GPC Gathering in New York

In a time of overlapping global crises, the need for courageous leadership has never been more urgent.

Resolute courage-to step beyond the familiar and embrace bold, transformative approaches-is essential if we are to create a just and flourishing future for both people and the planet. As philanthropists and changemakers, we hold the power to foster meaningful change. However, to do so requires a willingness to challenge the status quo, embrace inner work, and take bold, sometimes uncomfortable, steps toward systemic transformation.

Why Join Us?

• Inspiration for Action: Discover actionable strategies and the motivation to adopt bold approaches in your philanthropic journey.
• Network Expansion: Engage with a diverse community of philanthropists, fostering potential partnerships and collaborations.
• Transformative Conversations: Participate in dialogues that challenge assumptions and explore innovative solutions for systemic change.

GPC Member Registration

Guest Registration Inquiry

Program

The Courageous Leadership: The Path of Bold Philanthropy program will feature a dynamic blend of keynote presentations, panel discussions, and interactive workshops.

See the detailed schedule below. Stay tuned for more updates! To learn more, contact experiences@synergos.org.
 

WEDNESDAY 7 

08:45 – Registration & Breakfast 

Check in, grab your name badge, and enjoy a delicious breakfast while networking with fellow attendees before the Gathering begins. 

09:30 – Welcome Note & Scene-setting 

Jamie Webb & Camille Massey, Synergos 

A warm welcome to kick off the Gathering, setting the stage for the days ahead. 

10:00 – Courageous Leaders in the Spotlight: David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Honourees

This session will highlight the inspiring work of this year’s David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Honourees. Hear how these remarkable leaders have summoned the courage to stand for what’s right, bridge divides, and embrace vulnerability in their leadership. 

10:30 – In Conversation with Vuslat Sabanci, Vuslat Foundation 

Vuslat Sabanci, philanthropist, artist, and founder of the Vuslat Foundation, will share her journey of courageous leadership and creative changemaking in a fireside chat with Peggy Dulany. This conversation will explore how listening, storytelling, and creativity drive meaningful transformation, with a focus on the role of generosity and bold action in building a more just world. 

11:15 – Coffee Break 

Refuel with a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy casual conversations with fellow participants. 

11:45 – Insight Talk: Mauricio Diazgranados, Chief Science Officer at the New York Botanical Garden 

Dr. Diazgranados will explore the intersection of biodiversity, conservation, and scientific innovation. A leading expert on páramo ecosystems, he’ll share how botanical research can tackle global challenges such as climate change and food security. 

12:30 – Lunch & Reflective Walk 

Take a mindful pause to nourish both body and mind and find inspiration in the surrounding environment. 

13:45 – Looking to the Future: NextGen Leadership in Action 

How can emerging leaders navigate complex challenges and take strategic risks to accelerate impact? This discussion will explore the values and innovations of next-generation philanthropists shaping the future of courageous philanthropy. Speakers include Pauline Borg, KAIROS, and others (TBC). 

14:45 – Building New Worlds: The Creative Work of Long-Term Thinking, Patrick Dowd of The Long Now Foundation 

In a time of compounding crises, how can we cultivate the courage to dream boldly and envision alternative futures? This interactive session will explore how science fiction and philosophy can inspire transformative philanthropy across generations. Through guided discussion and collaborative creation, we will challenge the status quo, imagine alternative cultural systems that expand what's possible in philanthropic practice, and design tangible representations of bold new possibilities. We will leave with renewed hope and practical tools for dreaming new dreams, building together, and becoming the better ancestors, our world so urgently needs. 

16:00 – Coffee Break 

Pause for a refreshing cup of coffee or tea and engage in casual conversations with fellow participants before the final session of the day. 

16:30 – In Conversation with Dr. Larry Brilliant 

Facilitated by Peggy Dulany, Synergos

Dr. Larry Brilliant, key figure in the eradication of smallpox and global health leader, will discuss his journey in spearheading major health initiatives. This session will explore the leadership needed to address today’s global health challenges and the critical role of bold philanthropy in driving transformative change.  

17:30 – Networking Drinks 

Wrap up Day 1 with a relaxed networking reception, offering an opportunity to reflect on the day’s discussions while making meaningful connections over light drinks. 

18:00 – Close of Day 1 

 

THURSDAY 8 

08:45 – Registration & Breakfast 

Reconnect with peers over a light breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee before starting Day 2. Check in, pick up your materials, and prepare for another engaging day. 

