What we believe

We take a justice and solidarity approach to grantmaking - recognizing that there are imbalances of power and privilege in this world, and that, as part of these imbalances, we must assess, question and actively transfer power away from ourselves.

In philanthropy and in global development, we believe that being in solidarity with communities requires donors and other holders of power and wealth to walk with, be guided by and shift power to the people and communities we wish to serve.

What we know

Relevant, impactful, and sustainable change at the community level comes when:

• Community members determine, own, and drive the change process; and

• Change actions focus on addressing the underlying systems and root causes of concern – rather than only reacting to symptoms.

Our vision

Firelight envisions a world where children and youth in eastern and southern Africa live in safe, strong, nurturing environments where they can thrive.

Our mission

Firelight pools donor funds to build the capacity of catalytic community-based organizations that are working with their communities to realize smart, sustainable, and potentially scalable community-driven systems change for children and youth in eastern and southern Africa.