Giles Gunesekera OAM

Giles Gunesekera OAM is the Founder and CEO of Global Impact Initiative, a UN Global Compact LEAD company designing investment strategies that deliver both financial returns and measurable social outcomes. With more than 30 years’ experience across finance, governance and community development, Giles has worked globally with sovereign wealth funds, NGOs, governments, and institutional investors. In 2023, he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for service to social welfare and the community. He also holds a Fellowship from Monash University and has been recognised by the University of Oxford for creating a sustainable, impact-focused business model. Giles is currently completing his PhD at the University of Technology Sydney, where his research focuses on embedding impact investment in scalable, community-led housing solutions for marginalised communities, including Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, and migrant and refugee women. His work has been presented at Global Conferences. Giles serves on multiple boards and UN advisory groups spanning human rights, health, sustainability and education, and is deeply committed to systemic change that empowers communities and advances the UN Sustainable Development Goals.