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Speakers
Clare Woodcraft
Speaker
Clare Woodcraft has over 30 years of senior leadership experience across philanthropy, impact investing and cross-sector partnerships, with a particular focus on using philanthropic and catalytic capital to address complex social and environmental challenges. She was the founding Executive Director of the Centre for Strategic Philanthropy at Cambridge Judge Business School, where she led applied research, executive education and practitioner-focused work to strengthen the effectiveness of philanthropy, particularly in the Global South. She is co-editor of Catalytic Capital: Unleashing Philanthropy for Systems Change and Reimagining Philanthropy in the GlobalSouth (Cambridge University Press, 2025 and 2024).
Previously, Clare served as CEO of Emirates Foundation, leading its transition to a strategic, portfolio-based model aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, and as Deputy Director of Shell Foundation, supporting venture philanthropy and social investment approaches. She now advises foundations, family offices and corporates on governance, impact strategy and mission-aligned investment. Trilingual in Arabic, English and French, her work sits at the intersection of philanthropy, finance and policy.
Kate Jarvey
Speaker
Kate has followed in the philanthropic tradition of her family, the Lilly pharmaceutical family. It has been her great privilege to work in the field of philanthropy throughout her life. She has worked on philanthropy projects around the world and has learned again and again that it is only in giving that we receive.
Kate came to live in Ireland in 1997 and enjoyed supporting various charitable endeavours here. In 2014, she realised a long-held ambition of finding a special philanthropy project in Ireland. That year, she founded the Crann Centre Ltd in Ballincollig, County Cork. CCL was founded with the mission of breaking the pattern of fragmented care services for people with disability and their families. This pattern has marginalised people with disability and their families, increased stigma and social isolation. She hopes that Crann will be the changemaker now and for many years to come!
LFT Charitable Trust
Speaker
Aisling Johnston and Aidan Lonergan of the LFT Charitable Trust will join us at the Philanthropy Symposium to share their experience of family and generational philanthropy. The LFT Charitable Trust’s vision is of a just world where people have equal opportunities to transform their lives, participate in their communities and build successful futures. At the Symposium, Aisling and Aidan will reflect on how different generations can contribute to a shared philanthropic journey, and on the impact that can be created through purposeful, long-term family giving.
John Hogan
Speaker
John is a member of the Institute of Directors in Ireland and the Insurance Institute of Ireland, with a Diploma in Corporate Direction awarded by UCC & a Professional Certificate in Governance awarded by UCD & the Institute of Public Administration. He served as a County Councillor for Tipperary from 1999 to 2019 and as a member of the former Tipperary VEC and Tipperary ETB from 1999 to 2019, performing the role of Tipperary ETB Chairperson from 2014 to 2019. He served as ETBI President for a one year term from September 2018, following from his considerable work at local and national level for the ETB and broader education sectors.
Michael McLoughlin
Speaker
Michael is Chief Executive of Amárach Research. He joined the Company in 2000 after a decade with AIB Bank. He has also worked in venture capital and retailing. Within Amárach he has particular interest in political and public affairs research; network planning and retail research and in stakeholder research. Between 2008 and 2010 he was, while on secondment from Amárach, Political Director of Fine Gael based in Leinster House. He holds MA and MBA degrees from University College Dublin. He is currently Chairperson for both the Social Finance Foundation and Irish Youth Foundation´s Boards.
Ian Williams
Speaker
Ian is a Co-Director at Caplor Horizons. He has lived and worked in more than 30 countries. Prior to Caplor Horizons, the NGO that he led for 16 years grew consistently from €2m to €25m; at the time he left it had a staff of over 600 in 10 countries. Ian is a non-executive director of an entrepreneurial international horticultural business. He holds a BSc, MSc and PhD in strategy and strategic change and is a qualified coach. He has had honorary roles at two Business Schools. Ian is committed to responding to injustice by facilitating strategic change.
Tim Murphy
Speaker
Tim Murphy, former owner of Flow Technology, a Cork-based, family-owned, process engineering company serving the beverage, food, and life science sectors in Ireland, Europe and the USA. He studied mechanical engineering at UCD, is a chartered member of Engineers Ireland, and a Fellow of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. In recent years, Tim and his family have engaged in structured philanthropy through Community Foundation Ireland to support community initiatives.
More speakers to be announced soon...
Previous Speakers
Fran Perrin
Fran Perrin is the Founder and Director of the Indigo Trust which she established in 1999 and now runs with her husband, William. Fran is also co-founder and Patron of 360Giving. Fran was formerly an advisor at the Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit, in the UK Cabinet Office. Fran is a Board Member of The Sainsbury Archive. In the past, she has also served as a Chair of the Board of Publish What You Fund and has been a member of DfID’s International Development Sector Transparency Panel. In 2012, Fran was named Philanthropist of the Year by Spears and in 2016 jointly received the Open Data Institute’s first ‘Women in Data’ award from Sir Tim Berners-Lee for her role in 360 Giving.
Maurice McQuillan
Maurice is CEO of Lifes2good Foundation. The foundation was set up by James and Maria Murphy after business success in Lifes2good. The current primary focus of the foundation is on the environment, but the foundation also continues with two programmes from the first strategic planning cycle, which focused on women and children in situations of vulnerability. The main geographical focus is Galway / West of Ireland and one developing country. The foundation works with diverse organisations, from Global Legal Action Network (GLAN) to CAMFED who specialise in girl’s education and empowerment in the developing world. Prior to this Maurice worked in the international development and humanitarian sector for 14 years. He was Global Security Manager for Catholic Relief Services (CRS) – a large American INGO operating in over 100 countries and prior to that he was the Head of Humanitarian Programming in Trocaire in Ireland.
Angela Kail
Angela Kail is a seasoned philanthropy and charity consultant with over 17 years of experience. Throughout her career, Angela has worked with philanthropists at all stages of their journey--from those just starting out, to those that are deciding whether to spend out. She has worked with established foundations, individual givers as well as those working out how to involve their family. Angela worked at New Philanthropy Capital in London where she led pioneering initiatives in the sector, including early adoption of theory of change frameworks, shared measurement systems, pooled funding mechanisms, and funder-plus strategies. Angela combines rigorous research with practical, client-focused solutions. She has led strategic projects across areas such as mental health, EU citizen rights post-Brexit, and the cost-of-living crisis. As a thought leader, she has been calling for philanthropy to be more effective, as well as working on solutions that would help make giving easier for people. Prior to working in philanthropy, Angela started her career in investment management.
Philip Murphy
Philip has been contributing to the Lifes2good Foundation since 2020, initially in a background capacity, and formally assumed the role of Program Manager in April 2024. He holds both an undergraduate and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, specializing in renewable energy. With three years of experience in this field, Philip is now dedicated to applying his expertise to support the foundation’s transition into the sustainable land use sector.
