When I began to ponder the exceptional female role models and philanthropy icons in an effort to select a standout, one who embodies grace, integrity, and selflessness who made the art of giving back equally as stunning as her external beauty, only the inimitable Princess Diana could truly define the Bon Vivant credo of Vivanista: Living well. Doing good. Because in this endeavor, I feel it is necessary to set our standards to her level: an exquisite woman and mother who survived dysfunctionality like us all but who rose above it with dignity and grace while always giving back to those in need.

To underscore the significance of how Vivanista is setting out to revolutionize the philanthropy industry, it is imperative that we define our maxim and how we, as women of great power, give back while simultaneously enjoying the luxuries that we have so luckily been afforded. For some, living well equals acquisition: obtaining as much for oneself as possible out of a sense of entitlement. For others, living well means sharing your wealth and gifts with others knowing you are only as good as that which you give. We, at Vivanista, seek as members those in the latter demographic – those who are defined not by their material wealth but, rather, by their will to give, often times, beyond their means.

To become a Vivanista member and a true Bon Vivant requires the ability as a woman to share. And the most invaluable asset as women that we can share is our knowledge. Because when we share our knowledge, our wisdom, our experiences, we empower one another. In a sense, every woman is philanthropic. It is in our DNA to give and nurture. But it is Vivanistas who take their sense of charity to a new level.

I invite you, the women of Vivanista, to ask not what Vivanista can do for you, but what you can do for Vivanista? (Share Comments Below)

[Photos from Rosi via Flickr]