International Day of Charity 2024

Today, 5 September, marks the United Nations (UN) International Day of Charity, a day dedicated to celebrating the individuals and organisations that make a significant difference in the lives of others. It’s also an opportunity for each of us to reflect on how we can contribute to making the world a better place through acts of kindness and philanthropy.

Philanthropy is at the heart of what we do at Regent Global. Nearly a year ago, I took on the role of Chair of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Sustainability 70 Steering Group (SG70). My life and business partner, Tharshiny, who is also the joint CEO of Regent Global, is an active member of SG70, and our company provides administrative support for this noble initiative. Each year, Regent Global champions peace by fostering mutual understanding among diverse groups through our Global Unity Forum.

Earlier this year, we launched Public Learn, a platform designed to connect Sri Lankan citizens to free educational courses, including exclusive access to courses typically available only to the Regent Global community. This initiative was our gift to the people of Sri Lanka, aimed at empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills to improve their lives. The International Day of Charity reminds us all of the countless opportunities to make a difference. I encourage everyone to seek out organisations working in areas that resonate with you and find ways to contribute.

This year, the UN is focusing on global solidarity to eradicate poverty. At Regent Global, we are proud to contribute to this cause. From enabling individuals who otherwise wouldn’t have access to higher education to pursue degrees at Regent College London, to creating high-quality jobs in Asia, we are committed to making a positive impact. The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award has empowered millions of young people in over 130 countries and territories, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to support their communities and succeed in life. Our work with SG70 will extend these opportunities to even more young people globally.

Later this month, I will be in Sri Lanka to promote Public Learn to university students. My hope is that this platform will help many develop the skills they need to secure the futures they dream of. Eradicating poverty is no small feat—the World Bank estimated that 712 million people worldwide were living in extreme poverty in 2022. However, we must not be discouraged. Pursuing such a worthy goal is one of life’s greatest privileges.

The UN chose 5 September as the International Day of Charity to honour the legacy of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, whose tireless work with the destitute from 1928 to 1997 remains an inspiration to us all. Her life reminds us to keep striving for a better world, no matter the challenges we face.

SP