James is the Head of Community and Partnerships at Giving What We Can.
As an aid worker focused on leading international development and humanitarian teams, James spent the last four years living and working in Somalia, Kenya and Rwanda. His passion for effective giving is underpinned by these experiences.
James holds a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from Oxford University.
In his personal time, James is a passionate hiker and adventure enthusiast. He’s at his happiest outside in nature.
Hi William. James from the Giving What We Can team. Thanks so much for sharing this!
I think exactly this asymmetry is what makes the pledge so compelling: small adjustments in our own comfort can translate into massive gains in wellbeing, health, and opportunity for others. It’s quite starling to have it show like this.
I also relate with the donation story. I recently told my friends I was approaching £50,000 in donations and their response was pretty much stunned silence. But then I broke it down for them and explained that it was spread over 5 years, (some which I’d be living abroad and had very low living costs) and it prompted a great discussion. I also told them the truth: that I get far more satisfaction from the 10% I give away than I do from any other spending. Two of them went away telling me they’d consider pledging themselves.
Obviously each case is different, but I’d definitely encourage you to keep having these conversations. You’re doing an amazing thing!