These detailed case studies share practical learnings from nonprofits improving the lives of those in need across the Middle East, and demonstrate how strategic philanthropy can deliver tangible impact.

Al Ghurair, chairman of the AGFE, said the platform was a valuable resource to inspire and encourage donors to think strategically about their giving.   

“Our collaborative work encourages sharing experiences, lessons learnt and values,” he said. “These excellent case studies showcase how quality giving approaches can have successful results."

He added: “Strategic philanthropy is not new to the Arab world and I am confident that the knowledge and experience shared amongst my peers in the Arab philanthropy space will inspire more giving, using an approach that is based on successful business practices.” 

Robert Rosen, director of philanthropic partnerships at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, said: “Project Inspired is an excellent initiative that spotlights some of the region’s most impactful nonprofits and philanthropic initiatives to increase awareness about their efforts and those they are seeking to serve.

"It also spotlights leading philanthropists from across the Middle East, enabling them to share the successes, setbacks and learnings from their giving journeys, and inspire others to give with more impact."

Rosen said he hoped Project Inspired would add to the discussion and debate of the role of philanthropy in the Middle East. "All too often these regional voices are missing from the global dialogue on philanthropy."

Participating philanthropist Omar Al-Qattan, who supports arts and education in Palestine and the Arab diaspora through the A M Qattan foundation, said: "There is great value in peer-to-peer learning for philanthropists. I truly believe there is a lot to be gained from an open discussion about what works, what may not, and how we can complement each other with what we do.

"I am proud of the work that the foundation does, and I hope that by taking part in this project, we will be able to inspire other philanthropists within the region and beyond."

Khalid Al Zayani, chairman of the Bahrain-based Rashid Al Zayani Charity Foundation, said he hoped the platform would drive new discussion around the role of philanthropy in the Arab region.

“I wanted to share the experiences of our foundation and hopefully inspire others to support and empower those in need,” he said. “Collaboration is an important part of philanthropy, but unfortunately, in this region, we see a lot of duplication because we lack open discussion about who is doing what, where.” – PA

Visit Project Inspired to learn more about how impactful philanthropy is supporting sustainable change in the Arab region and beyond.