Given our fixed timeframe until 2045, we prioritise addressing urgent crises today while investing in long-term partnerships to ensure our work endures, leaving a legacy that continues to foster positive change well beyond 2045.
Our guiding principles
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Lasting change
We are committed to fostering enduring partnerships with the organisations we fund, recognising that sustained support leads to lasting impact. We seek to empower partners that embrace a human rights based approach and are dedicated to strengthening their sustainability and effectiveness.
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Maximised impact
We are committed to managing our resources effectively and efficiently, ensuring they are directed toward the problems we aim to address, to those most in need and to generate the greatest possible impact. We believe that effective grant-making requires both rigorous due diligence as well as a willingness to take risks.
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Diversity and gender equality
We value diversity and gender equality and are committed to a diverse, inclusive and harassment-free workplace, which extends to all interactions with our partners and third parties. We are committed to promoting equitable opportunities and outcomes for all genders and to addressing deeply rooted gender discrimination. We collaborate with partners who share this commitment.
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Integrity
We act with integrity and conduct all our duties in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. We take a zero-tolerance approach to engaging in any form of corruption, favouritism, asset misappropriation or any other form of criminal conduct.
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Localisation
We are dedicated to strengthening local ecosystems by empowering local actors and organisations, enhancing their agency, autonomy, and leadership, while respecting their right to define and drive their own efforts. We recognise local organisations as those founded, governed, and led by individuals from the Global South, with deep roots in their local context and culture.
To support this commitment, we will allocate at least 50% of funding directly to local organisations and intermediaries. Additionally, we will actively promote equitable partnerships between INGOs, national, and local actors, fostering transformative and principles collaborations. A partner’s commitment to localisation will be a key factor in partnership development and grant renewals.
The founder, Irène M. Staehelin-Schindler, was an open-minded and passionately active person. As an anthropologist, she was actively involved with Human Rights Watch, advocating for human and women’s rights. With a great interest in indigenous peoples, she initiated and supported the culture and training centre for the San people, !Khwa ttu, near Cape Town, with enormous personal commitment over many years.
Our team remains small but diverse, with specialist knowledge in the impact areas. Our team currently consists of:
Our Board members were personally asked by Irène M. Staehelin-Schindler to take up this responsibility. The Foundation Board is composed of: