founder Tadashi Yanai, donated $31 million to UCLA’s Yanai Initiative, supporting the global study of Japanese humanities. The funds will enhance the Japan Past & Present project and foster global collaboration among scholars through a digital hub. Read more about this largest gift to UCLA’s College Division of Humanities here.
Sixteen-year-old Tamzid Rahman is a finalist for the International Children's Peace Prize, recognized for creating BloodLink, a peer-to-peer blood donation app launched in 2023. The platform has facilitated over 1,200 matches, saving 500+ lives, and raised $25,000 to expand its reach and impact. Read more about his story here.
Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s first Olympic gold medalist, is backing a collaboration between smartphone brand TECNO Mobile Global and Hope Uplift Foundation to advance technology and education for disadvantaged children in the country. Read more about this initiative here.
HelpAge Sri Lanka is a charity dedicated to supporting disadvantaged senior citizens. Its "Gift of Sight" 2024 campaign aims to raise funds for 2,000 free cataract surgeries, building on its success of facilitating 50,000 surgeries. The initiative calls for further corporate partnerships and community engagement. Read more here.
Thirty-eight agencies will launch products and campaigns featuring Moo Deng, a viral baby pygmy hippopotamus. Proceeds will support flood victims and improve animal welfare at six Thai zoos, with items like stamps, T-shirts, and souvenirs planned for sale. Read more about this “animate” initiative here.
DID YOU KNOW
Source: Doing Good Index 2024: Examining the readiness of Asia’s social sectors to thrive, Centre for Asian Philanthropy and Society
CAPS AT WORK
Top: CAPS’ Director of Research, Annelotte Walsh , and Senior Research Associate, Natalee Hung , at the meeting with Thailand government officials.
Bottom: CAPS’ Senior Advisor, Kithmina Hewage , at the Doing Good Index 2024 dissemination events in Pakistan.
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2moRemembering Ratan Tata for his remarkable work. Asia has lost a great Leader and a good human being. CAPS Spotlight has covered some important issues which are very useful. Great to read! Love your work❤️