What the Project Is: Adara Group Overview
Adara Group believes in using the power of business and partnership to change the lives of people in poverty. It envisions a world in which each and every person has access to quality health, education, and other essential services, no matter where they live. With an approach that bridges worlds, Adara Group melds international development work with innovative for‐purpose business models to drive transformation. The initiative clearly demonstrates how compassion, teamwork, and mutual respect can create a lasting impact on communities facing extreme challenges.
Main Benefits and Impact
Key figures and facts highlight the extensive benefits of this project:
- Over AUD $25 million donated by Adara businesses to support development projects since inception.
- More than AUD $47 million contributed by donors, ensuring that project-related costs receive direct funding.
- Since 1998, over 600,000 people living in poverty have been positively affected.
- The initiative operates across international borders in countries such as Nepal and Uganda, showcasing a far-reaching impact.
- A unique model where 100% of donations go directly to project costs, letting communities tap into quality health and education services.
A Dual Model: Development and For-Purpose Businesses
At the core of this initiative lies a dual model that centers on Adara Development and its complementing businesses, Adara Partners and Adara Advisors. Adara Development is an international development organisation with expertise in Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, as well as Remote Community Development. Since its establishment in 1998, the organisation has worked diligently in Nepal and Uganda to bring essential services to remote areas. Meanwhile, Adara Partners and Adara Advisors operate as ‘for purpose’ businesses rather than profit-driven entities. Their sole objective is to fund Adara Development’s administration and emergency project costs. This clever structure means that every single donation reaches the ground in project-related activities, keeping the process transparent and fully dedicated to improving lives.
A Proud History and Rich Story
The story of Adara Group dates back to 1998, when founder Audette Exel AO established Adara Development together with Adara Advisors. Born out of a desire to show that the power of business and partnership can jumpstart transformation for communities in need, the organisation has since built a remarkable legacy. From those early days, there has been an unshakeable commitment to bridging gaps between worlds – a role that has led to influential relationships, knowledge sharing, and sustainable change. This rich history is not just a timeline; it is a testament to what can be achieved when purpose and passion drive meaningful collaborations.
Core Values and Principles
The guiding values of Adara Group drive every decision and initiative. The commitment to COMPASSION reflects a belief in supporting vulnerable women, children, and communities living in extreme poverty. TEAMWORK is celebrated, with a strong focus on open, honest communication and a supportive work environment where mistakes are seen as opportunities to learn. MUTUAL RESPECT stands at the forefront, emphasising the importance of listening to diverse perspectives and celebrating diversity. The principles of INTEGRITY & EXCELLENCE ensure fairness and a high standard in every action undertaken, while PASSION underscores the energy, optimism, and dedication seen in every endeavour. Lastly, UNCONVENTIONALITY encapsulates the creative and bold strategies that continuously push boundaries, encouraging innovative approaches to age-old challenges.
Strategic Vision and Future Horizons
Adara Group’s strategy is constructed on strong foundations with broad horizons in view. The strategic theme, “Strong Foundations, Broad Horizons,” acknowledges that, as the organisation scales up its impact and knowledge sharing, it is leveraging a 25-year history of deep service delivery. This blend of past experience and forward-thinking strategy positions the organisation as both a guardian of quality health and education services and a pioneer in remote community development. Sustainability is built into this very framework, ensuring that each step taken today lays the groundwork for a brighter and more equitable tomorrow.
Project Impact and Sustainability Goals
- SDG 1 – No Poverty
- SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being
- SDG 4 – Quality Education
- SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals
Commitment to Sustainability and Reconciliation
Sustainability is not an afterthought but a central element of Adara Group’s operations. The Sustainability Committee leads and coordinates environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments with a proactive approach. Alongside this is the Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), which underlines an ongoing dedication to integrating the principles of reconciliation into the fabric of the organisation. These initiatives work hand in hand, ensuring that every project is not only impactful on a humanitarian level but also sustainable and respectful of local cultures and histories. By bridging worlds and fostering genuine partnerships, Adara Group continues to light the way towards a future where quality health and education services are a universal reality.
