'Trust Based Philanthropy' Seumas Fantham

In this episode of Purposely Podcast, we’re joined by Seumas Fantham (Ngāti Porou, Whakatōhea), Chief Executive of the Todd Foundation.

Mark Longbottom (left), Host of Purposely and Seumas Fantham

Seumas shares how philanthropy can move beyond forms, reports, and checkboxes, towards something rooted in trust, honesty, and shared learning.

He’s clear that effective giving isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about building real relationships, creating space for honest conversations, and making it safe for partners to talk about challenges without fear of losing support.

At the Todd Foundation, this thinking has shaped a high-trust funding model that’s been in place since 2009. The Foundation provides long-term, untagged support to community-led initiatives — recognising that real progress comes with ups and downs. When things get tough, their instinct is to stand alongside partners, not step back.

We also talk about the culture change needed across the funding sector, shifting from being grant-makers to genuine partners. It takes humility, patience, and a willingness to listen.

Outside of work, Seumas stays grounded through whānau and the small moments that keep things real, like sharing a chocolate fish with his daughter.