People love stories. Narratives illuminate experiences that lodge deep in our memories, broaden and deepen our knowledge, and show us ways of being and understanding that other forms of communication simply cannot.

Not-for-profit organisations have long appreciated the power of stories to share the impact of their work. Now, many philanthropists see a role for themselves to invest in the very act of storytelling itself. From supporting independent journalism to social impact filmmaking, meet a group of APS clients and friends who are passionate about ensuring important stories don’t go untold.

Leslie Falkiner-Rose, Ruffin Falkiner Foundation

‘When facts alone don’t change people’s minds, stories can,’ says Leslie Falkiner-Rose, APS client and media philanthropist. As a non-fiction author, with a background in journalism, storytelling is close to her heart. ‘We invest in public interest journalism because we want to strengthen democracy. Storytelling is a critical part of that.’

Leslie’s passion has led the Ruffin Falkiner Foundation to fund organisations including the Public Interest Journalism Initiative (research and advocacy), PS Media (hyper-local news), and the Economic Media Centre, which seeks to broaden the representation of spokespeople in the Australian media. She is also part of Mannifera, a collective of funders working towards a more robust democracy and fairer Australia.

‘Journalism is the first draft of history. We need strong, quality reportage to watchdog decision-makers and delve into issues critical to how we live.’

Clare and Gabrielle Davidson, Clotho Foundation

A belief that generating unbiased information about environmental issues will increase accountability led Clare and Gabrielle Davidson, directors of the Clotho Foundation, to support dedicated environmental reporting via the Australian Associated Press (AAP).

‘It is also important to us that they [AAP] promote media diversity, given the influence of a narrow selection of news sources and the power of tailored social media feeds, which can create an echo chamber,’ Clare says.  She sees AAP playing a significant role in servicing regional Australian media.

‘We believe that stories are incredibly powerful in bringing people together, but also in stirring and perpetuating division. News stories that are objective, well-researched, and broadly representative are crucial for people to better understand each other and the world.’

Christina Roberts, Roberts Family Foundation

‘To share a story, there is nothing like film. I love this medium as a way to connect with an audience emotively,’ says Christina Roberts.

Along with her family, Christina recently co-funded the making of a documentary feature film, How to Thrive, through Documentary Australia. The film project will explore individual journeys to mental health and wellbeing through the practice of positive psychology.

A complementary impact campaign will provide resources to the community, workplaces and schools to build better systems for wellbeing and connect audiences to the How to Thrive Movement.

‘I think [films] connect us viscerally to build empathy and connection, and that’s what the world needs right now.’

Malinda Wink

If there’s one person who understands the power of collaboration in storytelling and philanthropy, it’s Malinda Wink, global director of Good Pitch. Her organisation brings together philanthropists, documentary filmmakers, policymakers, campaigners and NGOs to partner on leading social and environmental issues.

‘Collaboration between independent storytellers and diverse stakeholders can serve as a powerful tool for change,’ shared Malinda.

‘Time and time again, I’ve witnessed how engaging stories can offer advocates in the NGO sector an opportunity to be heard by an audience that has a better understanding of issue complexity, is motivated to be involved, and knows what is at stake.’

‘As that collaboration builds in trust and sophistication, the pooling of resources, networks, connections, and a coordinated strategy can be powerfully deployed to shift consciousness, change behaviour and influence the policy environment.’

Start your story

Speak to our team if you would like to know more about supporting stories or storytellers with your philanthropy. We can also facilitate introductions to any of the organisations mentioned in this article.