High Impact Philanthropy: Firaaz Azeez Of Humaniti On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy With A Successful & Effective Nonprofit Organization
An Interview with Karen Mangia
A Mission That Moves People: First and foremost, you need a mission and vision that truly inspires. That’s the foundation. If your mission doesn’t stir something in people — if it doesn’t make them feel like they need to be part of it — you won’t get very far. At Humaniti, we’re purpose-driven. Everything we do comes back to one thing: leaving the world better than we found it. That purpose drives us, and it attracts the kind of people — team members, donors, and partners — who share that vision.
For someone who wants to set aside money to establish a Philanthropic Foundation or Fund, what does it take to make sure your resources are being impactful and truly effective? In this interview series, called “How To Create Philanthropy That Leaves a Lasting Legacy” we are visiting with founders and leaders of Philanthropic Foundations, Charitable Organizations, and Non-Profit Organizations, to talk about the steps they took to create sustainable success.
As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Firaaz Azeez.
Firaaz Azeez is widely acknowledged as an agent of change, a community builder, and an inspiring leader deeply committed to community service, partnership building, and philanthropy. For over two decades, Firaaz has actively engaged with various non-profit organizations, serving in various capacities such as volunteer, staff, board member, and director. Appointed as the first Executive Director at Humaniti in December 2020, Firaaz provides strategic leadership and operational guidance to a growing team dedicated to enabling global giving and social impact.
Thank you for making time to visit with us about a ‘top of mind’ topic. Our readers would like to get to know you a bit better. Can you please tell us about one or two life experiences that most shaped who you are today?
The first was my upbringing in a small village in Guyana. I grew up in a poor household, witnessing my mother’s incredible resilience as she raised 11 children while running a shop to support our family. My father, though an accountant by training, dedicated his life to serving the community as a respected religious leader and Imam. People of all backgrounds — Muslims, Hindus, and Christians — would come to him for guidance. Really, he was the first counsellor I ever saw, and I think it’s no mystery or coincidence that I chose a life of spreading compassion considering I witnessed it in my own home with neighbours at a very young age. I didn’t think about it at the time, but growing up in this environment of service and sacrifice shaped my perspective on life. It instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to help others, which has influenced every role I’ve taken in my career. My parents’ decision to leave Guyana in their senior years, solely to give us a better life in Canada, further reinforced my understanding of love and sacrifice.
The second pivotal moment was my father’s passing in 2006. At the time, I had recently left my banking career, and when his health deteriorated, I moved back home to be with him. It kind of woke me up in a certain way because, for all of us, my dad was our rock. He kept the family together. He was incredibly strong — strong in character, strong in patience, and strong in his commitment to others. I hope that I have even a fraction of his patience. When I reflect on the traits that define me, so many of them trace back to him. His passing had a profound effect on me, not just in terms of grief but in the realization that everything comes to an end. I had known him my entire life, and then suddenly, he was gone. That moment changed me — it brought a certain seriousness to my life, not because I had been frivolous before, but because it deepened my sense of purpose. Since then, so much in my life has changed, but the lessons of strength, patience, and service that he left behind continue to shape who I am today.
You are a successful leader. Which three character traits do you think are most instrumental to your success? We would love to hear a few stories or examples.
Firstly, many people talk about success in traditional terms, but I don’t often think of myself in that way. What I do think about is how different traits have shaped my journey and allowed me to contribute meaningfully to the world, especially through the work we do at Humaniti. At the end of the day, success isn’t just about what you achieve, it’s about the impact you leave behind.
The first character trait is my strong personal sense of responsibility. I actually came across my first-ever cover letter from my university days recently, and in it, I had written that my greatest strength was my sense of responsibility. At the time, I don’t think I truly appreciated what that meant, but looking back now, I realize how deeply ingrained it is in me. I wear many hats — leader of an organization, father, son, brother, husband, community leader, friend — and I try to carry each of those roles with integrity and accountability. My father was the same way. I saw that in him, and I believe his faith played a huge role in shaping that characteristic in me as well. Faith grounds us, and for me, it has been the foundation of my responsibility toward others.
