Episode 71 - Devi Thomas of Microsoft Philanthropies and Dan Kershaw CEO of Furniture Bank

Demystifying AI: A Charity Leader's Guide to Digital Innovation

We chat to Devi Thomas, Global Leader of Nonprofit Community Capacity at Microsoft Philanthropies, and Dan Kershaw, CEO of nonprofit Furniture Bank

 

In this eye opening episode of Starts at the Top, we dive into the world of AI and its transformative potential for the charity sector. Join us as we chat with two visionaries at the forefront of charity digital innovation: Devi Thomas, Global Leader of Charity Community Capacity at Microsoft Philanthropies, and Dan Kershaw, CEO of nonprofit Furniture Bank in Canada.

Devi shares invaluable insights on how AI is reshaping the charitable landscape, from streamlining operations to attracting new talent. She emphasises the sector's unique position to become "architects of AI solutions" for social good, challenging charities to lead the charge in ethical AI adoption.

Dan Kershaw's story is nothing short of inspiring. He takes us through Furniture Bank's journey from AI novice to innovator, demonstrating how even small charities can harness AI's power with creativity and a dash of courage. From AI-generated imagery tackling 'furniture poverty' to multilingual volunteer support, Dan's practical examples prove that the potential of AI is within reach for all.

Zoe and Paul discuss how leadership might change under the new Labour government.

 

Notes:
Find out more about Furniture Bank https://www.furniturebank.org/about-furniture-bank/ and their AI generated campaign https://www.furniturebank.org/postcard/

Leadership news:
Article about new Labour MP intake https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c727ny2jd84o

And please leave us a review if you enjoy what you hear!

Editing and production - Syren Studios with Paul Thomas

Music by Joseph McDade https://josephmcdade.com/music

Full transcript of this episode (srt file)

Full transcript of this episode (.txt file)

Transcripts are also available through your podcast app.