09:30 – Welcome Note 

Jamie Webb, Synergos 

Kickstart Day 2 with an energizing welcome to set the tone for the day’s sessions. 

10:00 – GPC Member Insights  

Facilitated by Synergos 

An opportunity for members to share their updates and experiences in an open, collaborative format. 

10:30 – In Conversation with Dr. Francis Kuria, Religions for Peace | Fireside Chat 

Facilitated by Rodney McKenzie, Jr., The Fetzer Institute 

Dr. Francis Kuria Kagema, a leader in interreligious dialogue and social impact, will discuss bridging divides, advocating for justice, and mobilizing communities for change. Moderated by Rodney McKenzie, Jr. this conversation explores leading with boldness and conviction. 

11:30 – Coffee Break 

Refuel and connect with others in a relaxed setting, preparing for the next session. 

12:00 – Inner Courage for Outer Action – Gretchen Steidle Session 

What is the source of true courage? Through this experiential journey fusing breathwork and mindful reflection, we will unearth and embody our inner resources for bold action. Engaging in personal reflection and shared storytelling, we will dive deeper into our unique wisdom to identify the resources that both enable our resilience and fuel our courage. You will leave with an authentic taste of how to resource the courage needed for bold action and a self-care plan for keeping ourselves grounded in the face of challenge.  

13:00 – Lunch & Reflective Walk 

After lunch, take a reflective walk to process new ideas and return refreshed for the final sessions of the Gathering. 

14:30 – Democracy in the Age of AI: Navigating Risks and Opportunities 

Facilitated by Jonathan Evens, Evens Foundation 

This panel discussion will explore how AI is reshaping democratic processes, the risks involved, and how philanthropy can take bold action to ensure AI serves the public good. Speakers include Aviv Ovadya (AI & Democracy Foundation), Alexandra Reeve Givens (Center for Democracy & Technology), and Yaël Eisenstat (Cybersecurity & Democracy). 

15:30 – Coffee Break 

Savor a coffee or tea, share ideas, or unwind with fellow attendees before the next session. 

16:00 – The Sound of Courage: Unlocking Bold Philanthropy | Interactive Workshop 

What does courage sound like? In this interactive session, we’ll use music to spark bold conversations about philanthropy. Through personal storytelling and creative reflection, we’ll explore what truly matters and map out courageous next steps. Facilitated by Ori Leshman, Music for Dialogue. 

17:30 – Networking Drinks 

As the GPC Members' Gathering comes to a close, join us for a light networking reception to unwind and continue meaningful conversations in a casual, welcoming environment. 

18:00 – Close of Day 2 

 

Disclaimer 

Please note that the conference program is subject to change. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the schedule and speaker information, adjustments may occur due to unforeseen circumstances. We encourage attendees to check for updates closer to the event. 

The GPC Gathering in New York is part of the Synergos Global Gathering, which also includes the 2025 David Rockefeller Bridging Leadership Awards on Tuesday, May 6. The Bridging Leadership Awards is an evening of inspiration and exploration at the iconic New York Historical. Together in this storied space, we will honor the theme of courageous leadership and reflect on the future of Synergos’ growing global network.

Confirmed GPC Gathering Speakers

Venue

Brooklyn Botanic Gardens
Palm House
1000 Washington Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11238
www.bbg.org/

Brooklyn Botanic Garden is an urban botanic garden that connects people to the world of plants, fostering delight and curiosity while inspiring an appreciation and sense of stewardship of the environment.

Dress Code: Business Casual

Transportation

Synergos will arrange a complimentary group transfer from our Manhattan office, 1 East 53rd Street, at 8:00 AM on May 7 & May 8. The shuttle will also return participants to the Manhattan office at the end of each day.
The group shuttle is full and can no longer accept RSVPs. Thank you for your understanding. 

If arranging your own transportation, please review more information on Directions & Parking for the venue.

Hotel Recommendations

For guests that wish to stay in Brooklyn: we recommend booking at one of the following hotels.
Please note: Synergos does not have any pre-arranged reservations with these hotels or booking code for guests. Accommodation is not included in registration.

Ace Hotel Brooklyn
252 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11217
9min drive from program venue

Hilton Brooklyn New York
140 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
11min drive from program venue
 

For guests that wish to stay in Manhattan: we recommend booking at one of the following hotels.
Please note: Synergos does not have any pre-arranged reservations with these hotels or booking code for guests. Accommodation is not included in registration.

Omni Bershire Place
21 E 52nd St, New York, NY 10022
30min drive from program venue

The Peninsula New York
700 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019
30min drive from program venue