Tony Gannon
Tony is Co-Founder of Long-Term Foundation, est. 2017. (LTF) supports initiatives seeking to improve long term solutions to food security & nutrition, increase access to international markets & improve access to finance for small business development in Sub-Saharan Africa.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
Ondřej sat on the Innovate panel. He serves as the Regional Director Europe at Porticus - a global philanthropic entity that strives for a just and sustainable future where human dignity can flourish. Porticus partners with organizations around the globe to achieve systemic improvements to education, social justice, environment, sustainable economy and civic participation.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
Fran Perrin
Fran Perrin is the Founder and Director of the Indigo Trust which she established in 1999 and now runs with her husband, William. Fran is also co-founder and Patron of 360Giving. Fran was formerly an advisor at the Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit, in the UK Cabinet Office. Fran is a Board Member of The Sainsbury Archive. In the past, she has also served as a Chair of the Board of Publish What You Fund and has been a member of DfID’s International Development Sector Transparency Panel. In 2012, Fran was named Philanthropist of the Year by Spears and in 2016 jointly received the Open Data Institute’s first ‘Women in Data’ award from Sir Tim Berners-Lee for her role in 360 Giving.
Maurice McQuillan
Maurice is CEO of Lifes2good Foundation. The foundation was set up by James and Maria Murphy after business success in Lifes2good. The current primary focus of the foundation is on the environment, but the foundation also continues with two programmes from the first strategic planning cycle, which focused on women and children in situations of vulnerability. The main geographical focus is Galway / West of Ireland and one developing country. The foundation works with diverse organisations, from Global Legal Action Network (GLAN) to CAMFED who specialise in girl’s education and empowerment in the developing world. Prior to this Maurice worked in the international development and humanitarian sector for 14 years. He was Global Security Manager for Catholic Relief Services (CRS) – a large American INGO operating in over 100 countries and prior to that he was the Head of Humanitarian Programming in Trocaire in Ireland.
Angela Kail
Angela Kail is a seasoned philanthropy and charity consultant with over 17 years of experience. Throughout her career, Angela has worked with philanthropists at all stages of their journey--from those just starting out, to those that are deciding whether to spend out. She has worked with established foundations, individual givers as well as those working out how to involve their family. Angela worked at New Philanthropy Capital in London where she led pioneering initiatives in the sector, including early adoption of theory of change frameworks, shared measurement systems, pooled funding mechanisms, and funder-plus strategies. Angela combines rigorous research with practical, client-focused solutions. She has led strategic projects across areas such as mental health, EU citizen rights post-Brexit, and the cost-of-living crisis. As a thought leader, she has been calling for philanthropy to be more effective, as well as working on solutions that would help make giving easier for people. Prior to working in philanthropy, Angela started her career in investment management.
Philip Murphy
Philip has been contributing to the Lifes2good Foundation since 2020, initially in a background capacity, and formally assumed the role of Program Manager in April 2024. He holds both an undergraduate and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, specializing in renewable energy. With three years of experience in this field, Philip is now dedicated to applying his expertise to support the foundation’s transition into the sustainable land use sector.
Tony Gannon
Tony is Co-Founder of Long-Term Foundation, est. 2017. (LTF) supports initiatives seeking to improve long term solutions to food security & nutrition, increase access to international markets & improve access to finance for small business development in Sub-Saharan Africa.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
Ondřej sat on the Innovate panel. He serves as the Regional Director Europe at Porticus - a global philanthropic entity that strives for a just and sustainable future where human dignity can flourish. Porticus partners with organizations around the globe to achieve systemic improvements to education, social justice, environment, sustainable economy and civic participation.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
Fran Perrin
Fran Perrin is the Founder and Director of the Indigo Trust which she established in 1999 and now runs with her husband, William. Fran is also co-founder and Patron of 360Giving. Fran was formerly an advisor at the Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit, in the UK Cabinet Office. Fran is a Board Member of The Sainsbury Archive. In the past, she has also served as a Chair of the Board of Publish What You Fund and has been a member of DfID’s International Development Sector Transparency Panel. In 2012, Fran was named Philanthropist of the Year by Spears and in 2016 jointly received the Open Data Institute’s first ‘Women in Data’ award from Sir Tim Berners-Lee for her role in 360 Giving.
Maurice McQuillan
Maurice is CEO of Lifes2good Foundation. The foundation was set up by James and Maria Murphy after business success in Lifes2good. The current primary focus of the foundation is on the environment, but the foundation also continues with two programmes from the first strategic planning cycle, which focused on women and children in situations of vulnerability. The main geographical focus is Galway / West of Ireland and one developing country. The foundation works with diverse organisations, from Global Legal Action Network (GLAN) to CAMFED who specialise in girl’s education and empowerment in the developing world. Prior to this Maurice worked in the international development and humanitarian sector for 14 years. He was Global Security Manager for Catholic Relief Services (CRS) – a large American INGO operating in over 100 countries and prior to that he was the Head of Humanitarian Programming in Trocaire in Ireland.
Angela Kail
Angela Kail is a seasoned philanthropy and charity consultant with over 17 years of experience. Throughout her career, Angela has worked with philanthropists at all stages of their journey--from those just starting out, to those that are deciding whether to spend out. She has worked with established foundations, individual givers as well as those working out how to involve their family. Angela worked at New Philanthropy Capital in London where she led pioneering initiatives in the sector, including early adoption of theory of change frameworks, shared measurement systems, pooled funding mechanisms, and funder-plus strategies. Angela combines rigorous research with practical, client-focused solutions. She has led strategic projects across areas such as mental health, EU citizen rights post-Brexit, and the cost-of-living crisis. As a thought leader, she has been calling for philanthropy to be more effective, as well as working on solutions that would help make giving easier for people. Prior to working in philanthropy, Angela started her career in investment management.
Philip Murphy
Philip has been contributing to the Lifes2good Foundation since 2020, initially in a background capacity, and formally assumed the role of Program Manager in April 2024. He holds both an undergraduate and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, specializing in renewable energy. With three years of experience in this field, Philip is now dedicated to applying his expertise to support the foundation’s transition into the sustainable land use sector.
