In Episode 147 of the No Limitations podcast Modern Day Miracle, Blenheim Partners’ Gregory Robinson speaks to Ian Wishart, Chief Executive Officer of The Fred Hollows Foundation.
In a stirring discussion, Ian sheds light on the central mission of The Fred Hollows Foundation, which has helped restore sight or prevent blindness for more than 150 million people across 25 countries over the past 30 years. He reflects on his formative years in Port Moresby and how these experiences gave him purpose for helping those less fortunate. We hear of Ian’s early days as he commenced his career in the field of humanitarian aid, where he was deployed to civil war-torn Ethiopia as well as Rwanda, amidst an ongoing tragedy at that time, before dedicating his time to advancing children’s rights and promoting gender equality. Ian then turns to his role as Chief Executive Officer of The Fred Hollows Foundation. He shares with us their incredible DNA, where one never accepts the impossible, and how they are bringing together communities, supporters, governments, and experts from around the world to help realise a bold vision of not only restoring sight but changing lives. We learn of an ambitious five-year strategy, their plans for transforming countries, as well as stories of remarkable generosity, from the donors who offer a little amount regularly, why it counts, to the future of corporate partnership, and how it will be a game changer. Constant throughout is the underlying message of the goodness of humanity and its incredible spirit.
Ian brings over three decades of senior leadership in humanitarian, development, and emergency relief work. After university, he commenced his career with World Vision Australia as an Emergency Relief Project Officer before becoming a Manager in the Emergency Relief Unit, a National Director in Laos, and a Strategy Manager based in Melbourne. Thereafter, Ian served as Chief Executive Officer of Plan International Australia for 18 years and also held the role of Global Project Director for five years, leading Plan International’s startup in Hong Kong. Since 2018, Ian has been the Chief Executive Officer of The Fred Hollows Foundation.
Please note: this episode was recorded on 25 November 2024.
Christmas is a time for giving. Please join the Blenheim Partners Christmas Wish in supporting The Fred Hollows Foundation.
The Fred Hollows Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to eliminating avoidable blindness and improving eye health, particularly in underserved communities. Inspired by the humanitarian work of Professor Fred Hollows, the Foundation partners with governments and local communities to build sustainable eye health systems, remove barriers to care, and train local healthcare workers. Their mission is clear: to ensure that everyone, no matter where they live, has access to high-quality, affordable eye care. At Fred Hollows, they believe that sight should never depend on where you were born.
Together, we can make a difference. To make a donation to The Fred Hollows Foundation, please visit: https://www.hollows.org/donate/
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