IPASA 'Systems Change for Philanthropy' Learning Series

Please join your fellow IPASA members in the 2^nd webinar in our Transforming Funding Practice Learning Series: Systems Change for Philanthropy.

This webinar, Delving Deeper into Systems Change for Philanthropy, will build on the introductory session and help participants explore:

• How to identify leverage points and opportunities for meaningful change within complex systems. 

• The evolving role of funders as convenors, catalysts, and partners in systemic change processes.
  

Practical ways to apply systems thinking to funding decisions, strategy development, and collaboration.

“Systems change is not about fixing a problem - it is about shifting the conditions that keep producing that problem. This represents a fundamental shift form reacting to symptoms, to understanding root caused; from isolated interventions to working across interconnected forces; from short-term outputs to long-term change trajectories.” – Vikāra Institute

This learning series will demonstrate how funders can enable real sustainable change through addressing the underlying systems that shape development outcomes.  Through the sharing of practical insights, tools, and peer learning opportunities we will explore how systems thinking can strengthen funding strategies and increase their impact. The interactive webinar series will look at:

• How do we identify the root causes behind the challenges we seek to address?

• Where are the opportunities for philanthropy to catalyse wider and more sustainable change?

• How can funders work more effectively with other actors to influence systems and achieve greater impact?

• What practical approaches can help foundations strengthen collaboration, innovation, and long-term outcomes?

Speakers:

Margie Brand: Founder and Executive Director, Vikāra Institute. See more here.  

Mike Field: Senior Systems Thinking Specialist, Vikāra Institute. See more here.

WEBINAR SERIES AND MASTERCLASS DATES

• Webinar 1

16 April 2026 | 14h00 - 15h30

Introduction to Systems Change for Philanthropy. Read the Webinar Summary here. 

• Webinar 2

29 July 2026 | 14h00 - 15h30

Delving Deeper into Systems Change for Philanthropy

• Webinar 3

26 August 2026 | 14h00 - 15h30

Applying Systems Thinking to Funding Strategy and Practice

• Webinar 4

16 September 2026 | 14h00 - 15h30

Collaboration, Influence and Catalysing Systemic Change

• In-Person Masterclass

17 November 2026 | 14h00 - 17h00

Kelvin Grove, Cape Town

This in-person Masterclass will build on the ideas explored during the webinar series and provide an opportunity for deeper discussion, practical application, and peer exchange among funders. Participants are encouraged to attend the full series to gain the greatest benefit, but registration for individual webinars and the Masterclass will also be available. Attendance at the webinars is not a prerequisite for participation in the Masterclass.

This learning series is delivered in partnership with Vikāra Institute and made possible through the generous support of our members Standard Bank Tutuwa Foundation and the Anglo American Foundation.