Andrew Chunilall
1. You have a wide range of spheres of influence and an ever increasing length and breadth of achievements. What are you most proud of as you reflect on them?
I began my career in philanthropy in 2007 working for a community foundation. At the time, certain conversations and topics were non-existent at philanthropic Board tables. This included building awareness of indigenous residential schools, acknowledging gender equity and the existence of racism within the field of philanthropy itself. I am deeply proud of the courage of my fellow philanthropic leaders in advancing these critical conversations over the past 10 years with their respective Boards and donors. What was once taboo is now part of the normal discourse within philanthropy itself and helps to move us all forward to a more inclusive and equitable Canada.
2.What is the biggest challengers you have faced and how did you address these?
Community Foundations of Canada has always believed in the power of working across sectors, including government, corporate and civil society. The belief stems from acknowledging that the most impactful effects on society is a result of multi-sector partnerships working in alignment. The challenges of working in a multi sector way during pandemic were especially difficult. The dynamism and creativity that comes from working together in a 100% virtual environment was overcome with trust, inherent goodwill and agreement on a common goal that was larger than any one organization.
3. As a self described disrupter what are some of the systemic changes that were needed that you are the architect of?
Philanthropy has had to stretch and challenge its own business models in recent years. Certain belief systems pertaining to perpetual endowments, traditional market investments, granting as a primary focus or an apprehension towards advocacy or partnership building has been self limiting. These frameworks for advancing social good have evolved and philanthropy has been optimizing impact with capital transfers, impact and responsible investing, more focus on government relations and deepening our relationships in community. At CFC, we continue to provide an impactful voice to advance systemic changes in these areas.
4. What is your vision for the philanthropic sector? How can we collaborate/forge partnerships to address 1-2 of Canadas persistent social problems viz child hunger housing?
The Canadian dream is becoming more challenging for younger Canadians and newcomers to name a few. There are many issues that stem from cost of living and wealth inequality. The promise of Canada is part of our fabric and what makes Canada so special and unique to the world. The promise being that no matter who you are, where you come from, with hard work and sacrifice, you have an opportunity for peace and prosperity. Philanthropy has a critical role in keeping the promise of Canada real and attainable for Canadians. Philanthropy can help foster belonging. Communities that are connected through common goals, where bonds deepen via relationships build resilience and grit to overcome our challenges.
5. Awareness of the charitable and nonprofit sectors contribution to community well being and resilience is not well recognized. How can we motivate the range of media to share the incredible stories of the sector?
Philanthropy has many wonderful stories to tell. We have decades of impact from coast to coast to coast. We have traditionally been great at delivering impact but weak on conveying our stories to Canadians in a way that generates excitement and engagement. We should not rely on third parties to tell our story, instead philanthropy should collectively build the much needed infrastructure to tell our own stories of impact and recognize the exceptional work of our donors, volunteers and organizations.