Audette Exel announced as leading philanthropist

The 2016 Leading Philanthropist Award was announced at an awards ceremony in Melbourne.

Founder and Chair of the Adara Group Audette Exel was announced by Philanthropy Australia as the leading philanthropist of 2016.

“We’re delighted that Audette Exel is our Leading Philanthropist for 2016,” said CEO of Philanthropy Australia, Sarah Davies.

“Audette is a truly amazing individual and the impact she has had is far reaching. As a philanthropic innovator and pioneer in the ‘business for purpose’ field, Audette is constantly in search of how we can achieve more and better philanthropy to support communities in Australia and overseas.

“I love that Audette is willing to talk about her giving journey and share her story with others. Listening to her speak last night about the projects she supports was truly inspiring.  We need role models and leaders to speak up as that encourages others to give, and contributes to fostering a culture of change whereby others think about how they too can make a difference.”

The emerging philanthropist award went to Gemma Salteri from CAGES Foundation.

“Award winners are now recognised as leaders, inspiring potential and current philanthropic individuals and organisations to help our society grow and thrive,” said Davies.

“Our thanks go to those who nominated so many impressive examples of great achievements in philanthropic giving.

“The Awards attracted a remarkably strong field of more than 50 nominees and it is an outstanding achievement for the seven award recipients to have been selected. The panel of judges, who are all qualified and experienced leaders in the philanthropy sector had a very tough job, and our thanks go to them.”