Trust Conference 2025
It was a thought provoking two days at the annual Trust Conference 2025, the flagship forum hosted by the Thomson Reuters Foundation, which focuses on global challenges at the intersection of media freedom, technology, law and responsible business. Panels featured leading journalists, lawyers, and innovators developing practical strategies to defend civic space. The discussions made me reflect more profoundly on innate human traits such as creativity, critical thinking and problem solving in this age of rising technology.
It was truly great to see such a diverse mix of delegates, drawing from media, press, private and public sectors, and civil society. This convergence of perspectives is vital, and the strong representation of social entrepreneurs and innovators in areas like freedom of speech, democracy, and access to justice was particularly encouraging.
The day was packed with insight. Discussions around the rapid rise of AI, the fragility of our democracies, and innovative solutions for human endeavour were both thought provoking and at times starkly factual.
A significant portion of the conference explored the transformative potential and inherent risks of (AI), specifically how it can be used to scale and expand access to justice, while also addressing the threats it poses to human rights and democratic governance.
The opening panel offered a powerful and encouraging view of the media landscape. Jelani Cobb, Dean of Columbia University's Journalism School, struck an optimistic note by celebrating the innovation and creativity that is flourishing within the field of journalism, even as it navigates significant challenges.
Adding to this discussion, Carmella Boykin from the Washington Post shared valuable insights on how established, legacy media organisations can successfully adapt and innovate. Her focus was on ensuring they remain relevant and effectively connect with younger audiences.
Sigrid van Aken, CEO of the Postcode Lottery Group, championed a critical funding model of long-term, unrestricted, trust-based funding as the only way to enable real change. This approach emphasises stability and autonomy for organisations on the ground.
Echoing the sentiment that action must supersede talk, Melanie Hui, CEO of Luminate, urged the sector to move beyond rhetoric, stating simply: "We need to stop talking about collaborating, and actually do collaboration."
The overarching message was clear, as civil society innovates and adapts under immense pressure, the entities that fund them must equally evolve their strategies moving toward trust, flexibility, and genuine partnership.
It left me with a strong takeaway about the core of our work at the Dragonfly Trust- leadership. More than ever, we need leaders across all sectors from tech to government to community organisations who are focused on bringing out the best of humanity. The challenges discussed today can only be met with an intentional commitment to compassion, collaboration and action.
Written by Jakira Khanam, Head of Partnerships, Philanthropy