3. Maryann Fernandez, Philanthropy Indaba, New York, NY, USA

I had the pleasure of meeting Maryann last year in Chiapas, Mexico. Maryann’s connection to Africa is a powerful one.  Similar to me, she left the corporate world and journeyed to Africa.  From there she went on to found Philanthropy Indaba, which is a unique company that takes individuals and families, who have the ability to mobilize resources, out of the boardroom and into the field through philanthropic journeys. Maryann’s team explore critical issues, conduct site visits to effective organizations, and meet with key thought-leaders on the ground, all wrapped within an exceptional travel experience.

While Philanthropy Indaba does not run its own philanthropic programs, it does connect traveling individuals with organizations (for and non-profit) on the ground that have a positive impact on local communities. The private discussions among the participants of her programs allow for greater contextual understanding of effective investment in the region, which the organization operates.  Philanthropy Indaba supports projects that are long term self sustaining solutions.

When asked if her trips might be considered depressing, Maryann answers:

“In South Africa, where we will be focusing on the HIV/AIDS pandemic, instead of being depressed, I am tremendously inspired. I can feel the effect that a concerned and dedicated group of philanthropists have made on this pandemic.  They were able to move the dial on this intractable issue, and now the models developed here, can be replicated in other parts of the world. Defeating this disease has entered into the realm of possibility.”

How can travelers help? Learn before you give!  Ask questions about the travel company’s connection to the project, what have people funded in the past, to what exactly your money will be applied, and who will confirm that. Also take some time to learn about why the situation exists? What other groups are working in the area and how the locals feel about that organization.  From afar, do some research on the issue, read some articles, find organizations that support that issue and have clear objectives and have a feedback loop to assess their success.  If you are interested in investing in reliable organizations and having an immersive travel experience, contact Maryann.

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