Using the oceans as a metaphor, conference delegates will embark on a voyage to explore the sea of opportunities and challenges facing foundations in their work.

Oceans act as a perfect prism through which to consider a wide array of programmatic themes. They symbolise connectivity and mould our cultures by their proximity or their distance. For centuries they have defined human migration patterns, provided livelihoods as well as invaluable resources, and acted as a reminder of the vulnerability of our environment.

Delving deeper, the need to address the sustainability of our oceans and their resources mirrors foundations’ need to consider how to make the best use of the world’s resources (natural, human, knowledge, financial or otherwise) so that future generations can benefit from work done now. Sustainability and long-term thinking are imperative if foundations’ contribution to society is to be lasting and meaningful, and not just a drop in the ocean.

In short, foundations cannot discover new oceans until they have the courage to leave sight of the shore. With its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Cascais setting will give the impetus to foundations to lift their anchors.

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