Dear Colleagues,
Today marks the close of the Skoll World Forum, a global gathering of social entrepreneurs and changemakers committed to advancing bold solutions to pressing global problems. Held annually in Oxford, the Forum attracts leaders across sectors to share ideas, forge partnerships, and accelerate systemic change.
In Oxford, people with shared values gathered—not just at the Forum, but in spaces it inspires—to reconnect, be inspired, and reflect on how we address growing threats to women, girls, and gender-expansive people worldwide.
Rather than despair, we found solidarity.
Collective Future Fund, me too., Justice for Migrant Women, FreeFrom, G4GC, the Children’s Rights Innovation Fund, and the Women’s Funding Network co-hosted a strategy day focused on strengthening global efforts to end gender-based violence. Together, we affirmed the truth that those most impacted by violence are also those driving change. Yet Collective Future Fund’s data shows that only 1.6% of philanthropy addresses gender-based violence, with even less reaching women and girls of color or trans communities.
In her wisdom, WFN President and CEO, Elizabeth Barajas-Román, stressed the importance of having WFN members represented at this pivotal gathering. At our strategy table, we discussed the role of intermediaries, the need for better coordination, and the imperative to evolve our structures to embrace diverse experiences.
One powerful question shifted the room: what can we rely on beyond funding? The answer was clear—each other.
As I approach six months as Director of Philanthropy at WFN, I’ve witnessed the strength of our community. WFN members consistently choose connection, collaboration, and transformation. We don’t just survive; we grow stronger and more resilient.
As we look toward Feminist Funded ’25, let’s hold onto this spirit of solidarity. Together, we are ready. Together, we are unstoppable.
In solidarity,
Chantal Bonitto
Women’s Funding Network
Director of Philanthropy