Tony Gannon
Tony is Co-Founder of Long-Term Foundation, est. 2017. (LTF) supports initiatives seeking to improve long term solutions to food security & nutrition, increase access to international markets & improve access to finance for small business development in Sub-Saharan Africa.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
Ondřej sat on the Innovate panel. He serves as the Regional Director Europe at Porticus - a global philanthropic entity that strives for a just and sustainable future where human dignity can flourish. Porticus partners with organizations around the globe to achieve systemic improvements to education, social justice, environment, sustainable economy and civic participation.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
Fran Perrin
Fran Perrin is the Founder and Director of the Indigo Trust which she established in 1999 and now runs with her husband, William. Fran is also co-founder and Patron of 360Giving. Fran was formerly an advisor at the Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit, in the UK Cabinet Office. Fran is a Board Member of The Sainsbury Archive. In the past, she has also served as a Chair of the Board of Publish What You Fund and has been a member of DfID’s International Development Sector Transparency Panel. In 2012, Fran was named Philanthropist of the Year by Spears and in 2016 jointly received the Open Data Institute’s first ‘Women in Data’ award from Sir Tim Berners-Lee for her role in 360 Giving.
Maurice McQuillan
Maurice is CEO of Lifes2good Foundation. The foundation was set up by James and Maria Murphy after business success in Lifes2good. The current primary focus of the foundation is on the environment, but the foundation also continues with two programmes from the first strategic planning cycle, which focused on women and children in situations of vulnerability. The main geographical focus is Galway / West of Ireland and one developing country. The foundation works with diverse organisations, from Global Legal Action Network (GLAN) to CAMFED who specialise in girl’s education and empowerment in the developing world. Prior to this Maurice worked in the international development and humanitarian sector for 14 years. He was Global Security Manager for Catholic Relief Services (CRS) – a large American INGO operating in over 100 countries and prior to that he was the Head of Humanitarian Programming in Trocaire in Ireland.
Angela Kail
Angela Kail is a seasoned philanthropy and charity consultant with over 17 years of experience. Throughout her career, Angela has worked with philanthropists at all stages of their journey--from those just starting out, to those that are deciding whether to spend out. She has worked with established foundations, individual givers as well as those working out how to involve their family. Angela worked at New Philanthropy Capital in London where she led pioneering initiatives in the sector, including early adoption of theory of change frameworks, shared measurement systems, pooled funding mechanisms, and funder-plus strategies. Angela combines rigorous research with practical, client-focused solutions. She has led strategic projects across areas such as mental health, EU citizen rights post-Brexit, and the cost-of-living crisis. As a thought leader, she has been calling for philanthropy to be more effective, as well as working on solutions that would help make giving easier for people. Prior to working in philanthropy, Angela started her career in investment management.
Philip Murphy
Philip has been contributing to the Lifes2good Foundation since 2020, initially in a background capacity, and formally assumed the role of Program Manager in April 2024. He holds both an undergraduate and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, specializing in renewable energy. With three years of experience in this field, Philip is now dedicated to applying his expertise to support the foundation’s transition into the sustainable land use sector.
Tony Gannon
Tony is Co-Founder of Long-Term Foundation, est. 2017. (LTF) supports initiatives seeking to improve long term solutions to food security & nutrition, increase access to international markets & improve access to finance for small business development in Sub-Saharan Africa.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
Ondřej sat on the Innovate panel. He serves as the Regional Director Europe at Porticus - a global philanthropic entity that strives for a just and sustainable future where human dignity can flourish. Porticus partners with organizations around the globe to achieve systemic improvements to education, social justice, environment, sustainable economy and civic participation.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
Fran Perrin
Fran Perrin is the Founder and Director of the Indigo Trust which she established in 1999 and now runs with her husband, William. Fran is also co-founder and Patron of 360Giving. Fran was formerly an advisor at the Prime Minister’s Strategy Unit, in the UK Cabinet Office. Fran is a Board Member of The Sainsbury Archive. In the past, she has also served as a Chair of the Board of Publish What You Fund and has been a member of DfID’s International Development Sector Transparency Panel. In 2012, Fran was named Philanthropist of the Year by Spears and in 2016 jointly received the Open Data Institute’s first ‘Women in Data’ award from Sir Tim Berners-Lee for her role in 360 Giving.
Maurice McQuillan
Maurice is CEO of Lifes2good Foundation. The foundation was set up by James and Maria Murphy after business success in Lifes2good. The current primary focus of the foundation is on the environment, but the foundation also continues with two programmes from the first strategic planning cycle, which focused on women and children in situations of vulnerability. The main geographical focus is Galway / West of Ireland and one developing country. The foundation works with diverse organisations, from Global Legal Action Network (GLAN) to CAMFED who specialise in girl’s education and empowerment in the developing world. Prior to this Maurice worked in the international development and humanitarian sector for 14 years. He was Global Security Manager for Catholic Relief Services (CRS) – a large American INGO operating in over 100 countries and prior to that he was the Head of Humanitarian Programming in Trocaire in Ireland.
Angela Kail
Angela Kail is a seasoned philanthropy and charity consultant with over 17 years of experience. Throughout her career, Angela has worked with philanthropists at all stages of their journey--from those just starting out, to those that are deciding whether to spend out. She has worked with established foundations, individual givers as well as those working out how to involve their family. Angela worked at New Philanthropy Capital in London where she led pioneering initiatives in the sector, including early adoption of theory of change frameworks, shared measurement systems, pooled funding mechanisms, and funder-plus strategies. Angela combines rigorous research with practical, client-focused solutions. She has led strategic projects across areas such as mental health, EU citizen rights post-Brexit, and the cost-of-living crisis. As a thought leader, she has been calling for philanthropy to be more effective, as well as working on solutions that would help make giving easier for people. Prior to working in philanthropy, Angela started her career in investment management.
Philip Murphy
Philip has been contributing to the Lifes2good Foundation since 2020, initially in a background capacity, and formally assumed the role of Program Manager in April 2024. He holds both an undergraduate and a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, specializing in renewable energy. With three years of experience in this field, Philip is now dedicated to applying his expertise to support the foundation’s transition into the sustainable land use sector.
Tony Gannon
Tony is Co-Founder of Long-Term Foundation, est. 2017. (LTF) supports initiatives seeking to improve long term solutions to food security & nutrition, increase access to international markets & improve access to finance for small business development in Sub-Saharan Africa.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
LTF’s main focus is on Small holder Farmers & Agricultural Small and Medium Enterprises who engage with them. It seeks to achieve these goals by providing direct lending to Sub-Saharan small businesses at interest rates that don’t distort the local market but where funding is unavailable from local institutions. Tony’s voluntary involvement in social issues started as a member of the Society of St Vincent de Paul over 40 years ago, working on social justice programs in Dublin’s inner city. He’s also a board member of Small Foundation since its inception in 2007, supporting development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Small Foundation focusses on innovative scalable solutions to famine and hunger. Tony Co-Founded and is CIO of Abbey Capital Ltd, an international managed futures alternative investment company since 2000.
