AFP Board Member Spotlight: Perihan Abou El Ela

To recognize the outgoing board members of 2023, we asked them to share with us some of the highlights from their time as AFP volunteers and their advice for our incoming leaders.  

In this Outgoing Board Member Spotlight, Perihan Abou El Ela, who served as the chapter president's council representative and at-large director, shares her experiences advocating for AFP’s commitment to inclusion, diversity, equity, and access on a global level. 

Q: When and why did you decide to become an AFP member and how did you become a volunteer?
A: As a fundraising leader, I was nominated to join the AFP Egypt & MENA Chapter back in 2018. The fundraising industry was still perceived as a voluntarily one, where professionals gain their own experience by practice, so I was inspired to join a community of senior fundraising leaders and the biggest NGOs in Egypt. It was a good opportunity to bond with the fundraising community and strengthen our industry.

Since then, I’ve been quite committed to connecting with both the local community and the global one. Gradually yet quickly, I was chosen to be president-elect and then president of the Egypt & MENA chapter. At the global level, I became a nominating committee member where I had the chance for two years to participate in the selection of the AFP board members. I then became the chapter president’s council representative on the AFP Global Board of Directors, where I had the distinction of being the first Arab woman to hold this honorable seat. Most recently, I completed my term as an at-large director on the Global Board.

Q: What is the biggest change you witnessed, either at AFP or in the broader profession, during your time on the board? 
A: Ongoing commitment to IDEA “Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Access”, which was proven through board formulation, committees, and inclusive fundraising practices. 

Q: Do you have any advice for emerging leaders who are interested in serving on the AFP Global Board in the future?
A: Certainly! Serving on the AFP Global Board is a significant opportunity for emerging leaders in the fundraising profession. Here are some pieces of advice for those interested in pursuing this path:

1. Gain Diverse Experience: Seek out leadership roles within AFP chapters or other nonprofit organizations to gain diverse experience in fundraising, governance, and strategic planning. This will help you develop a well-rounded skill set that is valuable for board service.
    
2. Deepen Your Involvement: Actively engage with AFP at both the local and global levels. Attend conferences, participate in committees, and take advantage of professional development opportunities to deepen your involvement and understanding of AFP's mission and operations.
    
3. Build a Strong Network: Cultivate relationships with current and past AFP board members, as well as other influential leaders in the fundraising field. Networking within the AFP community can provide valuable insights and support for your fundraising career path.
    
4. Demonstrate Leadership: Take on leadership roles in your professional life and within AFP, demonstrating your ability to lead, collaborate, and drive positive change within the fundraising profession.
    
5. Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay informed about current trends, best practices, and emerging issues in fundraising and nonprofit management. Continuing education and a commitment to lifelong learning are essential qualities for board leadership.
    
6. Understand AFP's Vision: Familiarize yourself with AFP's strategic priorities, values, and global impact. Aligning your own leadership vision with the mission of AFP will demonstrate your commitment to advancing the fundraising profession.
    
7. Be Committed to Inclusion: Advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fundraising profession and demonstrate your commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all fundraisers.

By following these recommendations, emerging leaders can position themselves as strong candidates for future service on the AFP Global Board and contribute to the continued growth and impact of the fundraising profession.

Q: What is one skill you think is invaluable as a fundraising leader?
A: Passion is indeed an invaluable skill for a fundraiser leader. A deep passion for the cause you’re raising funds for can be a driving force that inspires others to get involved and support your organization. Passionate leaders are able to convey their enthusiasm and commitment, which can be infectious and motivating for donors, volunteers, and staff. It also can fuel perseverance in the face of challenges and setbacks, and it can help you maintain a positive attitude and inspire others to stay engaged and dedicated to the cause. 

Passion is not just a powerful force for building connections, inspiring action, and driving meaningful change. But it is also a catalyst for innovation, creativity, and resilience in the fundraising process. Therefore, while there are many important skills for fundraiser leaders, the ability to lead with passion can be a defining factor in achieving success.

Q: What is your favorite word? (only one word) How has this word influenced or inspired your career?
A: Diversity! Diversity is an inspiring word which literally says, “The sky’s the limit.” Embracing the values of diversity can enrich your fundraising career by motivating you to approach your work with greater empathy, cultural awareness, and a commitment to inclusivity, eventually leading to more impactful and meaningful fundraising efforts.

Q: What is an accomplishment from your board service that you’re proud of?
A: Making the word “global” real by adding more Global South countries to the AFP network. During my time on the board, we have taken the word “IDEA” to a more global level, introducing inclusive perceptions beyond the American context. By reflecting their voices and sharing their messaging, AFP Global can provide more inclusive benefits to the fundraising community in different parts of the world. AFP Global has a lot to offer to the fundraisers in the U.S. and around the globe.  

Q: Is there anything that you hope the incoming board is able to accomplish or prioritize?
A: I would like to see AFP continue working on our commitment to “global” and “IDEA”, to reach new horizons and target untapped countries. There are incredible global opportunities for AFP in other parts of the world. Strengthening AFP's branding as a key global fundraising association and advocating for the adoption of best international practices for the fundraising profession are crucial steps in advancing the organization's global impact and enhancing the organization's visibility and influence in diverse regions around the world.

Q: What is the next step for you in your volunteer career as you leave the AFP Global Board?
A: I’m still an active member in both the Egypt & MENA Chapter and the global community. I’m just slowing down as my current professional career needs more time and investments from my side.