Hello from our CEO • Winter 2023

The cold weather arriving in Sydney has snapped us quickly into winter mode. Still, the many activities around capital and capability and market-building outings keep us warm. Here are the various layers of impact we have been involved with and are championing:

Engagement Team Initiatives

There’s no slowing down for our Engagement Team this season. Their dedication has been pivotal in our collaborative work with Kandanga Farm Store, reinforcing Sefa’s commitment to environmental sustainability and our drive for systematic change. Through our partnership with Sustainable Table, we are joining hands with an umbrella that, like us, seeks to support change-makers – aiming to revolutionise Australia’s farming, food, and fibre systems. We’re also thrilled to welcome Anna Robertson to the Sefa team, strengthening our capability-building resources.

Housing Advocacy

Continuing our crucial advocacy for older women’s access to affordable, safe housing - there is positive energy amongst the Sefa team about where we can go next in our work, and the drive within our team inspires me. We’re envisioning a future where access to secure housing isn’t a privilege but a norm, and we’re eager to bring this vision to life together with you.

Sefa Partnerships

Our colleagues at Sefa Partnerships have successfully supported the first Paul Ramsay Foundation Growth Incubator Cohort through two customised Sprints focusing on essential issues around impact and business model. We’re also delighted to introduce Alice Brennan as our new Growth Incubator Manager, who will provide dedicated relationship support to the teams and the overall program. Expect more updates from Sefa Partnerships in the coming weeks.

Impact Institute’s Social Impact Summit

Recently, I had the opportunity to join the Impact Club for their Amplify gathering in Melbourne. It was an excellent opportunity to hear and reflect on different approaches to unlocking capital for good. Next, I look forward to the Impact Institute’s inaugural Social Impact Summit from 3-4 July. This platform serves to bring the S in ESG to the forefront, discussing how capability, partnerships, and funding intersect to propel sustainable systemic change. We’re pleased to extend a special offer for our supporters and partners for this event with discounted tickets using the code “#SIS2023HE”.

In Other News

Our Social Finance Team is hosting ‘How do we pay for it’ webinars with partners to demystify debt for purpose-driven organisations (please get in touch with Tanya Wong to find out more) and we are gearing up with new ideas and plans that resonate with our purpose. I encourage you to follow our progress on LinkedIn.

Despite the winter solstice, the warmth within the Sefa family is palpable. I extend this warmth to you with sincere appreciation for your continued support.

With best wishes,

Hanna