Ondřej sat on the Innovate panel. He serves as the Regional Director Europe at Porticus - a global philanthropic entity that strives for a just and sustainable future where human dignity can flourish. Porticus partners with organizations around the globe to achieve systemic improvements to education, social justice, environment, sustainable economy and civic participation.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
In prior incarnations, Ondřej worked in diverse roles centered around social change: Be it as a member of national government (Minister of Education), elected member of national parliament, or on international scale as adviser to non-governmental & private sector, policy analyst, ecosystem organizer and author. Ondřej has worked with civil society organizations, think-tanks, public institutions, philanthropists and social entrepreneurs to strengthen open, inclusive society, sustainable approach to our planet and to transform societal systems so everyone can fully belong.
Currently, he also serves on the Board of CAN - Community Arts Network, an international organization that aims to provide a platform to connect and empower individuals and organisations to trigger positive social change through the arts. Ondřej supports various other philanthropic and civil society entities as a pro bono board member.
Ed Dunne
Ed is a health and social care entrepreneur and active philanthropist. A qualified social care professional, Ed has over 20 years in organisational management and social care service set up. Ed has been instrumental in the setup of several social enterprise projects. Ed founded Nua Healthcare, now the largest private residential care provider in Ireland, in 2004. The organisation now provides accommodation and care to over 600 persons with complex care requirements and employs over 1500 people. Ed departed from Nua in 2020 and is leading out the development of Dídean’s services across Ireland.
Krystian Seibert
Krystian Seibert is a leading expert in the policy settings for Australia’s not-for-profit and philanthropic sectors, with extensive experience shaping reforms in these areas. As Executive Director – Policy and Sector Development at Philanthropy Australia, he leads the peak body’s efforts to drive policy outcomes and strategic initiatives to grow giving and its impact.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Becky Holmes
Becky has been passionate about the natural world for as long as she can remember. Alongside running The Helvellyn Foundation, Becky works full time as Chief of Staff at Langland Conservation, a charity that provides cutting-edge intelligence support for conservation. She is also a member of the Advisory Group for the Environmental Funders Network which aims to increase philanthropic giving to environmental causes. She also holds a BSc in Ecology & Wildlife Conservation, and a BA in Graphic & Communication Design. She is passionate about all aspects of conservation but holds more specific knowledge on the areas of, poaching, the illegal wildlife trade and rewilding. And finally, she is obsessed with sharks!
Lydia McCormack
Lydia trained as a solicitor at Matheson and worked as a senior associate in its private client dept from 2010. She then joined the boutique private client practise, O’Connell Brennan LLP Solicitors, as a partner in 2022. She is a solicitor, Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA), trust specialist and is a member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP). She holds the STEP International Advanced PGDip in Wealth Planning and is the current secretary of STEP Ireland.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Tom Clinch
Mary O’Kennedy
Mary is a passionate advocate for values-led and impact-driven philanthropy and social investment. She has over 25 years' experience working in and consulting to civil society organisations and has been responsible for driving numerous capital campaigns and large-scale philanthropic and corporate investments across the charitable sector. After roles with Trócaire and DCU’s Educational Trust, Mary founded OKC in 2002. Her team now works across the not-for-profit sector to initiate and grow philanthropic, corporate and multi-channel donor relationships. Mary also advises individuals, families and corporate partners on effective philanthropy. Mary is co-founder and Director of CCI Executive Search and a Director of Creative Careers. She was the Founding Chair of Fundraising Ireland (now Charities Institute Ireland), represented Ireland as Ambassador to the International Fundraising Congress, and currently serves as Chair of EUConsult and Irish Advisor to the Global Leadership Foundation. She also sits on the Board of the Seamus Heaney Estate.
Ed Dunne
Ed is a health and social care entrepreneur and active philanthropist. A qualified social care professional, Ed has over 20 years in organisational management and social care service set up. Ed has been instrumental in the setup of several social enterprise projects. Ed founded Nua Healthcare, now the largest private residential care provider in Ireland, in 2004. The organisation now provides accommodation and care to over 600 persons with complex care requirements and employs over 1500 people. Ed departed from Nua in 2020 and is leading out the development of Dídean’s services across Ireland.
Krystian Seibert
Krystian Seibert is a leading expert in the policy settings for Australia’s not-for-profit and philanthropic sectors, with extensive experience shaping reforms in these areas. As Executive Director – Policy and Sector Development at Philanthropy Australia, he leads the peak body’s efforts to drive policy outcomes and strategic initiatives to grow giving and its impact.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Becky Holmes
Becky has been passionate about the natural world for as long as she can remember. Alongside running The Helvellyn Foundation, Becky works full time as Chief of Staff at Langland Conservation, a charity that provides cutting-edge intelligence support for conservation. She is also a member of the Advisory Group for the Environmental Funders Network which aims to increase philanthropic giving to environmental causes. She also holds a BSc in Ecology & Wildlife Conservation, and a BA in Graphic & Communication Design. She is passionate about all aspects of conservation but holds more specific knowledge on the areas of, poaching, the illegal wildlife trade and rewilding. And finally, she is obsessed with sharks!
Lydia McCormack
Lydia trained as a solicitor at Matheson and worked as a senior associate in its private client dept from 2010. She then joined the boutique private client practise, O’Connell Brennan LLP Solicitors, as a partner in 2022. She is a solicitor, Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA), trust specialist and is a member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP). She holds the STEP International Advanced PGDip in Wealth Planning and is the current secretary of STEP Ireland.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Tom Clinch
Mary O’Kennedy
Mary is a passionate advocate for values-led and impact-driven philanthropy and social investment. She has over 25 years' experience working in and consulting to civil society organisations and has been responsible for driving numerous capital campaigns and large-scale philanthropic and corporate investments across the charitable sector. After roles with Trócaire and DCU’s Educational Trust, Mary founded OKC in 2002. Her team now works across the not-for-profit sector to initiate and grow philanthropic, corporate and multi-channel donor relationships. Mary also advises individuals, families and corporate partners on effective philanthropy. Mary is co-founder and Director of CCI Executive Search and a Director of Creative Careers. She was the Founding Chair of Fundraising Ireland (now Charities Institute Ireland), represented Ireland as Ambassador to the International Fundraising Congress, and currently serves as Chair of EUConsult and Irish Advisor to the Global Leadership Foundation. She also sits on the Board of the Seamus Heaney Estate.
Ed Dunne
Ed is a health and social care entrepreneur and active philanthropist. A qualified social care professional, Ed has over 20 years in organisational management and social care service set up. Ed has been instrumental in the setup of several social enterprise projects. Ed founded Nua Healthcare, now the largest private residential care provider in Ireland, in 2004. The organisation now provides accommodation and care to over 600 persons with complex care requirements and employs over 1500 people. Ed departed from Nua in 2020 and is leading out the development of Dídean’s services across Ireland.
