​​​​​​​​​​​The Charity Governance Conference 2024, themed "Trust Matters", was held on 2 October 2024 and brought together industry experts and thought leaders to discuss public trust in charitable organisations. Organised by the Charity Council, in partnership with the Securities Investors Association (Singapore) (“SIAS”) and the Singapore University of Social Sciences (“SUSS”), the conference provided a platform for attendees to gain actionable insights and network with peers.​​

​​​	​Minister Edwin Tong delivered a keynote speech, announcing three significant initiatives aimed at promoting and maintaining public trust in the charity sector: An ESG Playbook for Charities, co-developed with KPMG Singapore, to support charities on their ESG journey. The Playbook offers practical, tailored steps designed to align with charities operational needs at every stage of their ESG journey. A pilot programme with Pro Bono SG to provide mediation services for smaller charities on a pro bono basis. This programme aims to assist charities that pass a means test in resolving disputes. A partnership with WongPartnership LLP to develop guidance on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) policies. This collaboration will help charities enhance their skillsets, raise awareness, and develop systems to mitigate and protect against financial crimes. Additionally, the Office of COC is also collaborating with Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) and TT Foundation Advisors, Temasek Trust's philanthropy advisory services arm, to offer subsidised screening services for all charities.​​ ​ ​Watch the full speech here by Minister Edwin Tong.​ Read the full speech here by Minister Edwin Tong.​​
​	​Ms Theresa Goh, Chairperson of the Charity Council, delivered her welcome speech focusing on building public trust in charities and how charities can strengthen public trust by focusing on these three key areas: mission and impact, organisational character, and communicating financial stewardship. Ms Goh also shared about the resources made available to charities such as the Charities Capability Fund and Shared Services Initiative. Watch the full speech here by Ms Theresa Goh.​ Read the full speech here by Ms Theresa Goh.​
​	The conference featured two morning panel discussions:
​	"Drivers and Destroyers of Public Trust​" Moderated by Steven Chia, Member of the Charity Council, this panel examined factors contributing to trust, threats undermining it, and strategies for trust restoration. Watch the panel discussion "Drivers and Destroyers of Public Trust"​​​​
​	​"Power of Trust​" Moderated by Martin Tan, CEO of The Majurity Trust Limited, this discussion explored the influence of a trusted brand and its cultivation at organisational and interpersonal levels. Watch the panel discussion Power of Trust
​ ​ ​	In the afternoon, three concurrent workshops were held: ​"Drivers and Destroyers of Public Trust​" This workshop focused on strategies for trust-building throughout the charity lifecycle and effective communication methods. Participants learned about tools to sustain public trust and explored practical approaches to enhancing their organisation's credibility.​ Watch the workshop "​Drivers and Destroyers of Public Trust" ​"Can I Trust You?​​" This session explored the role of technology, AI, and cybersecurity in enhancing trust and protecting organisational integrity in the digital age. Attendees discussed the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies in maintaining transparency and trust.​ Download the presentation slides "Can I Trust You?" ​"Building Trust in your Brand​" This workshop discussed best practices for cultivating a trusted brand and fostering enduring trust with donors and stakeholders. Participants learned about effective branding strategies and techniques to create lasting connections with their audience​.​ Watch the workshop "Building Trust in your Brand"

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​​​​​The conference provided valuable insights and practical tools for charities to enhance their governance, build trust, and increase their impact in the community. The diverse range of speakers and panellists, representing various sectors offered a broad perspective on trust-building in the charity sector. Their expertise and experiences shared during the discussions and workshops provided attendees with a wealth of knowledge and actionable strategies to implement in their own organisations.​

​​​​​​​​Overall, the Charity Governance Conference 2024 succeeded in its aim to equip charitable organisations with the necessary tools and insights to navigate the complex landscape of public trust.

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