In last week’s Scholar Spotlight,  @Drishti Basi, a Laidlaw Scholar at Oxford University’s @Saïd Business School, shared her admiration for MacKenzie Scott’s unique approach to philanthropy. Drishti highlighted how Scott’s “Ripple Effect Philanthropy” challenges traditional norms by trusting communities to lead their own change, a concept that resonates with the idea of inclusive and equitable leadership.

This week, we reflect on Scott’s powerful words:

A Visionary Leader in Her Own Right

MacKenzie Scott, born on April 7, 1970, in San Francisco, California, first made her mark as an author, studying under the acclaimed writer Toni Morrison at Princeton University. While she may be widely known as the former wife of Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, Scott’s impact extends far beyond that association. After her divorce, she emerged as one of the world’s most significant philanthropists, making waves not just because of the scale of her giving but also because of her unique approach.

Trust-Based Giving to Drive Change from Within

Scott’s decision to distribute over $14 billion to more than 1,600 organizations without restrictions has generated both support and debate. What stands out in her approach is the emphasis on equity—ensuring that those who are directly affected by inequities are not just at the table but are the driving force for change. This reflects a broader understanding that real impact often comes from empowering communities to lead, leveraging their unique insights and lived experiences. While the effectiveness of Scott's specific approach can vary, the emphasis on inclusion and trust is a powerful reminder of how leadership should be reimagined to be more equitable.

Connecting to Laidlaw Values

Scott’s focus on inclusive leadership aligns with the Laidlaw values of being #Good and #Extraordinary. Being good means understanding that meaningful change often comes from those who live the issues every day. Being extraordinary involves challenging traditional approaches and creating spaces where new voices can lead the way forward.

A Call to Reflect

As Laidlaw Scholars, let’s draw inspiration from both MacKenzie Scott’s efforts and Drishti Basi’s reflections. While approaches to leadership and giving may differ, the lesson remains clear: equity and inclusion are essential in driving effective change.