A charity built by the insights industry, for the world.

✽ ABOUT

At Esomar Foundation, we recognize the transformative power of the research community to drive global change, and we’re here to harness that potential.

Purpose

To turn the expertise of the global insights community into a force for good.

Mission

We mobilise the skills, knowledge, and passion of the global insights community to support charities, empower future researchers, and drive meaningful social impact.

Vision

A future where every insight has the power to improve lives and every researcher has the opportunity to contribute to a better world.

The Board & Volunteers

  • Karin Lieshout

    PRESIDENT

  • Phyllis Macfarlane

    TREASURER

  • Angela Canin

    SECRETARY

  • Dave Philips

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Mayke Harkema

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Anna Alu

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Jon Arthurs

    BOARD MEMBER

  • Lucy Davison

    SUPERVISORY BOARD

  • Martha Llobet

    SUPERVISORY BOARD

  • Dinisha Cherodian

    ONEFORCE MEMBER

  • Irina Beznea

    ONEFORCE MEMBER

  • Khalipha Ntloko

    ONEFORCE MEMBER

Our Story

2013

The birth of the ESOMAR Foundation

The ESOMAR Foundation was founded in 2013 by ESOMAR, the global association for market, social and opinion research, with a mission to harness the power of research to drive social good. It was established by then Director General of ESOMAR, Finn Raben, following a moving presentation at the 2012 ESOMAR Congress, which shared the tragic story of two researchers who were killed while conducting research in Afghanistan.

The first President of the Foundation was Gunilla Broadbent, who played a crucial role in shaping its early direction. Since its inception, the Foundation has become a vital force in using industry expertise and generous donations of time and money to improve lives through education, aid, sustainability initiatives, and gifting time and research expertise to charities.

The early years

Establishing a purpose

The Foundation was born out of a simple yet powerful idea — leveraging the knowledge and skills of researchers to create a positive impact beyond the corporate world. It was established to provide financial assistance, training and educational opportunities to those in need, while also supporting researchers facing hardship.

Over time, the Foundation expanded its scope to include sustainability initiatives and industry-wide social responsibility efforts, under the tagline “Making a Difference”.

2017 — today

A decade of impact

  • Significant funds have been raised through donations, auctions and corporate support.

  • Partnerships with key industry players have expanded access to scholarships and relief efforts.

  • New board members and initiatives continue to shape the Foundation's future.

  • Presence at events like the ESOMAR Congress has strengthened our profile, engaging professionals globally to contribute to the cause.