Estelle Voyer, Recipient of the 2026 Jean-Robert Nolet Scholarship.

To honour one of its co-founders, BNP Inspire created the Jean-Robert Nolet Scholarship in 2017 to support the training and professional development of philanthropy professionals and students. 

In this spirit, we are pleased to introduce our 2026 recipient: Estelle Voyer, Philanthropic Development Advisor, Faculty of Arts and Science, Université de Montréal 

Holder of a graduate diploma (DESS), Estelle is actively involved in the philanthropic sector, both professionally and personally. She is notably a member of the Young Philanthropists’ Circle of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and serves on the Board of Directors of the Fondation du Cégep de Rosemont. Her journey reflects her interest in the development of the sector and her desire to continue learning and contributing to its evolution. 

Through three questions, discover her profile, her commitments, and her vision of philanthropy.

1. How would you describe the current state of the philanthropic sector? 

In my opinion, Quebec’s philanthropic sector is currently undergoing significant transformation. Organizations are facing increased competition for a limited pool of donors, in an economic context that is also putting pressure on philanthropic commitments. 

However, I believe this reality also represents an opportunity to rethink the way we work. The sector would benefit, in particular, from placing greater emphasis on collaboration between organizations, sharing best practices, and working collectively to develop a stronger philanthropic culture. 

Donor expectations are also evolving, particularly among younger generations. They are seeking greater transparency, want to understand the concrete impact of their contributions, and often wish to become more actively involved with the causes they support. This is encouraging organizations to strengthen accountability, measure impact more effectively, and deepen their relationships with donors. 

Overall, Quebec’s philanthropic sector remains vibrant and dynamic, but it is evolving in a challenging environment. Its ability to focus on authentic relationships, donor retention, and greater collaboration among stakeholders will be essential in moving forward. 

2. How do you see the future of philanthropy? 

I believe the future of philanthropy will first and foremost be relational. In a context where solicitations are increasing, organizations will need to place greater emphasis on the quality and authenticity of their relationships with donors. This means moving away from a transactional, volume-based approach toward one focused on donor retention, active listening, and  long-term relationships building. 

I also believe the future will depend on  our ability to better engage younger  generations and more diverse communities. The intergenerational transfer of wealth that is beginning to take place represents an important opportunity for the sector, which will need to adapt its approaches to the values and expectations of this younger generation of philanthropists. 

Technology will also transform practices. Data, artificial intelligence, and analytical tools will make it possible to better understand donors and personalize approaches, but they must remain in service of human relationships. The judgment, listening skills, and sensitivity of professionals will remain essential. 

In my view, the future of the sector will therefore depend on a more relational and collaborative form of philanthropy, one that is able to integrate new technologies without losing sight of the human element. 

3. Can you tell us about your involvement and your contribution to the future of the sector? 

My philanthropic involvement is reflected both in my professional practice and in my personal commitments. 

I am a member of the Young Philanthropists’ Circle of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, an experience that allows me to better understanding philanthropy from the donor’s perspective, better understand what fosters a sense of belonging and long-term engagement, and connect with a younger generation of philanthropists. 

I also serve on the Board of Directors of the Fondation du Cégep de Rosemont, which allows me to gain insight into another aspect of the sector, particularly governance and organizational strategy. I also dedicate time to supporting smaller organizations that do not always have access to specialized expertise in philanthropic development.

My contribution to the future of the sector includes: 

Supporting donors in a philanthropic journey that is meaningful to them, based on listening, respect for their motivations, and the development of a relationship of trust; 

• Continuously developing my skills and knowledge;
• Maintaining a rigorous and ethical practice that strengthens trust in philanthropy;
• Promoting a more collaborative approach within the sector, based on sharing best practices and exchanges between organizations.

I believe the future of philanthropy is built every day ; through the way we choose to practise our profession and contribute to our communities. This is the direction in which I wish to continue my involvement and contribute to a stronger, more inclusive, and more sustainable sector.