‘Women Like to Lead with Impact’: Jessica De Rothschild on Her Female-Centric Approach to Philanthropy

Why It Matters

As women assume greater control over wealth, female‑focused giving can reshape global philanthropy and accelerate education‑driven development in refugee populations. The campaign demonstrates how targeted scholarships can multiply social impact across displaced communities.

Key Takeaways

• Building Better Futures aims to raise $15 million for 1,000 refugee women scholarships.
• 85% of women in high‑net‑worth households drive philanthropic decisions.
• Women are projected to inherit 70% of wealth in the coming decades.
• DAFI is the longest‑running refugee education program, aligning with Rothschild’s values.
• Educated refugee women often return to uplift their communities and rebuild nations.

Pulse Analysis

The rise of women as primary decision‑makers in high‑net‑worth families is reshaping the charitable landscape. Studies show that 85% of women in these households influence where money goes, and the looming Great Wealth Transfer predicts women will control roughly 70% of future assets. This demographic shift encourages funders to design programs that resonate with female donors, emphasizing collaboration, long‑term impact, and legacy building. By tailoring initiatives to women’s preferences, philanthropists can unlock deeper engagement and sustained giving, a trend that is already evident in elite circles such as the Rothschild family foundation.

At the heart of Jessica de Rothschild’s strategy is the DAFI Scholarship Programme, the world’s longest‑running education effort for refugees under UNHCR. Recognizing that education is a catalyst for empowerment, the Building Better Futures campaign targets 1,000 university scholarships for young refugee women, seeking $15 million in donations. The focus on women addresses cultural barriers that often limit their access to higher education, while also ensuring that scholarship recipients become agents of change in their home regions. By investing in female scholars, the campaign aims to generate a multiplier effect: educated women return to their communities, mentor peers, and contribute to post‑conflict reconstruction.

The broader implication is a shift from charity‑centric models toward legacy‑oriented philanthropy. De Rothschild emphasizes that supporting refugee women is not merely an act of generosity but a strategic investment in societal stability. As more women control wealth, their propensity to volunteer, serve on boards, and mentor aligns with collaborative, impact‑first approaches. This evolution promises a more resilient, inclusive philanthropic ecosystem where education‑driven initiatives like DAFI become the norm rather than the exception, fostering sustainable development across displaced populations.