Krystian Seibert
Krystian Seibert is a leading expert in the policy settings for Australia’s not-for-profit and philanthropic sectors, with extensive experience shaping reforms in these areas. As Executive Director – Policy and Sector Development at Philanthropy Australia, he leads the peak body’s efforts to drive policy outcomes and strategic initiatives to grow giving and its impact.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Becky Holmes
Becky has been passionate about the natural world for as long as she can remember. Alongside running The Helvellyn Foundation, Becky works full time as Chief of Staff at Langland Conservation, a charity that provides cutting-edge intelligence support for conservation. She is also a member of the Advisory Group for the Environmental Funders Network which aims to increase philanthropic giving to environmental causes. She also holds a BSc in Ecology & Wildlife Conservation, and a BA in Graphic & Communication Design. She is passionate about all aspects of conservation but holds more specific knowledge on the areas of, poaching, the illegal wildlife trade and rewilding. And finally, she is obsessed with sharks!
Lydia McCormack
Lydia trained as a solicitor at Matheson and worked as a senior associate in its private client dept from 2010. She then joined the boutique private client practise, O’Connell Brennan LLP Solicitors, as a partner in 2022. She is a solicitor, Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA), trust specialist and is a member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP). She holds the STEP International Advanced PGDip in Wealth Planning and is the current secretary of STEP Ireland.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Tom Clinch
Mary O’Kennedy
Mary is a passionate advocate for values-led and impact-driven philanthropy and social investment. She has over 25 years' experience working in and consulting to civil society organisations and has been responsible for driving numerous capital campaigns and large-scale philanthropic and corporate investments across the charitable sector. After roles with Trócaire and DCU’s Educational Trust, Mary founded OKC in 2002. Her team now works across the not-for-profit sector to initiate and grow philanthropic, corporate and multi-channel donor relationships. Mary also advises individuals, families and corporate partners on effective philanthropy. Mary is co-founder and Director of CCI Executive Search and a Director of Creative Careers. She was the Founding Chair of Fundraising Ireland (now Charities Institute Ireland), represented Ireland as Ambassador to the International Fundraising Congress, and currently serves as Chair of EUConsult and Irish Advisor to the Global Leadership Foundation. She also sits on the Board of the Seamus Heaney Estate.
Ed Dunne
Ed is a health and social care entrepreneur and active philanthropist. A qualified social care professional, Ed has over 20 years in organisational management and social care service set up. Ed has been instrumental in the setup of several social enterprise projects. Ed founded Nua Healthcare, now the largest private residential care provider in Ireland, in 2004. The organisation now provides accommodation and care to over 600 persons with complex care requirements and employs over 1500 people. Ed departed from Nua in 2020 and is leading out the development of Dídean’s services across Ireland.
Krystian Seibert
Krystian Seibert is a leading expert in the policy settings for Australia’s not-for-profit and philanthropic sectors, with extensive experience shaping reforms in these areas. As Executive Director – Policy and Sector Development at Philanthropy Australia, he leads the peak body’s efforts to drive policy outcomes and strategic initiatives to grow giving and its impact.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Becky Holmes
Becky has been passionate about the natural world for as long as she can remember. Alongside running The Helvellyn Foundation, Becky works full time as Chief of Staff at Langland Conservation, a charity that provides cutting-edge intelligence support for conservation. She is also a member of the Advisory Group for the Environmental Funders Network which aims to increase philanthropic giving to environmental causes. She also holds a BSc in Ecology & Wildlife Conservation, and a BA in Graphic & Communication Design. She is passionate about all aspects of conservation but holds more specific knowledge on the areas of, poaching, the illegal wildlife trade and rewilding. And finally, she is obsessed with sharks!
Lydia McCormack
Lydia trained as a solicitor at Matheson and worked as a senior associate in its private client dept from 2010. She then joined the boutique private client practise, O’Connell Brennan LLP Solicitors, as a partner in 2022. She is a solicitor, Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA), trust specialist and is a member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP). She holds the STEP International Advanced PGDip in Wealth Planning and is the current secretary of STEP Ireland.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Tom Clinch
Mary O’Kennedy
Mary is a passionate advocate for values-led and impact-driven philanthropy and social investment. She has over 25 years' experience working in and consulting to civil society organisations and has been responsible for driving numerous capital campaigns and large-scale philanthropic and corporate investments across the charitable sector. After roles with Trócaire and DCU’s Educational Trust, Mary founded OKC in 2002. Her team now works across the not-for-profit sector to initiate and grow philanthropic, corporate and multi-channel donor relationships. Mary also advises individuals, families and corporate partners on effective philanthropy. Mary is co-founder and Director of CCI Executive Search and a Director of Creative Careers. She was the Founding Chair of Fundraising Ireland (now Charities Institute Ireland), represented Ireland as Ambassador to the International Fundraising Congress, and currently serves as Chair of EUConsult and Irish Advisor to the Global Leadership Foundation. She also sits on the Board of the Seamus Heaney Estate.
Ed Dunne
Ed is a health and social care entrepreneur and active philanthropist. A qualified social care professional, Ed has over 20 years in organisational management and social care service set up. Ed has been instrumental in the setup of several social enterprise projects. Ed founded Nua Healthcare, now the largest private residential care provider in Ireland, in 2004. The organisation now provides accommodation and care to over 600 persons with complex care requirements and employs over 1500 people. Ed departed from Nua in 2020 and is leading out the development of Dídean’s services across Ireland.
Krystian Seibert
Krystian Seibert is a leading expert in the policy settings for Australia’s not-for-profit and philanthropic sectors, with extensive experience shaping reforms in these areas. As Executive Director – Policy and Sector Development at Philanthropy Australia, he leads the peak body’s efforts to drive policy outcomes and strategic initiatives to grow giving and its impact.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Krystian previously served as an Associate Commissioner at Australia’s Productivity Commission, appointed by the Australian Government to jointly lead a wide-ranging inquiry focused on philanthropy. The inquiry's final report, 'Future Foundations for Giving', was released in July 2024 and sets out a reform roadmap for supporting giving in Australia. He was also closely involved with designing a new regulatory framework for community foundations in Australia, which took effect in early 2025. In his role as an adviser to a former Assistant Treasurer in the Australian Government, Krystian managed the delivery of major reforms focused on the not-for-profit sector, including the establishment of Australia’s charities regulator, the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and the passage of Australia’s first statutory definition of charity, the Charities Act 2013.
