WINGS Forum 2026/PHOTO; AI
Leaders and practitioners across the global philanthropy sector have an opportunity to convene, reflect, and take practical action at the upcoming WINGSForum 2026, scheduled for September 28–30 in Montreal.
Now in its eighth edition, the forum will bring together approximately 400 participants from around the world, including philanthropy networks, community organisations, funders, and social impact leaders. Registration is currently open.
A Shift from Ideas to Action
Positioned as more than a traditional convening, this year’s forum centres on the theme “ACT: Activate, Collaborate, Transcend.”
The gathering aims to push beyond dialogue, urging participants to translate ideas into tangible, collective action.
Organisers describe the moment as one of urgency, shaped by global challenges such as inequality, climate pressures, and shifting geopolitical realities.
At the same time, they point to growing momentum in community-led approaches, solidarity movements, and new models of resource sharing.
WINGSForum 2026 is designed to respond to this dual reality, offering a space not only to reflect but to identify practical steps that can influence real-world outcomes.
The programme will be structured around three key pathways:
Activate – focusing on building shared purpose and courage within philanthropy, while encouraging organisations to reflect on their roles and the risks they are willing to take.
Collaborate – exploring how partnerships across sectors, including governments, businesses, and grassroots movements, can address complex challenges collectively.
Transcend – examining how philanthropy can move beyond siloed approaches by embracing ecosystem thinking, Indigenous perspectives, and community-led models of organising resources.
Together, these tracks aim to connect individual action with broader systems change, highlighting how decisions around power, funding, and partnerships shape long-term impact.
The forum will also feature plenary sessions, workshops, and interactive learning labs, alongside member-led discussions.
Organisers say the format is intended to encourage open dialogue, honest reflection, and the sharing of practical solutions emerging from different regions.
Participants will also have opportunities for personal reflection and connection, recognising the need for renewal and resilience among those working in the sector.
WINGSForum 2026 comes at a time when many philanthropic organisations are rethinking their roles amid disruptions in aid systems and increasing calls for locally led development.
The convening will highlight how power and resources can be distributed more equitably, with a strong emphasis on community leadership and accountability.
Indigenous and grassroots perspectives will be woven throughout the programme, offering alternative ways of organising and responding to global challenges.
Registration for WINGSForum 2026 is now open, with organisers encouraging early sign-ups from those interested in shaping the future of philanthropy through collective action.
For professionals working in philanthropy, development, and social impact, the forum presents an opportunity to engage with peers globally, exchange ideas, and contribute to a growing movement focused on practical, accountable change.
Registration is available until 30 April. Learn more and register: https://wingsforum.org/
Help us tell more untold stories of African Philanthropy!
To DONATE or Pledge: CLICK HERE
