World Nomads, a leading name in travel insurance and global community impact, proudly marks the 20th anniversary of its groundbreaking Footprints program. Since its launch, nearly 2.2 million generous travellers have united to make micro-donations ranging from $1 to $10, collectively raising nearly $AUD5.7 million. These funds have supported more than 270 community development projects in 47 countries, benefiting roughly 3 million people. The Footprints program highlights the collective power of travellers and their commitment to giving back to the communities they visit.
The program was launched in 2005 out of a desire to assist communities devastated by the tsunami that killed over a quarter of a million people in Asia. World Nomads co-founder Simon Monk, and his team, envisioned a platform where travellers could make small, impactful donations to causes aligned with their values. The response was extraordinary, and the program evolved into a lasting commitment to global betterment. By partnering with nonprofit organisations aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Footprints channels 100% of donations directly to projects that combat poverty, protect the planet, and help communities.
“The Footprints program has exceeded our wildest expectations,” said Christina Tunnah, General Manager of Marketing and Brands at World Nomads. “It began as a rapid response to a single tragedy in a place many of us at World Nomads have visited. It has bloomed into a testament to the collective goodwill of travellers, sharing a commitment to a more equitable and sustainable world. We’re thrilled to celebrate two decades of impact. We are looking to the next era of scaling our efforts to support more communities worldwide and create lasting change, one journey at a time.”
The Footprints program is currently supporting several active projects, including its latest initiative in partnership with Save the Children Ukraine, aimed at providing relief for children affected by the war in Ukraine. The next project will be focused on supporting The Hunger Project’s efforts as it works to build self-reliance, and end forced marriages in India. In 2025, Footprints has partnered with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services in Fiji to build a village health clinic in rural Fiji.
Over the past 20 years, the Footprints program has supported projects ranging from disaster relief in Gaza and Ukraine to animal welfare, education, sustainable development and more. The past two decades have seen an expansion from projects primarily focused on poverty to a growing number of issues, like gender equality and climate resilience.
To learn more about World Nomads’ Footprints program, visit: www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/footprints. For information on the 20th anniversary, visit the new landing page: www.worldnomads.com/responsible-travel/footprints/20th-anniversary
