September 18, 2024
The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation (KSLOF) recently took part in the Fourth Foundations Dialogue, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from September 3-5, 2024. Hosted by the Fundação Grupo Boticário de Proteção à Natureza alongside key partners UNESCO Ocean and UNESCO, this gathering was part of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (the Ocean Decade). With over 30 global philanthropic foundations in attendance, the event focused on exploring strategic actions, pooling resources, and enhancing investments in ocean conservation.
Participating in the Fourth Foundations Dialogue provided KSLOF with the opportunity to collaborate with leading voices in ocean conservation, discuss pressing marine issues, and develop strategies for the future. Our CEO, Alexandra Dempsey, played an active role throughout the event, speaking at several sessions to share KSLOF’s experience and insights. She contributed to critical discussions on how foundations can work together to support inclusive ocean science and drive tangible conservation outcomes. The Foundation’s CCO, Liz Thompson, also attended and participated in discussions and working groups surrounding strategic communications for ocean science and conservation.
The Foundations Dialogue is more than just a gathering; it’s a platform to turn ideas into action. For KSLOF, attending this event was a pivotal opportunity to:
- Collaborate on Global Ocean Solutions
By engaging with other foundations, we strengthened our connections with international partners, opening up new avenues for collaboration that will enhance our ability to support critical ocean conservation efforts. Working together with philanthropic leaders ensures that resources are aligned and used effectively to address the most pressing marine issues. - Explore Strategic Investments in Ocean Conservation
The event focused on how foundations can pool their resources to maximize impact. From securing funding for joint initiatives to sharing in-kind resources, the Dialogue laid the groundwork for stronger, more coordinated efforts to protect our oceans. KSLOF’s participation ensures that we’re at the forefront of these discussions, contributing to strategies that can make a difference. - Shape the Future of Philanthropy for the Oceans
As the world moves toward key milestones, such as the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, events like the Foundations Dialogue are critical in shaping the direction of philanthropic support for ocean conservation. The discussions held in Rio will help inform future initiatives, ensuring that philanthropic investments are aligned with global goals and that they drive real-world conservation outcomes.
KSLOF’s involvement in the Fourth Foundations Dialogue advances our efforts to promote ocean conservation around the world. By collaborating with global leaders and aligning with international initiatives, we are amplifying our impact and ensuring that our work continues to support the health of the world’s oceans.
As we look ahead, our continued involvement in the Foundations Dialogue will be crucial for maintaining these strategic relationships and advancing KSLOF’s mission of preserving marine ecosystems through science, education, and outreach. Stay tuned as we build on the momentum from this event and continue to work toward a sustainable future for our oceans.
