Over 100 Students…
Educated to understand and navigate the changing landscape of philanthropy through a global network of entrepreneurs, business leaders, and philanthropists working in all sectors of philanthropy.
Over $3.5 Million…
Raised to support youth education and philanthropy programs, humanitarian aid and education for women, children and refugees worldwide.
3 Innovative Programs…
To teach and engage youth from the age of seven to twenty-three on the important and rewarding aspects of giving. Spark programs go beyond volunteering to inspire students to become future leaders and innovators. We teach the skill set required to purposely and productively contribute to society.
Spark Junior
Spark Philanthropy Program
Spark Endowment & Portfolio Management Program
Unprecedented Global Summit Experiences…
Spark students now have the opportunity to participate in annual Spark Summits which include unparalleled opportunities and experiences, allowing our students to become global citizens with the ability to create lasting positive change on an international scale. To date Spark Summits have taken students to New York, Washington D.C, and the United Arab Emirates to experience philanthropy through global organizations, government initiatives, family foundations, and powerful individuals.
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First Course on Philanthropy delivered at UBC Sauder…
Comm 386V: Philanthropy in Review is the first ever course on philanthropy to be delivered in partnership with Spark at the University of British Columbia, Sauder School of Business. Launch January 2019, the course offers students an unparalleled learning experience. Students hear first hand from world-class philanthropists and a delve into the theoretical framework of philanthropy as it becomes a prominent aspect of the mainstream.
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Student Testimonials
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Dear Abdul,
I want to thank you for making me an Ambassador of Spark. The program has undoubtedly benefited my understanding of philanthropy, and I have learned so much about the world and the difference between “wants” and “needs”.
The New York and Washington,DC. trip was an experience I will never forget. The speakers on the trip were beyond excellent. Being an American living In Canada, I felt I learned so much about American politics, finances and history. On top of that, I made a number of new friendships with kind, positive and forward-thinking individuals.
Prior to becoming a Spark member, I had no idea what philanthropy was. I believed It was only possible to donate and become successful if you came from a wealthy background. After hearing stories from Joe Segal and Frank Guistra, in particular, I realized that was a huge misconception.
I am so grateful to be a part of such an amazing program. I look forward to all the new things I will learn in this program and eventually using the knowledge I have learned at Spark to make the world a better place.
Sincerely,
Quincy Smith.
Hi Abdul,
A note of thanks for the truly incredible program you and your team have put together. Samantha has been inspired since the opening night when she listened to you and Frank speak. I’ve listened to her tell others the difference between charity and philanthropy and have marvelled at her shift in ideology.
After the New York trip, Samantha reached out to Amed because she was so inspired by Elpida. Amed replied to her immediately and as a result of their ongoing conversations, Samantha and I will be going to volunteer at Elpida this summer. She is now working with the team at Elpida to determine what supplies are most urgently needed and will be raising funds at school next week so we can purchase them upon our arrival.
Samantha has been an ambassador for Spark at York House School where she has spoken at assembly as well as set up a booth explaining the program in the hopes of inspiring others to join.
I can’t thank you enough for investing in this demographic, and specifically for giving Samantha this life changing experience.
Warm regards,
Michelle
Hi Abdul,
As this year’s program comes to an end, I’d like to offer my sincerest and absolute honest gratitude.
This year, I felt like my horizons broadened to such an extent that I could do absolutely anything. Meeting the folk in New York showed me there is lots of good in the world, seeing Chip Wilson proved one can do anything when in the proper mindset, and the surrounding of like-minded students empowered me then and will continue to do so. I’m truly going to go out in the world and kick ass because of Spark.
However, throughout this time you’ve remained a mystery. I mean I’ve searched who you are but as you say yourself, there are things you can’t really Google! Abdul I’m wondering if we can grab a coffee sometime this month so I can learn about you and the real beast that you are. I’m inspired by all the things you’ve put forward and can safely say you are someone I’d like to be.
Sadid Rahimi
Hi Abdul,
I just wanted to thank you again for inspiring me, teaching me the values of a philanthropist, and exposing me to such amazing guest speakers! I wanted to write a letter of my experience with the course, so that more brilliant students at UBC have the same opportunity to make an impact. This has been my favourite course at UBC, and I wish you all the best in growing both SPARK and this course!
Best Regards,
Jackson