Krystian serves as Chair of Mental Health First Aid International, an Australian charity whose evidence-based mental health first aid training programs have been delivered to more than 8 million people in over 40 countries around the world. He is also an Adjunct Industry Fellow at the Centre for Social Impact at Swinburne University of Technology. He has completed a Master’s degree focusing on regulatory policy from the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Economics) from Deakin University.
Becky Holmes
Becky has been passionate about the natural world for as long as she can remember. Alongside running The Helvellyn Foundation, Becky works full time as Chief of Staff at Langland Conservation, a charity that provides cutting-edge intelligence support for conservation. She is also a member of the Advisory Group for the Environmental Funders Network which aims to increase philanthropic giving to environmental causes. She also holds a BSc in Ecology & Wildlife Conservation, and a BA in Graphic & Communication Design. She is passionate about all aspects of conservation but holds more specific knowledge on the areas of, poaching, the illegal wildlife trade and rewilding. And finally, she is obsessed with sharks!
Lydia McCormack
Lydia trained as a solicitor at Matheson and worked as a senior associate in its private client dept from 2010. She then joined the boutique private client practise, O’Connell Brennan LLP Solicitors, as a partner in 2022. She is a solicitor, Chartered Tax Advisor (CTA), trust specialist and is a member of the Society of Trusts and Estate Practitioners (STEP). She holds the STEP International Advanced PGDip in Wealth Planning and is the current secretary of STEP Ireland.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Lydia specialises in advising individuals and their families on personal estate planning, both from a legal and tax perspective, and on philanthropic giving. She also advises charities, foundations and charitable trusts on Irish charity law matters. Lydia has been recognised each year by the Chambers High Net Worth Guide as a leading expert in her field and she regularly lectures with the Irish Tax Institute, Law Society and STEP Ireland on matters relevant to estate planning and private philanthropic giving.
Tom Clinch
Mary O’Kennedy
Mary is a passionate advocate for values-led and impact-driven philanthropy and social investment. She has over 25 years' experience working in and consulting to civil society organisations and has been responsible for driving numerous capital campaigns and large-scale philanthropic and corporate investments across the charitable sector. After roles with Trócaire and DCU’s Educational Trust, Mary founded OKC in 2002. Her team now works across the not-for-profit sector to initiate and grow philanthropic, corporate and multi-channel donor relationships. Mary also advises individuals, families and corporate partners on effective philanthropy. Mary is co-founder and Director of CCI Executive Search and a Director of Creative Careers. She was the Founding Chair of Fundraising Ireland (now Charities Institute Ireland), represented Ireland as Ambassador to the International Fundraising Congress, and currently serves as Chair of EUConsult and Irish Advisor to the Global Leadership Foundation. She also sits on the Board of the Seamus Heaney Estate.
Nicklas Larsen
Nicklas from the Copenhagen Institute of Future Studies hosted the 'Collaborate' interactive session at the Symposium. Nicklas is a driven and creative futures and foresight specialist, educator, and advocate. He provides learners and leaders with the tools to approach systemic change, promote intergenerational fairness, foster international partnerships, and influence policymaking. He is the UNESCO Co-Chair in Futures Capabilities, a Senior Advisor heading Arts and Culture, and a board member at the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies. Additionally, he serves as Faculty at Parsons School of Design in Paris, he is leading Teach the Future in Denmark, and is a member of the Network of Institutions and Leaders for Future Generations. He advances futures literacy, foresight and systems thinking with learners and leaders by embedding the disciplines across education, public policy, philanthropy, cultural, and intergovernmental institutions. From innovative educational programs and publications to organizational strategy and experience design, he emphasizes the vital role of art and culture in nurturing public imagination.
Kate Symondson
Kate, the Head of Philanthropy at the Symondson Foundation, sat on the Activate Panel.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
Nicole Parkes O’Callaghan
Nicole will sit on the Activate Panel. Nicole is a Marketing professional specialised in the area of Retail and Consumer Goods. She sat on the Activate Panel.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
Stuart McLaughlin
Stuart is Head of Advocacy at Google.org, and sat on the Activate panel. He is driving progress on global priorities at major multilateral gatherings. He convenes key stakeholders to leverage AI's potential for positive impact, particularly in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Previously, he spearheaded Google's corporate philanthropy in Online Safety in EMEA, collaborating with organizations to support safe technology adoption and led Employee Giving and Volunteering. Prior to Google, Stuart was a management consultant with Accenture and Cap Gemini and also led Business to Arts, where he co-founded Fund It. Stuart is an experienced leader in leveraging AI for positive social impact, with an understanding of the potential and challenges of AI within a responsible framework.
Sean Coughlan
Sean host our Innovate Panel. Spanning both the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors, Sean’s experience includes Director of the To Zero initiative to end child sexual violence in a generation (to-zero.org), Executive Director of the Human Dignity Foundation, Chief Executive of Boards.ie and Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland. Seán has served on a number of boards and working groups including the Advisory Board of INTERPOL’s Fight Against Child Sexual Exploitation Initiative, the Board of the European Venture Philanthropy Association and the Board of Trustees of Airfield Estate. Seán is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin.
Louise McElvaney
Louise sat on the Innovate panel. Louise is Chief Human Resources Officer at Learning Pool, the Derry head quartered workplace learning technology company. Louise is part of the founding team that has grown the business from a kitchen table start-up in 2006 to a global provider of learning solutions for some of the world’s biggest brands and employing 450 people around the world.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Darren Ryan
Darren is a Board member of Philanthropy Ireland and was our MC for the Philanthropy Symposium. He provides philanthropy consultancy, coaching and strategy development for leaders of non-profits. He was previously the CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland and Director Ireland for The Ireland Funds. He is currently on the board of Philanthropy Ireland and is a Founding Director of SERI (Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland).
Nicklas Larsen
Nicklas from the Copenhagen Institute of Future Studies hosted the 'Collaborate' interactive session at the Symposium. Nicklas is a driven and creative futures and foresight specialist, educator, and advocate. He provides learners and leaders with the tools to approach systemic change, promote intergenerational fairness, foster international partnerships, and influence policymaking. He is the UNESCO Co-Chair in Futures Capabilities, a Senior Advisor heading Arts and Culture, and a board member at the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies. Additionally, he serves as Faculty at Parsons School of Design in Paris, he is leading Teach the Future in Denmark, and is a member of the Network of Institutions and Leaders for Future Generations. He advances futures literacy, foresight and systems thinking with learners and leaders by embedding the disciplines across education, public policy, philanthropy, cultural, and intergovernmental institutions. From innovative educational programs and publications to organizational strategy and experience design, he emphasizes the vital role of art and culture in nurturing public imagination.
