Discover how private wealth advisers can increase impact for young philanthropists by integrating activism, supporting diverse causes, and leveraging social media.
The next generation of philanthropists, aged 18-35, is redefining charitable giving by leveraging their influence to drive social change. Young givers are not only donating money but also blending traditional philanthropy with activism to boost impact. For private wealth advisers, to connect with young philanthropists and understand this shift is crucial for guiding clients toward meaningful philanthropic strategies that resonate deeply with this new generation. This article will explore how young philanthropists intertwine activism with giving, the diverse causes they support, and how corporations can align with these trends to enhance their social responsibility programmes.
Young philanthropists are leveraging their public platforms to advocate for causes they care about. For instance, British rapper and philanthropist Stormzy addresses racial inequality and supports education for underprivileged youth through his #Merky Foundation by funding scholarships and educational programmes. This demonstrates how philanthropy can be intertwined with advocacy to drive social change.
It’s important for private wealth advisers to encourage their clients to utilise their influence and networks alongside their financial contributions. This integrated approach can significantly amplify their impact. It can also help create a lasting legacy of social change.
The causes that attract young philanthropists reflect their diverse backgrounds and interests. Which can include key causes such as climate change, social justice and mental health. This generation is passionate about affecting change in ways that align with their values and experiences, driving them to support initiatives that resonate personally.
The next generation of philanthropists often align their philanthropic efforts with causes that resonate with their values and interests. This not only ensures long-term commitment but also enhances personal satisfaction and public perception (as they are seen as genuine and credible).
One example, Greta Thunberg’s Fridays for Future movement has mobilised millions around the globe to demand urgent action on climate change, showcasing the power of youth activism in addressing environmental issues. Similarly, Marcus Rashford’s advocacy against child food poverty in the UK highlights the critical importance of economic justice and racial equality, inspiring many to take action within their communities. Additionally, Billie Eilish has emerged as a vocal advocate for mental health, calling for better resources and support systems for those struggling with mental health issues. Together, these examples illustrate how young philanthropists are not only passionate about their causes but are also leveraging their platforms to drive significant social change.
Young influencers resonate deeply with their audiences due to their authenticity. Which drives greater engagement and impact. Their personal stories and genuine commitment to causes make their philanthropy relatable and inspiring. For example, Priscilla Chan, through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, has made significant strides in education and healthcare. And her background as a paediatrician adds credibility to her philanthropic work. England rugby player Maro Itoje exemplifies this authenticity with his dedication to providing young people with access to education. His involvement with charities, including the creation of his own, the Pearl Fund, which honours his Nigerian heritage, corroborates the genuine impact of his work.
Young influencers are leveraging platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram to mobilise their followers and create meaningful change. The vast reach and high engagement on these platforms can significantly amplify their philanthropic efforts. For example, Hannah Bronfman uses her social media presence to promote health and wellness, advocating for mental health awareness and healthy living. Her authenticity and genuine commitment resonate with her audience, driving substantial engagement. Increasingly, young people are sharing their philanthropic journeys on social media, engaging with followers, and building communities around their causes. This not only enhances visibility but also inspires others to contribute.
Collaborations with brands, nonprofits, and other influencers can significantly enhance philanthropic efforts by combining resources, expertise, and networks for greater impact. Evan Spiegel leverages the Snap Foundation to partner with various organisations that support arts, education, and social justice initiatives. These collaborations expand the reach and effectiveness of his philanthropic work, demonstrating the power of teamwork in driving meaningful change.
By connecting with young philanthropists, advisers will see that they are increasingly demonstrating a long-term commitment to their chosen causes, moving beyond one-off donations or short-lived campaigns. This sustained effort fosters lasting impact and systemic change. For example, Alexander Soros has dedicated himself to human rights and environmental sustainability through his work with the Open Society Foundations. This generation views philanthropy as a long-term endeavour rather than a series of sporadic donations. By adopting a strategic and sustained approach, they can drive more meaningful and lasting change.
Young philanthropists are harnessing their influence and platforms to drive social change through a seamless blend of advocacy and direct action. By recognising this private wealth advisers can steer their clients toward impactful and authentic philanthropic strategies, that not only enhance social responsibility but also resonate with the values of younger givers.
To maximise this potential, advisers should encourage clients to integrate activism with philanthropy, support diverse causes that align with their beliefs, leverage social media to engage their audiences, explore collaborative opportunities, and commit to long-term philanthropic strategies. By adopting these approaches, advisers can empower their clients to make a meaningful difference while connecting with the evolving interests of young philanthropists.
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