The second trait is empathy and compassion. While they are distinct qualities, they are two sides of the same coin. I was raised in a household where community service was a way of life. My parents led with empathy, always putting themselves in others’ shoes and serving their community with kindness. With Humaniti I’ve had the blessing of travelling the world and seeing the needs of people — right now, I’m in Jordan, and I was recently in Bangladesh. No matter where I go, I see the resilience of people in unimaginable situations, and yet, their sense of compassion and generosity remains intact. It’s a reminder that kindness isn’t tied to circumstance — it’s a way of being. I hope that when people interact with me, they see the same empathy and compassion reflected in my actions.
The third key trait is communication. I truly believe that my ability to connect with people, regardless of their background or language, has been one of my greatest strengths. And I know, without a doubt, that I got that from my parents. Whether I’m speaking to someone in my own language or communicating beyond words in a country where I don’t speak the language, I’ve always been able to build relationships and bridge gaps. Communication is fundamental to being human — we’re not meant to exist in isolation. It’s through communication that we understand, learn, and grow.
What’s the most interesting discovery you’ve made since you started at Humaniti?
One of the most profound discoveries I’ve made since joining Humaniti is that, no matter where you go in the world — whether in circles of affluence and privilege or in communities facing extreme poverty and hardship — people are fundamentally the same.
People don’t just want handouts; they want opportunities. In all my travels, I’ve met very few people who simply want to be given things. Whether it was walking through the Geneva Camp in Dhaka, Bangladesh, visiting communities in Balochistan, refugee camps in Jordan, the Rohingya camps, or the Bantustans in South Africa, one thing has remained consistent: the remarkable strength of the human spirit.
The people I’ve met in these places have shown extraordinary character, creativity, and courage. Their resilience in the face of adversity is beyond inspiring. It’s easy to assume that those who have power, wealth, or influence are the ones who carry the greatest strength, but time and time again, I’ve found that true strength lies in the hearts of those who endure the unimaginable and still move forward with dignity. And this discovery has truly reshaped how I see the world.
Can you please tell our readers more about how you or your organization intends to make a significant impact?
Humaniti was founded on the belief that the nonprofit sector needs to evolve. After over two decades in this space, I’ve seen how traditional philanthropy can be stagnant, and our mission is to disrupt that by embracing innovation, strategic partnerships, and technology to create real, measurable impact.
At our core, we aim to leave the world better than we found it. We do this by leveraging expertise, resources, and partnerships — from the United Nations to grassroots organizations — serving vulnerable communities in over 30 countries. Whether it’s emergency relief, healthcare, education, or poverty alleviation, we focus on sustainability and long-term solutions rather than just short-term aid.
What sets Humaniti apart is our emphasis on impact and innovation. We actively seek out new solutions, utilize technology to enhance donor engagement and transparency, and bring together humanitarians who are truly committed to making a difference. By constantly challenging the status quo, we’re ensuring that every effort leads to meaningful, lasting change.
What makes you feel passionate about your causes?
My passion for this work comes from how I was raised — where service, compassion, and caring for your neighbor were fundamental values. When I first joined Humaniti as its first Executive Director in December 2020, I spoke about how we are a proudly Canadian organization that embodies these principles. This foundation of empathy and responsibility drives everything we do.
In a world filled with turmoil and suffering, it’s more important than ever to recognize that we are all in this together. There’s only one earth, and we have a shared duty to protect both the planet and the people on it. That sense of collective responsibility fuels my passion and also attracts like-minded people to Humaniti — those who are committed to being in service to others every single day.
Could you share a story about an individual(s) who has benefitted from your initiatives?
I’ve been blessed to witness incredible moments of hope and transformation through Humaniti’s initiatives. One that stands out happened in South Africa, where I visited a daycare run by a remarkable woman named Mama Teresa. She was providing preschool services and a safe haven for children in one of Johannesburg’s most impoverished and segregated communities. The conditions around them were heartbreaking, yet in that small daycare, there was love, compassion, and joy. The children, despite living in such harsh conditions, ran to greet me with hugs and sang beautiful songs. Their faces lit up with hope, and it reminded me of how love and kindness can truly change lives.
