GEM spotlight - Heather Little, Chief Philanthropy Officer, Australian Wildlife Conservancy
Gembridge is proud to sponsor the Leadership & Emerging Issues track at the FIA Conference and delighted Heather returned as Co-Chair, a passionate advocate for bold, values-driven leadership. Heather’s commitment to mentoring emerging fundraisers and shaping the future of philanthropy makes her an inspiring force in the sector and a valued part of the Gembridge network. A big thank you to Heather and all the volunteer committee who bring the conference to life!
Let’s hear from Heather…
Image: Heather Little
What session are you most excited to attend at the FIA Conference in Melbourne—and why?
really looking forward to “The Power of Female Collective Giving.” The momentum behind women-led philanthropy is growing rapidly, and it’s creating a more collaborative, values-driven way of giving that resonates deeply with how I approach fundraising. I’m excited to hear how giving circles and community-based models are reshaping decision-making and impact, and how charities can partner meaningfully in this space. There’s something incredibly powerful about women coming together to change systems—and I’m eager to see what insights this panel sparks.
What’s the best thing about your current role?
I get to connect generosity with purpose on a scale that is genuinely shifting outcomes for wildlife and wild places across Australia. Seeing donors realise the transformative impact they can have is unbelievably rewarding and I get to spend some time on some incredible landscapes with them too! Also leading a talented philanthropy team who bring intelligence, passion and heart to their work each day is truly a privilege.
What is your proudest accomplishment or career highlight?
Similar to my wonderful track co-chair, Rachael, becoming a Fellow of FIA this year was an immense honour and to be recognised amongst such esteemed peers was truly a special moment. Similarly also being recognised as a F&P Mover and Shaker for 2025 was also a real highlight and incredibly special. However, some of my proudest moments come from mentoring and supporting others. Watching emerging fundraisers step into their confidence, stretch their leadership skills and find their voice through platforms like FIA, is the most rewarding part of my career.
What first inspired you to get into fundraising or the nonprofit sector?
Like many, I had worked for years in an administrative role for large organisations and it really didn't align with my values or what I wanted to achieve in life or my professional career. I had always been engaged in some form of volunteerism and had supported charitable organisations, so I took the leap over 15 years ago to join the sector and I've never looked back! As I've stepped into leadership roles where fundraising was essential to enabling impact, I realised how powerful it is as a force for change. That was the moment I knew that I was where I'm meant to be. For me, fundraising isn't just a job, it's a truly personal calling.
Fundraising can be challenging. What keeps you focused, motivated, and committed—even when it’s tough?
Purpose, People and Perspective. In my current role at AWC, the stakes in conservation are real, and the urgency keeps me grounded. The generosity of donors and the passion of my team and my colleagues in the sector never fails to inspire me. Fundraising is marathon work, not sprint work. And when you focus on long-term, values-aligned relationships, the tough days feel less daunting and the wins feel even more incredible.
What do you think the future of fundraising looks like?
The future is a blend of technology and humanity. AI and digital platforms will expand our ability to automate and innovate, but our real differentiator will always be trust, integrity and genuine human to human connections. I’m excited by community-led models like collective giving, more global cross-border philanthropy and a focus on transparency of impact.
What’s a skill or quality that you think every great fundraiser should have? How have you developed it?
Fundraising, at its core, is about people—what inspires them, what they value, and how they want to shape the world for the better. Deep listening and genuine compassion help us nurture those relationships, while strong people skills enable us to build the trust and connection that sit at the heart of great philanthropy. But what really underpins it all is tenacity: staying steady, hopeful and focused even when things feel uncertain or the path ahead is long. Over the years, I’ve learned that it’s the blend of caring deeply for people—donors and teams—and having the determination to keep moving forward, especially when the stakes are high, as well as focusing on having a mix of heart and resilience that truly makes fundraising such a meaningful profession.
What’s something surprising or little-known about you?
Before and during my fundraising career, I was also a professional singer, often juggling more than 120 performances a year alongside a full-time fundraising role and various volunteering commitments. It was a wonderful time, and performing taught me so many of the skills I rely on today: presence, confidence, resilience, storytelling, and the ability to connect with people. I’ve had the privilege of performing in some extraordinary venues and meeting incredible people along the way, and those experiences continue to shape how I show up as a fundraiser and a leader.
What’s your favourite holiday destination, and why?
Image: Heather enjoying the outdoors
Such a hard question! Anyone who knows me knows how much I love to travel, and I’ve been incredibly lucky to experience some extraordinary places around the world. Earlier this year I spent time on the Great Barrier Reef and witnessed turtles nesting and tiny hatchlings making their first journey to the ocean—an unforgettable way to start the year, completely immersed in nature. I also spent some time in India last year which was truly transformative, and seeing a leopard in the wild was a highlight too! For me, a favourite destination isn’t just about the location; it’s about exploring somewhere new, spending meaningful time with my husband, and weaving in a few nature experiences along the way. Anywhere that brings those elements together instantly becomes a favourite!
How do you unwind or recharge after a long day?
I recharge through quiet connection, whether that’s time in nature, listening to music, or leaning into the small rituals that help me reset after a long day or week. I’m a firm believer in intentional self-care, and I recently spent time on a wellness retreat to reconnect with my own wellbeing and picked up some practical ways to weave it into everyday life. It was invaluable. I genuinely encourage others to do the same; invest in your wellness as it's how you show up as your best self—for you and for the people who rely on you day to day.