What?
Myth Smashers was established in 2017 to amplify new and diverse voices in the fundraising sector, giving opportunities for fundraisers to smash a fundraising ‘myth’ in front of a large audience. One of the most popular sessions at the annual FIA Conference, Myth Smashers has been led by Gavin Coopey FFIA who has made an immense impact on each and every participant’s career.
Each year we invite the next emerging fundraising voices to take to the stage at the 2027 FIA Conference.
When?
Hosted on the main stage on Friday 26 February from 9am, Myth Smashers is one of the Conference’s most popular sessions, giving new and emerging talent the opportunity to share their ideas, challenge conventional thinking and show the sector what they have to offer.
How?
Each selected presenter gets just six minutes on the plenary stage to tackle one of the biggest myths they heard when beginning their career in fundraising.
Your challenge is simple: share your insights, inspire the audience and smash your myth.
At the end of the session, the audience votes for the best topic and presentation.
Who?
Myth Smashers is designed for emerging speakers who are ready to step outside their comfort zone.
You should apply if you:
- Are currently a fundraising practitioner in a charitable organisation
- Have never presented on the main stage at a conference before
- Have a fundraising myth you are ready to challenge
- Want to share your knowledge and ideas with the wider fundraising community
You do not need to be an experienced presenter. That is the point!
Why?
Once every Myth Smasher has presented, the FIA Conference audience will vote for their favourite topic and presentation.
The winner will receive:
- Free registration to FIA Conference 2028
- The opportunity to host Myth Smashers at the 2028 Conference
- The opportunity to turn your presentation into a case study for publication on the SOFII website
Think you have a myth worth smashing?
Applications close Friday 30 October 2026 at 5.00pm AEDT.
