Giving Compass' Take:

• Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe at PSI, describes how the notion of Ubuntu, meaning "I am because we are," guides the philanthropic practices at the Motsepe Foundation.

• What are other donors using as inspiration for impact-driven outcomes? How can the idea of Ubuntu transfer to others? 

• Read more about Ubuntu from David Bonbright's series on mutual accountability. 

There is a word in the Nguni language called “Ubuntu,” which means, “I am because we are.” It is a spiritual concept that brings meaning to the burning sense of belonging each person feels and compels us to connect to our inner personal power for the benefit of others.

The Motsepe Foundation was established with this spirit, which we aim to instill amongst stakeholders locally, regionally and internationally.

A 2018 report by the World Bank Group found that an estimated $160 trillion of wealth is lost globally in lifetime earnings due to gender gaps. In sub-Saharan Africa, this figure is $2.5 trillion. In response to this financial inequality, the Motsepe Foundation advocates for gender-responsive budgeting initiatives which ensure that national budgets align to the needs of whole populations.

The Motsepe Foundation measures its impact through the strengthening of social cohesion and the liberation of women and girls. These both contribute to the creation of a truly prosperous society. With a focus on youth, the Foundation unlocks girls’ potential to achieve social, economic and political agency. Our programs ensure that there are more women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, math (STEM), social entrepreneurship and sports; we also work hard to make their voices heard in social and economic discourse.

Through local and global partnerships with the Department of Education of South Africa, Harvard Kennedy School, the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship, the Milken Institute, Maverick Collective and others, we aim to find creative solutions for societal change.

This change happens when the needs of women and girls are addressed.

In every community, and for each individual whose lives were touched by the Foundation, we see a circular motion of Ubuntu inspiring the empowerment of thousands of other people.

Read the full article about ubuntu by Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe at PSI.