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As uncertainty becomes a defining feature of global development, philanthropy is under increasing pressure to shift from long-term planning based on past trends to more adaptive, future-focused strategies.
A strategic foresight masterclass at the 10th East Africa Philanthropy Conference will explore how organisations can anticipate and navigate these shifts.
According to information shared by East Africa Philanthropy Network (EAPN), the masterclass, titled Strategic Foresight for Philanthropy: Anticipating and Navigating Futures, is designed to equip sector leaders with practical tools to respond to uncertainty and complexity.
The masterclass will be co-hosted by Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, LongView Consult, and EAPN.
It is expected to bring together foundation leaders, chief executives, programme heads, and strategy directors responsible for positioning their organisations for a future that is increasingly uncertain.
Shifting Beyond Traditional Planning
Strategic foresight is gaining traction within philanthropy as organisations confront complex and unpredictable challenges, from climate shocks to shifting funding landscapes.
Traditional planning approaches often based on historical data, are proving less effective in navigating these uncertainties.
Instead, foresight offers a structured approach to exploring multiple possible futures.
The masterclass is expected to introduce participants to methods for identifying early signals of change and distinguishing meaningful trends from background noise.
These tools will allow organisations to test their current strategies against different future scenarios, helping them remain flexible in the face of disruption.
EAPN indicates that the masterclass will also examine how decisions about the future are made within the sector, including who gets to shape priorities and strategies an issue increasingly linked to equity and inclusion in global philanthropy.
From Frameworks to Practice
The masterclass is designed as a hands-on learning experience, moving beyond theory to practical application.
Participants are expected to engage directly with foresight frameworks developed by Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors, including tools that translate foresight into operational strategy.
According to EAPN, attendees will gain practical experience in embedding foresight into institutional processes such as strategic planning cycles, board engagement, and programme design.
The masterclass will also aim to build participants’ confidence to facilitate similar exercises within their own organisations.
This applied focus reflects a broader need within the sector to strengthen internal capacity.
As philanthropic institutions face increasing demand alongside constrained resources, the ability to anticipate change and allocate resources strategically is becoming more critical.
Framing the Future of Philanthropy
The inclusion of the strategic foresight masterclass reflects wider shifts within the philanthropy sector, where resilience, systems thinking, and long-term impact are becoming central to organisational strategy.
The 10th East Africa Philanthropy Conference, organised by East Africa Philanthropy Network, is scheduled to take place from June 16 to 20, 2026, at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa.
The conference is expected to convene over 800 delegates from more than 30 countries, including philanthropy leaders, development practitioners, policymakers, and funders.
Held under the theme “Anchoring Systems in an Era of Transition,” the gathering will explore how the sector can respond to shifting global dynamics while strengthening locally led solutions and partnerships.
Within this context, the masterclass is expected to contribute to ongoing discussions on how organisations can remain relevant and effective in a rapidly changing world.
Rather than offering fixed solutions, it highlights a broader shift toward preparedness, adaptability, and the capacity to navigate multiple possible futures.
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