The PM Podcast: How To Make Magic – A Conversation with Roger Ali

Episode Release Date: June 21, 2025

Host: Jay Frost | Guest: Roger Ali | Produced by Jack Frost | Powered by DonorSearch

Introduction

In the enlightening episode titled "How To Make Magic: A Conversation with Roger Ali," Jay Frost engages with Roger Ali, a luminary in nonprofit leadership and the Chair of the AFP Global Board. With over two decades of experience, Roger has spearheaded teams that have successfully raised more than $150 million through innovative capital campaigns and major gift strategies. His extensive background includes pivotal roles at Niagara Health Foundation, Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation, and the Bishop Strachan School Foundation. Currently, as an independent consultant and Senior Associate with S. Sutton and Associates, Roger continues to influence nonprofits across various sectors with his expertise in governance, major gifts, campaign strategy, and staff development.

Early Life and Cultural Heritage

Roger Ali's journey begins in Trinidad, where he was born into a family of Indian descent. His great-grandfather immigrated to Trinidad as an indentured laborer, contributing to the region's rich cultural tapestry.

Roger Ali [01:56]: "I'm an Indo Korean, Caribbean Canadian, if that's sort of the proper sort of description."

Despite studying Nicaragua in high school geography, Roger clarifies that his roots are firmly planted in Trinidad, highlighting a deep connection to his Caribbean heritage. This multicultural upbringing laid the foundation for his global outlook and adaptability.

Family Influence and Upbringing

Roger attributes much of his professional ethos to his close-knit family. His mother served as a nurse, while his father worked as an accountant for an oil company. This middle-class backdrop provided stability and instilled values of hard work and community service.

Roger Ali [05:39]: "We made time and it was part of our weekly lives to go to church and to be involved and volunteer."

The family's active participation in church and volunteering introduced Roger to the principles of philanthropy early on. Volunteering to feed the homeless and engage with the elderly at the Home for the Aged were formative experiences that subtly guided him toward a career in nonprofit work.

Migrating to Canada and Discovering Hamilton

At the age of 50, Roger made the significant decision to move to Canada, specifically Hamilton, drawn by a visit with his mother that ignited his interest in the city and McMaster University.

Roger Ali [12:58]: "Hamilton at the time was very much, I would call a blue collar sort of industrial town. And it's...gone through many iterations, but for me, it was very...multicultural."

Hamilton's vibrant, multicultural environment and the presence of McMaster University made it an appealing place for Roger to start anew. The city's sense of community and multicultural fabric resonated with his own experiences, making the transition smoother and more welcoming.

University Life and Entering Fundraising

Roger’s academic pursuit in geography and economics at McMaster University unexpectedly steered him into the world of fundraising. An invitation to join the Alumni in Development team marked his foray into fundraising, where he excelled as a student caller and later delved into prospect research.

Roger Ali [15:08]: "I was looking for a part-time job that had some flexibility and would, you know, pay the bills... but I was attracted to the people contact."

His innate ability to connect with people and the joy of engaging conversations fueled his passion for fundraising. This early exposure not only honed his skills but also set the trajectory for his lifelong commitment to philanthropy.

Building a Successful Career in Philanthropy

Roger’s accidental yet serendipitous entry into fundraising blossomed into a devoted career. Starting with United Way, he climbed the ranks, holding C-suite positions and leading major campaigns across healthcare philanthropy.

Roger Ali [25:33]: "I think the experience at the university gave me that stepping stone to be a development officer at United Way."

His unwavering dedication to the missions of the organizations he served, coupled with strong mentorship, allowed Roger to remain committed to the philanthropic sector despite its often transient workforce.

Leadership and Cultivating Team Culture

Central to Roger’s leadership philosophy is the creation of an inclusive and supportive team culture. He emphasizes the importance of giving every team member a voice, fostering an environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth.

Roger Ali [31:24]: "You have to build a team culture, one in which everyone has a voice."

Roger outlines key ingredients for effective leadership:

• Inclusivity: Ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.
• Fun and Engagement: Balancing hard work with enjoyable interactions.
• Supportive Infrastructure: Providing the necessary tools and resources for success.
• Tolerance for Mistakes: Encouraging learning from errors to foster continuous improvement.

This approach not only enhances team morale but also drives collective success in fundraising endeavors.

Advocacy, Inclusion, and AFP's Role

As the Chair of the AFP Global Board, Roger is at the forefront of advocating for diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (IDEA) within the nonprofit sector. He is dedicated to creating spaces where all members feel a sense of belonging, addressing both personal and organizational challenges related to inclusion.

Roger Ali [36:20]: "It is part of my commitment as the AFP Global Board Chair to create spaces where people feel like they belong."

Roger discusses AFP’s multifaceted role:

• Advocacy: Partnering with organizations like the National Council of Nonprofits to define and promote the sector’s narrative.
• Education and Professional Development: Offering resources and training to uphold ethical standards.
• Inclusivity Initiatives: Continuously working on creating environments where diverse voices are heard and valued.

He acknowledges the complexities of navigating geopolitical pressures and differing priorities across regions but remains steadfast in AFP’s commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive community.

Global Citizenship and Future Vision

Roger embodies global citizenship through his efforts to connect AFP chapters worldwide, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. He employs storytelling and active listening to bridge cultural gaps and encourage collaboration among diverse groups.

Roger Ali [49:04]: "It means bringing... a connection for AFP to that chapter or to that group."

Looking ahead, Roger plans to continue his mission on belonging beyond his current term as AFP Chair. He aims to influence broader nonprofit initiatives, particularly in global health and climate change, while remaining open to expanding his advocacy through continued engagement with AFP chapters and other organizations.

Conclusion

Roger Ali’s journey from Trinidad to becoming a pivotal leader in Canadian philanthropy underscores the profound impact of cultural heritage, family values, and serendipitous career paths. His dedication to fostering inclusive, supportive environments and his strategic advocacy efforts within AFP highlight the essence of making magic in the nonprofit sector. As he continues to champion diversity and global collaboration, Roger remains a beacon of inspiration for changemakers striving to reshape the world through ethical and impactful fundraising.

Notable Quotes:

• Roger Ali [01:56]: "I'm an Indo Korean, Caribbean Canadian, if that's sort of the proper sort of description."
• Roger Ali [05:39]: "We made time and it was part of our weekly lives to go to church and to be involved and volunteer."
• Roger Ali [12:58]: "Hamilton at the time was very much, I would call a blue collar sort of industrial town. And it's...gone through many iterations, but for me, it was very...multicultural."
• Roger Ali [15:08]: "I was looking for a part-time job that had some flexibility and would, you know, pay the bills... but I was attracted to the people contact."
• Roger Ali [25:33]: "I think the experience at the university gave me that stepping stone to be a development officer at United Way."
• Roger Ali [31:24]: "You have to build a team culture, one in which everyone has a voice."
• Roger Ali [36:20]: "It is part of my commitment as the AFP Global Board Chair to create spaces where people feel like they belong."
• Roger Ali [49:04]: "It means bringing... a connection for AFP to that chapter or to that group."

Produced by Jack Frost | Theme Music by Jay Taylor | Courtesy of Epidemic Sound