Kate Symondson
Kate, the Head of Philanthropy at the Symondson Foundation, sat on the Activate Panel.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
Nicole Parkes O’Callaghan
Nicole will sit on the Activate Panel. Nicole is a Marketing professional specialised in the area of Retail and Consumer Goods. She sat on the Activate Panel.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
Stuart McLaughlin
Stuart is Head of Advocacy at Google.org, and sat on the Activate panel. He is driving progress on global priorities at major multilateral gatherings. He convenes key stakeholders to leverage AI's potential for positive impact, particularly in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Previously, he spearheaded Google's corporate philanthropy in Online Safety in EMEA, collaborating with organizations to support safe technology adoption and led Employee Giving and Volunteering. Prior to Google, Stuart was a management consultant with Accenture and Cap Gemini and also led Business to Arts, where he co-founded Fund It. Stuart is an experienced leader in leveraging AI for positive social impact, with an understanding of the potential and challenges of AI within a responsible framework.
Sean Coughlan
Sean host our Innovate Panel. Spanning both the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors, Sean’s experience includes Director of the To Zero initiative to end child sexual violence in a generation (to-zero.org), Executive Director of the Human Dignity Foundation, Chief Executive of Boards.ie and Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland. Seán has served on a number of boards and working groups including the Advisory Board of INTERPOL’s Fight Against Child Sexual Exploitation Initiative, the Board of the European Venture Philanthropy Association and the Board of Trustees of Airfield Estate. Seán is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin.
Louise McElvaney
Louise sat on the Innovate panel. Louise is Chief Human Resources Officer at Learning Pool, the Derry head quartered workplace learning technology company. Louise is part of the founding team that has grown the business from a kitchen table start-up in 2006 to a global provider of learning solutions for some of the world’s biggest brands and employing 450 people around the world.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Darren Ryan
Darren is a Board member of Philanthropy Ireland and was our MC for the Philanthropy Symposium. He provides philanthropy consultancy, coaching and strategy development for leaders of non-profits. He was previously the CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland and Director Ireland for The Ireland Funds. He is currently on the board of Philanthropy Ireland and is a Founding Director of SERI (Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland).
Nicklas Larsen
Nicklas from the Copenhagen Institute of Future Studies hosted the 'Collaborate' interactive session at the Symposium. Nicklas is a driven and creative futures and foresight specialist, educator, and advocate. He provides learners and leaders with the tools to approach systemic change, promote intergenerational fairness, foster international partnerships, and influence policymaking. He is the UNESCO Co-Chair in Futures Capabilities, a Senior Advisor heading Arts and Culture, and a board member at the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies. Additionally, he serves as Faculty at Parsons School of Design in Paris, he is leading Teach the Future in Denmark, and is a member of the Network of Institutions and Leaders for Future Generations. He advances futures literacy, foresight and systems thinking with learners and leaders by embedding the disciplines across education, public policy, philanthropy, cultural, and intergovernmental institutions. From innovative educational programs and publications to organizational strategy and experience design, he emphasizes the vital role of art and culture in nurturing public imagination.
Kate Symondson
Kate, the Head of Philanthropy at the Symondson Foundation, sat on the Activate Panel.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
Nicole Parkes O’Callaghan
Nicole will sit on the Activate Panel. Nicole is a Marketing professional specialised in the area of Retail and Consumer Goods. She sat on the Activate Panel.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
Stuart McLaughlin
Stuart is Head of Advocacy at Google.org, and sat on the Activate panel. He is driving progress on global priorities at major multilateral gatherings. He convenes key stakeholders to leverage AI's potential for positive impact, particularly in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Previously, he spearheaded Google's corporate philanthropy in Online Safety in EMEA, collaborating with organizations to support safe technology adoption and led Employee Giving and Volunteering. Prior to Google, Stuart was a management consultant with Accenture and Cap Gemini and also led Business to Arts, where he co-founded Fund It. Stuart is an experienced leader in leveraging AI for positive social impact, with an understanding of the potential and challenges of AI within a responsible framework.
Sean Coughlan
Sean host our Innovate Panel. Spanning both the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors, Sean’s experience includes Director of the To Zero initiative to end child sexual violence in a generation (to-zero.org), Executive Director of the Human Dignity Foundation, Chief Executive of Boards.ie and Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland. Seán has served on a number of boards and working groups including the Advisory Board of INTERPOL’s Fight Against Child Sexual Exploitation Initiative, the Board of the European Venture Philanthropy Association and the Board of Trustees of Airfield Estate. Seán is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin.
Louise McElvaney
Louise sat on the Innovate panel. Louise is Chief Human Resources Officer at Learning Pool, the Derry head quartered workplace learning technology company. Louise is part of the founding team that has grown the business from a kitchen table start-up in 2006 to a global provider of learning solutions for some of the world’s biggest brands and employing 450 people around the world.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Darren Ryan
Darren is a Board member of Philanthropy Ireland and was our MC for the Philanthropy Symposium. He provides philanthropy consultancy, coaching and strategy development for leaders of non-profits. He was previously the CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland and Director Ireland for The Ireland Funds. He is currently on the board of Philanthropy Ireland and is a Founding Director of SERI (Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland).
Nicklas Larsen
Nicklas from the Copenhagen Institute of Future Studies hosted the 'Collaborate' interactive session at the Symposium. Nicklas is a driven and creative futures and foresight specialist, educator, and advocate. He provides learners and leaders with the tools to approach systemic change, promote intergenerational fairness, foster international partnerships, and influence policymaking. He is the UNESCO Co-Chair in Futures Capabilities, a Senior Advisor heading Arts and Culture, and a board member at the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies. Additionally, he serves as Faculty at Parsons School of Design in Paris, he is leading Teach the Future in Denmark, and is a member of the Network of Institutions and Leaders for Future Generations. He advances futures literacy, foresight and systems thinking with learners and leaders by embedding the disciplines across education, public policy, philanthropy, cultural, and intergovernmental institutions. From innovative educational programs and publications to organizational strategy and experience design, he emphasizes the vital role of art and culture in nurturing public imagination.
Kate Symondson
Kate, the Head of Philanthropy at the Symondson Foundation, sat on the Activate Panel.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
Nicole Parkes O’Callaghan
Nicole will sit on the Activate Panel. Nicole is a Marketing professional specialised in the area of Retail and Consumer Goods. She sat on the Activate Panel.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
Stuart McLaughlin
Stuart is Head of Advocacy at Google.org, and sat on the Activate panel. He is driving progress on global priorities at major multilateral gatherings. He convenes key stakeholders to leverage AI's potential for positive impact, particularly in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Previously, he spearheaded Google's corporate philanthropy in Online Safety in EMEA, collaborating with organizations to support safe technology adoption and led Employee Giving and Volunteering. Prior to Google, Stuart was a management consultant with Accenture and Cap Gemini and also led Business to Arts, where he co-founded Fund It. Stuart is an experienced leader in leveraging AI for positive social impact, with an understanding of the potential and challenges of AI within a responsible framework.