Another deeply moving experience took place in Tanzania, where Humaniti sponsored heart surgeries for children suffering from congenital heart defects. One of the children was a baby, very small and weak, with blue lips from lack of oxygen. I witnessed the surgery firsthand and saw the immediate transformation after the operation — the baby’s lips turned rosy, and I could see the life returning to her. Later, I spoke with the mother, who was overwhelmed with emotion. She said, “I have my child back,” and when I asked for the child’s name, she said “Baraka,” which translates to “Blessing.” It was as if the name itself symbolized the miracle that had just happened. I felt so privileged to be part of that moment.
In Pakistan, I visited a clinic where Humaniti is providing malnutrition treatment to children through RUTF (ready-to-use therapeutic food). I met a mother with a tiny, severely malnourished baby. Since receiving the treatment, her baby had begun to gain weight and show signs of life. When I asked the baby’s name, the mother said, “Dua,” meaning “prayer.” It struck me that in these places where children face the harshest of circumstances, there is always something more — hope, prayer, and the chance for a better life.
As a father, these experiences of witnessing a child’s health restored truly remind me why we do this work. It’s not just about providing aid; it’s about giving hope and a future.
We all want to help and live a life of purpose. What are three actions anyone could take to help address the root cause of the problem you’re trying to solve?
The first and most important step is education. We need to be aware of what’s happening in the world — whether it’s food security, education, access to clean drinking water, or healthcare. It’s easy to feel disconnected from these issues, but the reality is that all the information is available to us. If there’s something that speaks to you — maybe it’s children with congenital heart defects or the refugee crisis — then take the time to research it, understand it, and learn about the challenges and solutions. The more we know, the more we can do.
The second step is action. The most valuable resource we have isn’t money — it’s time. People often think that making a difference requires financial contributions, but some of the most impactful work comes from giving your time. Volunteering, offering your skills, and lending a hand to an organization that aligns with your values, these are all ways to contribute meaningfully. Being on the ground, working alongside communities, and offering even a few hours of your time can change lives — not just theirs, but yours as well.
The third step is sharing. We are social beings, and change happens when we bring others along with us. Once you’ve learned about an issue and have taken steps to get involved, share that experience with your family, friends, colleagues, and community. Many people feel paralyzed when they see suffering in the world, believing they can’t do anything. But even small efforts — whether it’s spreading awareness, organizing a fundraiser, or simply checking in on someone — can have a ripple effect.
At the end of the day, change starts with awareness, grows through action, and spreads through connection. We all have the ability to help — we just have to take that first step.
Based on your experience, what are 5 things people need to create a successful and effective nonprofit that leaves a lasting legacy?
A Mission That Moves People:
First and foremost, you need a mission and vision that truly inspires. That’s the foundation. If your mission doesn’t stir something in people — if it doesn’t make them feel like they need to be part of it — you won’t get very far. At Humaniti, we’re purpose-driven. Everything we do comes back to one thing: leaving the world better than we found it. That purpose drives us, and it attracts the kind of people — team members, donors, and partners — who share that vision.
Collaboration Over Competition:
Too often, nonprofits operate in silos, trying to solve massive global problems alone. That’s never going to work. The reality is, the nonprofit sector can’t fix the world’s suffering by itself. It takes government, civic society, and businesses to work together. That’s why collaboration is at the core of what we do at Humaniti. Strategic partnerships allow us to scale impact in a way that would never be possible alone. We’re not just here to do good — we’re here to make real, systemic change, and that only happens when we work together.
Agility and Adaptability:
The world is constantly changing, and the most effective nonprofits are the ones that can evolve with it. Whether it’s shifting political landscapes, economic downturns, or humanitarian crises, organizations have to be able to pivot — fast. Being adaptable doesn’t mean losing sight of your mission. It means being responsive to what’s happening on the ground. Right now, global aid policies are shifting in a way that will hurt the most vulnerable. Nonprofits that aren’t ready to adjust will struggle to meet those evolving needs. The work is unpredictable, and if you’re too rigid, you’ll get left behind.
