ENAR Foundation powers up the Anti-Racism movement across Europe. We have the knowledge and capacity to support and empower organisations and activists fighting and making a difference for racialised communities throughout the continent.
Are you gathering support for the Racial and Economic Justice Investment (REJI) Fund?
"We are at the very start of the REJI Fund development but have seen already that the idea is attracting interest – from potential beneficiaries and supporters alike. The next months will show how this interest converts into tangible partnerships and growth of the fund."
The most recent ambitious and impactful pilot initiative of ENAR Foundation is the Racial and Economic Justice Investment Fund (REJI). We connect with and collect funds from like-minded investors and stakeholders. ENAR Foundation has secured $1 million from The Climate Finance Fund and is looking for other social impact investors to develop the REJI Fund.
How do you plan on making a difference in 2024 and beyond?
"2024 is the year where we hope to establish more partnerships and ensure sustainability for current and new programmes. It will be also the year when we get started with some very new frameworks, like the REJI Fund, which will position the Foundation in new places. With reaching new kinds of beneficiaries we will be able to make a difference in more sectors and for more grassroots communities."
Is it time for celebration now or is there more work to do?
"The work in front of us looks quite enormous, in particular as we see a disturbing increase of racism and discrimination in Europe. We will need to continue finding new ways to support the shrinking activism space, to combat the normalised hate speech and scapegoating, to counter the growing exploitation of marginalised communities. And for that we have to keep growth and innovation going!"
What pushes you to build a systemically inclusive society and fight for human rights?
"Funnily enough, the older I get, the more idealistic I become. It was a combination of experiences as a volunteer, as an educator and as a migrant that made me into a mission-driven person and professional. Once you see that your work can bring life-changing impact to others, there is no return from the idealistic route…"
Izabela Jurczik-Arnold is ENAR Foundation’s Development and Granting Officer. With 2 years on the job, her role has been rather versatile in the starting phase of the Foundation’s development, from grant and programme management, fundraising and donor relations, finances, to setting up internal structures and processes, and hiring new team members.
