This is the second blog of a 3 part series, written by NCF Charity Partner- Future Black Female - in recognition of Black Philanthropy Month.
Guest Blogger: Mohammed Adam, Future Black Female Staff
Growing up in Sudan, I witnessed the grim consequences of violence. My community was devastated, loved ones lost, and our home reduced to ruins. Every day was a struggle for survival, with constant fear of attacks. These memories left lasting marks on me but also taught me the remarkable strength of grassroots philanthropy during extreme crises.
In the Sudanese refugee camps, philanthropy was the spirit of comradeship. Our teachers, refugees themselves, continued to teach us despite the dangers and without pay, striving to create a sense of normalcy. Farmers, even when their resources were stretched, fed entire camps so that no one went to bed hungry. My family took in over ten different families during the war, providing them with safety, food, and basic needs.
This experience reshaped my understanding of philanthropy. I realized that real philanthropy is more than financial contributions. It’s about being there for others when they are most vulnerable, giving time, knowledge, and support even in the worst of times. In our camp, giving was deliberate, a way to uplift each other and empower the community amidst constant danger.
This is why Black Philanthropy Month is so important. It does more than change the conversation; it repositions the power within giving relationships. In Afrocentric cultures, philanthropy goes beyond writing a check—it’s about spending time with someone, humbling oneself to truly connect until you become like family. I recall my parents taking in other children, giving what we had to those in need. Philanthropy extended the bounds of family and home to include those who needed both.
Applying this mindset in Canada means giving in ways that enrich rather than deplete you. Volunteering your skills, for instance, can hone them further, and offering a humanizing touch helps everyone grow. Creating communities where everyone has a voice ensures that no one is left behind.
Decolonizing philanthropy involves embracing grassroots support models and moving away from top-down approaches, where distant donors make decisions for communities they barely know. It’s about empowering those most affected by adversity to have a say in how resources are used. True philanthropy is guided by empathy and a commitment to shared human dignity.
Reflecting on these experiences, I realize that philanthropy’s essence lies in collective strength and mutual support. It’s not just about what is given but how it is given—with respect, empathy, and understanding. As we decolonize philanthropy, we must remember that the most profound acts of giving come from the heart, driven by a genuine understanding of the struggles and hopes of those we aim to help.
About the Author
Mohammed Adam is a Community Engagement Coordinator at Future Black Female who leads impactful projects aimed at fostering social change and empowerment. He develops and implements initiatives addressing gender-based violence and intercultural collaboration, while also recruiting, mentoring, and training youth advocates to enhance their leadership and community impact.
