Who we are

David Graham

David Graham is the founder of Changing Ideas, Law for Change and the Tenacious Awards.

He originally qualified as an accountant, and has been involved with many different businesses including property, consultancy, technology, retail and manufacturing. Following a varied career, his life had an about turn in 2003 after his son became paralysed. That led him to completing an MA in photojournalism and working with charities before founding Changing Ideas as a charity in 2007.

David’s passion is for backing individuals and organisations who can make a difference, but need resources to be able try things out, to take risks, and achieve impact. He is based in London and Scotland. He was included on the 2024 Big Issue List of Top 100 Changemakers in UK.

Karen Lam

Karen is Head of Charity. She began her career as a consultant in the social sector, advising nonprofits, social enterprises, and grantmaking foundations across the UK and internationally. She specialised in helping organisations define and test impact strategies and operational models to create and sustain change at scale.

Karen also has experience as a grantmaker, having previously worked at The Blue Thread, a family foundation. She has also served as a trustee of CAYSH, a London-based charity supporting young people facing homelessness.