Embracing Innovation:
This is a big one. If you’re not innovating — especially in the digital space — you’re going to be left behind. It’s not just about efficiency; it’s about impact. The way we fundraise, the way we engage donors, the way we track and scale our work — all of it is changing. At Humaniti, we’re always looking at how we can use technology to do more, to reach more people, to be more effective. If you’re stuck doing things the way they’ve always been done, you’re not growing. And if you’re not growing, you’re not reaching as many people as you could be.
Putting Donors First:
At the end of the day, impact comes from generosity. Nonprofits need to be donor-aware. Not just donor-focused, but donor-aware. That means understanding how to engage people, how to bring the impact of their giving right to their doorstep. People want to see what their contributions are doing. They want to feel connected to the cause. That’s something we’re always working on at Humaniti — how to bridge that gap and make donors feel like they’re part of something bigger. Because they are.
Has the pandemic changed your definition of success?
Success has always been about one thing for us — leaving the world better than we found it. That hasn’t changed. But the pandemic definitely reinforced what success looks like in practice.
When the world shut down, we didn’t stop. I wasn’t with Humaniti in the early stages of the pandemic, but I was with a local domestic charity, and I saw firsthand what it meant to be on the front lines. The restrictions, the lockdowns — none of that changed the fact that people still needed help. If anything, it made it even clearer: success isn’t just about impact numbers or programs. It’s about showing up, no matter what.
One of the biggest lessons from that time was the importance of staying connected — to the people we serve, to our partners, to our communities. Isolation affected everyone, but the most vulnerable suffered the most. We saw it in senior communities, in low-income families, in frontline workers. People needed each other in ways they hadn’t before. And that’s something we carry with us today — success in the nonprofit space isn’t just about delivering aid, it’s about making sure people know they’re not alone.
So if anything, the pandemic didn’t change our definition of success — it confirmed it. Success is about being there. It’s about making sure, whether in Canada or across the globe, the people who rely on us feel our presence. Because in times of crisis, connection isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s survival.
How do you get inspired after an inevitable setback?
Setbacks are just part of the journey. That’s something I’ve always believed, and it’s something I’ve learned from my parents, my mentors, and so many people around me. The reality is, in the work we do — whether it’s supporting communities, empowering people, or responding to crises — there are always going to be challenges. But just because we can’t do something today doesn’t mean we can’t do it tomorrow.
I don’t think of setbacks as failures. They’re lessons. They’re opportunities. Wherever we are today, whatever challenge we’re facing, it’s preparing us for what’s next. That’s why it’s so important to be present — to focus on the work in front of us, to take in the lessons, and to keep moving forward.
So do I need extra motivation when things don’t go as planned? Not really. Because I know that whatever happens today is just setting us up for something bigger tomorrow.
We are very blessed that very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world who you would like to talk to to share the idea behind your non-profit?
Honestly, I don’t think it’s about one person. It’s not only about people who have power — whether through political influence, wealth, business, or even entertainment — to make a real difference. At the end of the day, the world doesn’t need just one person to step up — it needs more humanity. No pun intended. We’re in a time where suffering is increasing, where political shifts are making it harder for vulnerable communities to survive. So, if I could sit in a room with anyone who holds influence, I’d want to share the mission of Humaniti, not to convince them of anything, but to inspire them.
Because change doesn’t happen all at once. It starts small — one drop that turns into a puddle, that turns into an ocean. And that’s really what we’re trying to do, one step at a time.
You’re doing important work. How can our readers follow your progress online?
You can stay connected with us at Humaniti by following us @wearehumaniti on social media to see the impact of our work in real-time. You can also follow our progress closely by subscribing to our weekly newsletter. This journey isn’t just ours — it’s all of ours.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Humaniti — I appreciate the opportunity to share our story. The work continues, and I hope you’ll be part of it.
Thank you for a meaningful conversation. We wish you continued success with your mission.
High Impact Philanthropy: Firaaz Azeez Of Humaniti On How To Leave A Lasting Legacy With A… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.