John Studzinski CBE

John Studzinski CBE is one of the most creative and entrepreneurial philanthropists to be found in the City today. John, a star investment banker, has found the time and resources to support the causes he believes in. He set up the Genesis Foundation in 1996 to support young artists, playwrights and musicians. He is also Chairman of Business Action on Homelessness, a unique organisation that changes businesses' perception of homelessness and helps homeless people back into employment.

Genesis is involved in projects that provide practical and financial support for young artists in the earliest stages of their career. In 2002, the Foundation engaged in a five-year partnership with the Prince's Trust to provide start-up loans for young people wishing to set up creative enterprises. The most visible work of the Foundation has been the Genesis Prize for Opera, set up in 2001. A major investment in modern chamber opera, it not only finances the writing of new music theatre but also ensures that new works are produced.

Business Action on Homelessness is a unique partnership between the organisation 'Business in the Community' and leading companies, homeless agencies and the Government. The campaign has been running since 1998, raising companies' awareness of homelessness nationwide and working with businesses to equip homeless people with the skills needed to gain and sustain employment. It encourages companies to provide work placements and training courses, assisting the homeless back into work.

John promotes corporate social responsibility and regularly organises visits for business people to see homeless projects in action. He is, as well, a founder member of the Passage Day Centre, one of the largest day care centres for the homeless in London where he is often to be found. At the heart of all his varied work is his belief in the dignity of every human being.

John was appointed as a Trustee of the Tate Gallery in 1998; he serves as a Life Trustee of the Sir John Soane's Museum and is a Trustee of Human Rights Watch of New York. In 2000 he received the Prince of Wales Ambassador's Award in recognition of his support for the homeless, and a year later, Pope John Paul II made him a Knight of the Order of St Gregory. John was born and raised in the USA and came to the UK in the early '80s.

"The big challenge now is to help homeless people break the cycle of homelessness and get them into long-term employment. A new idea is required for this and John Studzinski has had it!"

His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, 2002

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