Bellagio Part 1: Leading with purpose

Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Como, Italy, The Rockefeller Foundation’s Bellagio Center has a storied history of fostering impactful initiatives that address global challenges. From its role in launching the Global Alliance for Vaccine Initiatives to the Global Impact Investing Network, the center’s legacy is woven with numerous threads of transformative change.

The center’s allure lies not only in its rich history but also in its ability to attract a diverse array of brilliant minds. Over the years, Bellagio has played host to Nobel Laureates like Joseph Stiglitz and Mohamed Yunus, distinguished figures like Bill Gates, and creative luminaries like Maya Angelou and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. This unique convergence of thinkers from various domains has led to cross-pollination of ideas and groundbreaking collaborations.

This week, as the spotlight turns to the India Climate Collaborative’s convening at The Bellagio Center, it marks a significant milestone for us in our attempt to shape the trajectory of climate philanthropy in India. The urgency of the matter cannot be understated. As one of the most vulnerable to climate impacts, India’s role in the global fight against climate change is crucial. The meeting couldn’t come at a more opportune time, given the increasing emphasis on philanthropic capital’s role in addressing climate challenges.

In this new chapter of Bellagio’s illustrious tale, we hope to set the stage for a first of its kind endeavour — uniting a dynamic group of next-generation Indian philanthropists who are poised to lead from the frontlines of climate action. These emerging leaders recognise that the climate crisis demands innovative solutions and fresh perspectives. They carry a torch of responsibility to navigate uncharted waters, embracing their roles not only as inheritors of the future but as architects of it.

Our role? Supporting their leadership aspirations, providing them with the platform, resources, and connections necessary to catalyse change and drive climate ambition and action within India as well as build a broader movement that places emerging economies like India at the helm of climate agendas.

As the sun sets over Lake Como, The Bellagio Center is set to become a crucible of possibilities for our young leaders. It’s here where we hope that the seeds of collaboration will be sown, where impactful ideas converge, and where the journey towards a climate-resilient future for India gains momentum.

The tale of Bellagio continues, now interwoven with the hopes of a nation seeking a sustainable path forward.