Empowering Global Change:
2025 NGO Leadership Workshop
From January 19–24, 2025, leaders from across the region gathered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to master the art of sustainable philanthropy and impactful leadership.
Malaysia · January 2025
Impactful Learning & Curriculum
Over six days, participants engaged in a rigorous curriculum designed by the Muslim Philanthropy Initiative at the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy. Organized by the Centre on South Asian Studies, this intensive residency empowered leaders to harness the power of Islamic philanthropy and sustainable management.
Core Philanthropic Principles
Attendees explored the theological and practical foundations of Zakat, Sadaqah, and Waqf — grounding their work in Islamic giving traditions.
The Fundraising Cycle
Sessions covered the "Six Rights of Fundraising," building a compelling case for support, and conducting fundraising readiness assessments.
Leadership & Storytelling
Leaders explored different leadership styles and practiced the art of "Public Narrative" — learning to connect authentically with donors and communities.
Volunteer & Project Management
The workshop provided actionable strategies for managing volunteers and delivering projects, even during times of crisis.
Hands-on Experience
The program included daily NGO presentations and breakout sessions, giving participants a platform to solve real-world organizational challenges.
Now Enrolling · Jakarta, Indonesia
Join Us at the 2026 Workshop
May 8–10, 2026 · Jakarta, Indonesia · Limited Seats
What Participants Learned
Five Days. Four Pillars. One Transformative Experience.
1
January 19 — Inaugural Dinner & Orientation
Introduction to Philanthropy & Fundraising
Participants were welcomed with an inaugural dinner and orientation, followed on Day 2 with a deep dive into the foundations of philanthropy — exploring Islamic notions of giving, the theological principles behind Zakat, Sadaqah, and Waqf, and an honest look at contemporary challenges in Muslim giving. The afternoon introduced the Fundraising Cycle and the Six Rights of Fundraising, anchored by mission-building exercises.
2
January 20
Fundraising for Nonprofits
Sessions focused on identifying and qualifying prospective donors, understanding the psychology of giving, and structuring major gift management cycles. Participants worked through "Portraits of Donors" and current issues in giving, followed by hands-on group discussions. The day concluded with group breakouts on donor engagement action plans.
3
January 21
Leadership & Storytelling
A dedicated day on leadership — exploring different leadership styles through case study exercises, drawing on Islamic leadership principles, and culminating in the powerful "Public Narrative and Storytelling" module. Each participant developed and delivered their own leadership story, a skill proven to deepen donor relationships and inspire communities.
4
January 22
Project & Volunteer Management
Participants gained practical frameworks for volunteer motivation, integration, and retention — alongside complete project management lifecycle training. Special focus was placed on managing projects during crisis situations and episodic volunteering models, equipping leaders with tools relevant to the real constraints faced by South Asian nonprofits.
5
January 23–24
NGO Presentations & Graduation
The final days featured live NGO presentations — each organization presenting their fundraising case and strategic plan to the cohort. Breakout sessions allowed deep peer feedback and cross-organizational collaboration. Participants departed with a comprehensive study guide, empirical Muslim giving data reports, and a professional certificate issued by Indiana University.
6
Days of Intensive
Residential Training
4
Core Curriculum
Pillars
IU
Certificate from
Indiana University
KL
International Youth Center,
Kuala Lumpur
Tangible Takeaways
Every Participant Left With
Indiana University Certificate
A professional credential from one of the world's leading philanthropy schools, recognized globally.
Comprehensive Study Guide
An easy-to-use reference guide with models, frameworks, and tools for immediate application in their organizations.
A Global Peer Network
Lasting connections with nonprofit professionals from across South and Southeast Asia facing similar challenges.
Muslim Giving Data Reports
Empirical data and research on Muslim philanthropic behavior — invaluable for grant writing and donor outreach.
Special Events Training
Hands-on experience in planning and executing fundraising events, including live interactive practice sessions.
A Personal Leadership Story
Through the Public Narrative exercise, every participant crafted and delivered their own leadership story — a powerful tool for donor connection and community mobilization.
World-Class Facilitation
Expert Instruction
The workshop was led by Dr. Shariq Siddiqui, Assistant Professor and Director of the Muslim Philanthropy Initiative at Indiana University. As a global expert with a Ph.D. and JD, Dr. Siddiqui provided participants with a unique blend of academic insight and practical legal knowledge in the field of philanthropy.
Expert Instruction
The workshop was led by Dr. Shariq Siddiqui, Assistant Professor and Director of the Muslim Philanthropy Initiative at Indiana University. As a global expert with a Ph.D. and JD, Dr. Siddiqui provided participants with a unique blend of academic insight and practical legal knowledge in the field of philanthropy.
Certification & Networking
Upon successful completion, participants were awarded a professional certificate from Indiana University. Beyond the classroom, the workshop served as a vital networking hub, allowing professionals to share experiences and build lasting partnerships with peers from diverse backgrounds.
Certification & Networking
Upon successful completion, participants were awarded a professional certificate from Indiana University. Beyond the classroom, the workshop served as a vital networking hub, allowing professionals to share experiences and build lasting partnerships with peers from diverse backgrounds.
The Experience
Missed this 2025 NGO Leadership Workshop?
Our Kuala Lumpur residency was a massive success. Don’t miss your chance to join us in 2026. Subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to know when 2026 registrations open.
