We could talk for days on the humanitarian achievements of Philip Wollen. Hopefully the following will help you in knowing more about Philip, a living beacon to kindness.

By the age of 34 Philip was a Vice President of Citibank and General Manager of Citicorp. He worked and lectured in many countries. At age 40, he set up his own successful advisory company. The late judge, Justice James Gorman, speaking at his birthday party said, “Phil has certainly had a successful life so far. But you have seen nothing yet. His future life will be significant.

The past 16 years have proven this to be true.

Philip’s humanitarian and community work is powerful and private. In the 90’s he conducted a social experiment on himself called, “reverse tithing”. Instead of giving away 10% of his income, he would give away 90%. He built a complex mathematical model that “proves” that he can achieve his goal of giving away everything he posses with ‘warm hands’ and die broke. “It is just a matter of timing!” Philip jokes.

Philip actually gives away far in excess of that 90% each year.

He quotes JFK, “One man can make a difference and every man should try.”

Philip does not fund-raise. The only money he gives away is his own. He supports 250 plus groups in over 30 countries. He provides them with money, advice and facilities.

When the tsunami hit he was the first to assist with funds into the ravaged region. When the Bali bombing occurred he was first off the mark to donate funds. When Lebanon was bombed, he was again the first to transfer funds to assist with evacuations. When the 42 West Papuan refugees were granted visas in Australia he was the first to come forward with funds and office accommodation to assist in their assimilation. There are pages of instances such as these over the past 16 years of Philip’s life.

He spots a need in the community and finds a way to fill it. He says, “governments can’t do everything and it is “un-Australian” to expect it. Individuals, on the other hand, can do anything.”

The Winsome Constance Trust is named in honour of he beloved mother and grandmother. Today it is one of the largest organisations of its kind in the world. The Mission Statement reads… “to show kindness towards all living beings and enshrine it as a recognisable trait in the Australian character and culture.”