What a difference a decade makes – especially the last several. The world seems to be changing at an ever-faster pace, making it more important than ever to connect with younger generations if we want to understand the future we are building together. This was clear to me during a recent conversation with Spandana Vemavarapu, a Graduate Research Assistant at the Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy. Over coffee, we discussed her views on the future of philanthropy and the role her generation may play in shaping it.
Sharing a cup of coffee or tea has long been a cherished ritual, offering an intimate space for connection amid our busy lives. This simple act, even when done virtually, encourages us to slow down, savor the moment, and truly listen. I highly recommend grabbing a cup of your favorite warm beverage, finding someone younger, older, or simply different from yourself, and sharing a present moment to learn more about each other. You might be surprised by the insights that emerge.
During my Coffee Chat with Spandana, I was inspired by the fresh perspectives she shared. Reflecting on my own educational journey, I noticed how much social progress has been made. In the 1990s, conversations often revolved around “globalization,” using terms like “developing countries,” which implied that non-Western nations needed to change to contribute to the global economy. Today, we use more inclusive language, such as “global south” or “global majority,” signaling a shift in how we view philanthropy and recognize the value and contributions of people outside the Western world.
This shift is especially evident in our discussions about gender. While there is still work to be done, the use of gender as a lens, the clearer articulation of gender equity, and its heightened attention in both academia and philanthropy represent significant achievements.
As Spandana shared more about community-based approaches, collaboration, and engagement with local populations, I was encouraged by how central these ideas are to her—and hopefully her generation. The role women play in communities, along with data showing the critical influence of women on household education and health, has led to substantial changes in how we work to reduce barriers and uplift women. A focus on what communities can achieve for themselves is crucial. This also reminded me of the importance of exploring my own community of philanthropy practitioners and making time to connect with a variety of voices.
The conversation was also a refreshing break from the often-serious nature of work. I invite you to grab a cup of coffee (or tea!) and join us for our next Coffee Chat with my colleague Christa Lane Hooper and Leslie Young, a graduate student at Grand Valley State University, on November 19, 2024.
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