Jean Shafiroff: We are all part of something bigger. Digital-cover L'Officiel Online

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30.01.2025
ТЕКСТ: Yelyzaveta Buryak
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Jean Shafiroff is a philanthropist, humanitarian, television host, author, and the writer of the book Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give.  She actively supports numerous social initiatives, particularly in the areas of women’s rights, the protection of underprivileged communities, healthcare, and animal welfare.

In an interview for L’Officiel, we spoke with Jean Shafiroff about philanthropy today and how small actions can have a huge impact on the lives of others.

You hold the official title 'First Lady of Philanthropy of New York.' What encouraged you to become a philanthropist? How did you come to realize this was your path?

As a young girl, I was encouraged to help those in need by both my teachers and parents. My parents were good role models, and so were my teachers. I attended 12 years of Catholic school, where the nuns taught us the importance of giving back. My father was a schoolteacher, and my mother was a stay-at-home mom who volunteered at our school and church. She encouraged me to do the same. My father was very focused on family and education—he expected all of us to attend college and graduate school. These experiences instilled in me a sense of responsibility to contribute to society.

How did your education and early career shape your philanthropic work?

My higher education, travel experiences, and work were key. At Columbia University, I earned a BS in Physical Therapy and later an MBA in Finance. These years equipped me with leadership, organizational, and fundraising skills essential for philanthropy. After college, I worked for a year as a physical therapist at St. Luke's Hospital in New York City, an inner-city hospital where I treated patients living in poverty with serious illnesses. That experience opened my eyes to the depth of suffering in the world. It motivated me to pursue graduate school, and later, I worked on Wall Street as an investment banker. The skills I gained there further prepared me for the work I do now.

How did you transition from your career into full-time philanthropy?

While working on Wall Street, I realized I needed to do more with my life to help those who truly suffered. I began volunteering with various charities, donating resources, and eventually serving on their boards. My involvement expanded to volunteering at my daughters’ schools, which deepened my commitment. Over time, I became more active, hosting events, chairing galas, and serving on multiple charity boards. Today, I dedicate my life to philanthropy.

What does your current philanthropic work involve?

Currently, I serve on seven charity boards, one advisory board, and two honorary boards. Each year, I chair about eight to nine charity galas and host or underwrite many charity events in my homes and other locations. Additionally, I host a television show on philanthropy called Successful Philanthropy. Giving back is my life’s mission. It is deeply fulfilling, and I intend to stay involved for the rest of my life.

What advice would you give to those considering getting involved in philanthropy?

I encourage everyone to get involved. Giving is far more fulfilling than receiving. Start small—volunteer your time, donate what you can, or support a cause close to your heart. Philanthropy is not just about the resources you give but the lives you touch. The rewards are immeasurable.

The number of projects you support as a philanthropist is unbelievable. Which ones are a priority for you at the moment?

I have four areas of focus: women’s rights, the rights of underserved populations, health care, and animal rights. While these are my main interests, I also actively support LGBTQ rights and the arts. Fashion is a particular passion of mine, so I’m proud to serve as a longstanding board member of the Couture Council of the Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology. I love supporting their work and enjoy helping young fashion designers launch their careers.

In your TV show Successful Philanthropy, you’ve interviewed many notable figures, including candidates for the U.S. presidency. Which interviewees turned out to be the most difficult to talk to?

On my TV show Successful Philanthropy, I’ve had the privilege of interviewing a diverse range of people, from celebrities and politicians to fashion designers, charity executives, and billionaire philanthropists. The easiest interviews are with individuals who have extensive media experience and are passionate about discussing their work.

The more challenging interviews are with people who are either extremely shy or have never spoken on television before. To be an engaging guest on a TV show, it takes practice and the ability to leave the audience with a clear, memorable message. Public speaking is truly an art. Personally, I enjoy it and have had the opportunity to practice it extensively throughout my career.

You are the author of Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life by What You Give. Please tell us what this book is about.

The main message of my book is that anyone can become a philanthropist. Even if you don’t have significant financial resources to donate, you can still give your time and knowledge, which are incredibly valuable.

That said, I firmly believe that those with financial means have an obligation to give. Another key message of the book is that giving is deeply rewarding. By helping others, we not only make a positive impact but also experience profound personal satisfaction.

The purpose of writing Successful Philanthropy was to inspire others to get involved in philanthropy and to serve as a practical guide for engaging in this work meaningfully.

How do you champion women’s empowerment in your work?

Women’s rights are extremely important to me. I serve on the board of the New York Women’s Foundation, an organization dedicated to empowering women out of poverty and creating a just and equitable world for them.

One of the reasons I love serving on this board is the incredible impact we make. We fund numerous charities that help create more opportunities for women and their families, fostering positive change in their lives and communities.

Why do you think it’s important to have women in leadership?

Women make up more than half of the world’s population and deserve representation as leaders in government, business, education, and every field. A strong education should be accessible to all women because it opens doors to opportunity.

Parents—both mothers and fathers—should emphasize the value of education to their children. I was fortunate to grow up in a family where I was raised to believe I could achieve just as much as a man could. All women need to hear this message from their parents and teachers.

Women make exceptional leaders, and we’ve seen remarkable examples of female heads of state around the world. My advice to everyone is this: believe in yourself, and you can achieve great things. Work hard, set goals, live an honest life, be kind, and never underestimate your ability to succeed.

Is philanthropy the privilege of wealthy people? Or can people with average incomes also make the world a better place?
Philanthropy is not limited to the wealthy. Anyone can participate in giving back. By volunteering time and knowledge, people without significant financial means can still make a meaningful impact and be considered philanthropists.

That said, I strongly believe that those with wealth have a moral obligation to give back financially to society. This belief is central to my book, "Successful Philanthropy: How to Make a Life By What You Give". It’s a powerful message, and one I hope inspires many to get involved in making the world a better place.

Jean, you are considered a fashion icon and have been featured on many best-dressed lists. Why is fashion so important to you?

Fashion is a passion and a wonderful hobby of mine. Hobbies are essential because they bring joy and add new dimensions to our lives. I love collecting designs from iconic fashion houses like Chanel, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Oscar de la Renta, and Carolina Herrera.

Over the years, I’ve also acquired pieces from talented yet lesser-known designers such as Malan Breton, Victor de Souza, Zang Toi, B Michael, Ese Azenabor, Ron Dyce, and Zac Posen. Supporting young designers at the start of their careers is especially meaningful to me.

I’ve built a significant collection of gowns, and one day, I plan to donate it to a museum. Fashion is more than clothing—it’s a form of art and self-expression that I deeply cherish.

What is your main dream as a philanthropist?

My dream is to inspire others to embrace the giving process. I am especially passionate about encouraging future generations to get involved and feel excited about philanthropy.

I envision a world where people from all socioeconomic backgrounds realize their power to create positive change. The divide between those with resources and those without is far too wide, but philanthropy can help bridge that gap. I dream of a future where poverty and war no longer exist—a peaceful world where differences are accepted, and everyone has access to a quality education and the opportunity to improve their lives.

 

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