In an era where massive, corporate-style charities dominate the philanthropy landscape, Rachel Kolisi is intentionally stepping back to the grassroots. The acclaimed author, MC, and humanitarian has finally opened up about her decision to exit the prominent Kolisi Foundation, revealing how a desire for immediate, hands-on impact sparked her latest venture: The Falling Forward Foundation.
Sitting down with host Alberto Lidji on the globally recognized Do One Better Podcast, Rachel dropped rare insights into the behind-the-scenes realities of elite non-profits, the toxic competition for funding, and her vision for a collaborative future in South Africa.
“Too Corporate, Too Slow”: The Need for Agility
While expressing immense gratitude for her time at the Kolisi Foundation, Rachel admitted that as the organisation scaled, it inevitably inherited the bureaucratic weight of large-scale corporate NGOs. For a leader driven by instant problem-solving, the red tape became restrictive.
“I found that it was further and further away from the way I wanted to work… losing the ability to see an issue and address an issue immediately,” Rachel shared. “Larger charities may spend months completing paperwork before fixing something as simple as a damaged roof. I want to respond to urgent needs without unnecessary delays.”
Breaking Down the Silos of Philanthropy
Rachel pointed out a glaring flaw in the current non-profit model: a lack of unity caused by a fierce scramble for financial backing.
“The non-profit sector often works in silos, and there is very little collaboration because organisations are after the same funding. It can sometimes become a very competitive environment.”
During a brief hiatus between her foundation roles, Rachel discovered countless micro-foundations changing lives across South Africa in total anonymity. Instead of starting from scratch, her new vehicle, the Falling Forward Foundation, is built entirely to amplify these hidden gems.
Rather than creating brand-new initiatives, Falling Forward acts as a massive megaphone, using Rachel’s highly visible public platform to direct resources, eyes, and volunteer power toward community leaders who are already doing the groundwork.
What’s Next: The Falling Forward Documentary Tour
To launch this movement, Rachel is inviting the public into her most personal transition yet through The Rachel Kolisi Falling Forward Official Documentary Screening Experience.
The documentary tour will travel to major cities and provinces across Southern Africa. Each screening will be paired with an exclusive, live fireside conversation, allowing audiences to engage directly with Rachel about how everyday citizens can seamlessly plug into community upliftment.
