In this episode of the Women Who Give podcast, host Alex Townsend speaks with Elizabeth Thomson, a Canadian solicitor, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. Elizabeth shares her journey into philanthropy, her experiences with the Amber Foundation, and her commitment to empowering ethnic minority women through scholarships and mentorship programs. The conversation explores the definition of philanthropy, the importance of networks, and the barriers women face in the philanthropic sector. Elizabeth emphasizes the need for education and mentorship in charitable giving, drawing parallels between running a charity and a business. In this conversation, Elizabeth L Thomson shares her journey from running a charity out of her apartment to establishing impactful programs that empower women and address community needs. She emphasizes the importance of accountability in philanthropy, the need for inclusivity in Hong Kong, and the dynamics of family decision-making in their charitable endeavors. Elizabeth offers valuable advice for aspiring philanthropists and discusses future aspirations for expanding their charitable impact.

Elizabeth and The Amber Foundation are currently seeking summer internship opportunities, group leaders for their Health Sciences, STEM, and Finance groups, and venue sponsors for their workshops. Anyone interested in supporting the future of ethnic minority young women in Hong Kong is encouraged to get in touch. https://www.theamberfoundation.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Philanthropy and Elizabeth Thompson

02:48 Defining Philanthropy: Elizabeth's Perspective

04:45 Early Experiences and the Birth of the Amber Foundation

08:57 Empowering Ethnic Minority Women through Scholarships

11:48 Workplace Preparation and Mentorship Programs

15:55 The Role of Networks in Philanthropy

17:10 The Need for Mentorship in Philanthropy

18:31 Barriers for Women in Philanthropy

21:15 Lessons Learned in Running a Charity

21:29 From Apartment to Charity: The Journey Begins

24:39 The Importance of Accountability in Philanthropy

27:45 Inclusivity and Community Engagement in Hong Kong

30:14 Family Dynamics in Philanthropic Decision-Making

34:20 Advice for Aspiring Philanthropists

37:10 Future Aspirations and Expanding Impact