Across the globe, there are individuals who dedicate their wealth, influence, and time to improving society. Their philanthropic efforts drive progress in fields such as access to education, medical research, poverty alleviation, disaster relief, and environmental protection.

There is no single definitive global ranking of philanthropists; however, based on public donation records, impact, and global recognition, this article introduces ten influential philanthropists, ranked from #10 to #1.

10. Leonardo DiCaprio



Focus: Climate change, wildlife and environmental conservation
Beyond his acting career, DiCaprio founded the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation in 1998. He has donated over $100 million to environmental conservation, supports wildlife protection programs, and speaks at UN climate conferences.

9. Dolly Parton



Focus: Education, public health
The iconic country music star founded the Imagination Library, which has provided over 200 million books to children worldwide. She also publicly funded COVID-19 vaccine research.

8. Mark Zuckerberg & Priscilla Chan



Focus: Education, medical research, scientific advancement
Through the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI), the couple pledged to donate 99% of their wealth during their lifetime. Their long-term goal: “to cure, prevent, or manage all diseases within this century.”

7. MacKenzie Scott



Focus: Social equity, women’s rights, education, non-profits support
Known for her rapid, trust-based giving model, she has donated billions of dollars without strings attached to non-profit organizations around the world. Her approach is considered transformative in modern philanthropy.

6. Michael Bloomberg



Focus: Public health, education reform, climate action
The former New York City mayor and business leader has donated more than $10 billion to global causes through Bloomberg Philanthropies, emphasizing environmental protection and city innovation.

5. Warren Buffett



Focus: Education, medical research, poverty alleviation
One of the world’s most successful investors, Buffett has pledged to donate over 99% of his wealth to charity. He is also co-founder of the Giving Pledge, encouraging billionaires to commit most of their wealth to philanthropy.

4. Oprah Winfrey



Focus: Education, women’s empowerment, humanitarian aid
A media legend whose philanthropy reflects her personal values. She built a Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa, supports education programs, and frequently uses her platform to spotlight humanitarian issues.

3. George Soros



Focus: Human rights, democracy, education
Through the Open Society Foundations, Soros has donated more than $17 billion to support democratic institutions, education, and freedom of expression around the world.

2. Bill Gates & Melinda French Gates



Focus: Medical innovation, infectious disease prevention, education
Their foundation — the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation — is the largest private philanthropic organization in the world. Their work in vaccine development and global disease prevention has helped save countless lives.

1. Nelson Mandela



Focus: Peace, human rights, education and social justice
A global icon who fought to end apartheid in South Africa. After serving as president, Mandela founded the Nelson Mandela Foundation to promote education and social equality. His legacy continues to inspire philanthropic movements worldwide.

Conclusion

Philanthropy is more than donating money — it is a commitment to act.
The individuals on this list use their wealth, influence, and vision to address global challenges and improve lives.

Their work reminds us that kindness scales:

  • A major donation can build a hospital.
  • A small act can change someone’s future.

Every contribution matters.

Your choices, no matter how small, can be someone’s hope.