The private banking arm of Standard Chartered yesterday hosted its first discussion forum to address the changing role of women in Asian philanthropy.

Three of Asia's top female philanthropists lead the roundtable, which was attended by 19 people, confirmed Standard Chartered. 

Kavita Ramdas, former president and chief executive of the nonprofit grant-making foundation Global Fund For Women, Jennie Chua, chairman of community chest, and Claire Chiang, chairperson of sustainable business manager Banyan Tree Global Foundation, were the panellists. The audience discussed issues like the challenges female philanthropists could face in the future, as well as the overall role philanthropic women play in Asia. 

The forum was facilitated by Judy Hsu, global head of wealth management at the UK bank.

"We believe that with wealth comes responsibility. Our women in philanthropy roundtable offers the opportunity to network with others interested in the topic, as well as engage with three high profile leaders in the field,” said Hsu in a statement. 

Recent research conducted by Standard Chartered revealed that almost 60 per cent of the women questioned regard charitable deeds as a measure of personal success.

The findings also expose the concept that female philanthropists value collaboration and seek input from those who share similar expertise on a subject.

“The new initiative is a timely and relevant platform that meets and supports the changing needs of our clients, and we hope that through it, we will raise awareness, inspire involvement, and make giving easier,” said Hsu. The bank could not confirm whether the roundtable would become a regular event.