Sean Coughlan
Sean host our Innovate Panel. Spanning both the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors, Sean’s experience includes Director of the To Zero initiative to end child sexual violence in a generation (to-zero.org), Executive Director of the Human Dignity Foundation, Chief Executive of Boards.ie and Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland. Seán has served on a number of boards and working groups including the Advisory Board of INTERPOL’s Fight Against Child Sexual Exploitation Initiative, the Board of the European Venture Philanthropy Association and the Board of Trustees of Airfield Estate. Seán is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin.
Louise McElvaney
Louise sat on the Innovate panel. Louise is Chief Human Resources Officer at Learning Pool, the Derry head quartered workplace learning technology company. Louise is part of the founding team that has grown the business from a kitchen table start-up in 2006 to a global provider of learning solutions for some of the world’s biggest brands and employing 450 people around the world.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Darren Ryan
Darren is a Board member of Philanthropy Ireland and was our MC for the Philanthropy Symposium. He provides philanthropy consultancy, coaching and strategy development for leaders of non-profits. He was previously the CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland and Director Ireland for The Ireland Funds. He is currently on the board of Philanthropy Ireland and is a Founding Director of SERI (Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland).
Nicklas Larsen
Nicklas from the Copenhagen Institute of Future Studies hosted the 'Collaborate' interactive session at the Symposium. Nicklas is a driven and creative futures and foresight specialist, educator, and advocate. He provides learners and leaders with the tools to approach systemic change, promote intergenerational fairness, foster international partnerships, and influence policymaking. He is the UNESCO Co-Chair in Futures Capabilities, a Senior Advisor heading Arts and Culture, and a board member at the Copenhagen Institute for Futures Studies. Additionally, he serves as Faculty at Parsons School of Design in Paris, he is leading Teach the Future in Denmark, and is a member of the Network of Institutions and Leaders for Future Generations. He advances futures literacy, foresight and systems thinking with learners and leaders by embedding the disciplines across education, public policy, philanthropy, cultural, and intergovernmental institutions. From innovative educational programs and publications to organizational strategy and experience design, he emphasizes the vital role of art and culture in nurturing public imagination.
Kate Symondson
Kate, the Head of Philanthropy at the Symondson Foundation, sat on the Activate Panel.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
She joined Alexander Square Partners in 2021, defining the architecture and vision of the Foundation, connecting with a community of philanthropists, and building relationships with charities.
Kate’s background is in academia, earning her PhD in English Literature at King’s College London, where she also taught undergraduates. She has a sprawling career as a writer of academic, educational and cultural pieces, as well as working as a freelance communications consultant for a number of socially and community-minded organisations. Alongside her role at ASP, she runs cultural courses for adults that explore the complex histories of cultural phenomena through literature.
When she’s not immersing herself in a swimming pool or a book, Kate loves diving into London’s rich culture of art, theatre, cinema, and old pubs.
Nicole Parkes O’Callaghan
Nicole will sit on the Activate Panel. Nicole is a Marketing professional specialised in the area of Retail and Consumer Goods. She sat on the Activate Panel.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
The Parkes Family's charitable activities span a number of initiatives in which Nicole has supported since 2016. In 2019, they partnered with Rethink Ireland on multiple regional funds including the Ignite Fund, Ignite Mid West Fund, Impact Fund Munster 2022 , 2023, 2024 and 2025 . The personal family money donated to these funds has been matched by the Irish Government from the Dormant Accounts Fund plus the funds receive a tax rebate directly from the Irish Revenue Commissioners, at circa 31% .
The family focus is on supporting smaller charities and social enterprises within our diverse communities and enhancing community well-being, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development across the country, with a specific focus on the Mid-West and Munster region.
Nicole's background is in Marketing, with a Bachelor of Commerce from University College Cork and a Masters Degree from UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School.
Stuart McLaughlin
Stuart is Head of Advocacy at Google.org, and sat on the Activate panel. He is driving progress on global priorities at major multilateral gatherings. He convenes key stakeholders to leverage AI's potential for positive impact, particularly in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Previously, he spearheaded Google's corporate philanthropy in Online Safety in EMEA, collaborating with organizations to support safe technology adoption and led Employee Giving and Volunteering. Prior to Google, Stuart was a management consultant with Accenture and Cap Gemini and also led Business to Arts, where he co-founded Fund It. Stuart is an experienced leader in leveraging AI for positive social impact, with an understanding of the potential and challenges of AI within a responsible framework.
Sean Coughlan
Sean host our Innovate Panel. Spanning both the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors, Sean’s experience includes Director of the To Zero initiative to end child sexual violence in a generation (to-zero.org), Executive Director of the Human Dignity Foundation, Chief Executive of Boards.ie and Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland. Seán has served on a number of boards and working groups including the Advisory Board of INTERPOL’s Fight Against Child Sexual Exploitation Initiative, the Board of the European Venture Philanthropy Association and the Board of Trustees of Airfield Estate. Seán is a graduate of Trinity College Dublin.
Louise McElvaney
Louise sat on the Innovate panel. Louise is Chief Human Resources Officer at Learning Pool, the Derry head quartered workplace learning technology company. Louise is part of the founding team that has grown the business from a kitchen table start-up in 2006 to a global provider of learning solutions for some of the world’s biggest brands and employing 450 people around the world.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Louise has been pivotal in cultivating a culture at Learning Pool that prioritises the team, and sets a gold standard in people development.
Under Louise's leadership, Learning Pool has been recognised as a Platinum Investors in People (IIP) company, secured a place on the 'Best Places to Work in the UK 2024' list, recognition as a top workplace for women, and achieving 'outstanding' employee engagement in the 'Great Places to Work' global initiative.
In 2022 Louise Co founded a charity trust called 5 Ten to help young people further their education and development ambitions. Since then 5 Ten has supported a number of young people to continue their third level education. The trust also sponsors numerous initiatives with early education providers to develop resilience and address mental health challenges among children and young people in the northwest.
Darren Ryan
Darren is a Board member of Philanthropy Ireland and was our MC for the Philanthropy Symposium. He provides philanthropy consultancy, coaching and strategy development for leaders of non-profits. He was previously the CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland and Director Ireland for The Ireland Funds. He is currently on the board of Philanthropy Ireland and is a Founding Director of SERI (Social Enterprise Republic of Ireland).
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