Compassion is a powerful force. It drives us to see the struggles of others as if they were our own and compels us to act. My journey as a philanthropist has taught me that every act of kindness creates ripples far beyond what we can immediately see. Whether through rescuing animals, supporting education, or giving back to communities, I’ve witnessed how compassion can inspire others to pay it forward, creating a cycle of giving that grows exponentially over time. The Beginnings of Compassionate Action For me, compassion took root in unexpected ways. When I first started rescuing animals in Baja California, Mexico, it wasn’t part of a grand plan. I had gone there seeking a retreat—a peaceful escape from the fast-paced demands of life. But instead, I found myself face-to-face with the harsh realities many animals face: stray dogs and cats injured, starving, or dying on the streets. At first, the magnitude of the problem felt overwhelming. How could I possibly make a difference? But when I stopped to help a dog that had been hit by a car, I realized something profound: change starts with one small act of kindness. That single rescue grew into a mission, and today, Last Hope for Paws has saved nearly 1,000 animals. What surprised me most was how my efforts began to inspire others. Local residents, veterinarians, and volunteers came forward to join the cause. People who had never considered rescuing animals before started to see it as their responsibility, too. The cycle of giving had begun, and I was just one part of it. Inspiring Others Through Education Another area where I’ve seen the ripple effect of compassion is in education. When I reflect on my own life, I know that opportunities to learn and grow have been critical to my success.

When I look back at my life, my career as a pilot stands out as one of the most transformative experiences I’ve had. As the youngest pilot for a major airline, I was immersed in a world of precision, responsibility, and relentless challenges. I had the privilege of making history as the youngest pilot to fly for the airline, navigating some of the most advanced aircraft in commercial aviation. Little did I know then that the lessons I learned in the cockpit would influence not only my professional endeavors but also my approach to leadership and philanthropy. A Global Perspective from the Sky Flying across continents gave me a perspective few are fortunate to experience. From 35,000 feet above the ground, borders blur, and the world feels interconnected in ways that are difficult to appreciate on the surface. This bird’s-eye view shaped my understanding of the global challenges we face—environmental, social, and economic—and the responsibility we all share in addressing them. This perspective has been a guiding force in my philanthropic work. Whether rescuing animals through Last Hope for Paws or supporting educational initiatives, I approach each cause with the understanding that our actions are part of a larger, interconnected system. Just as a pilot must consider how every adjustment impacts the aircraft, I believe our contributions to the world must be thoughtful, deliberate, and aimed at creating sustainable change. The Importance of Precision and Preparation In aviation, precision is everything. A small oversight can have catastrophic consequences, and thorough preparation is the only way to ensure safety and success. As a pilot, I learned to anticipate challenges, double-check every detail, and remain calm under pressure. These principles have become cornerstones of my approach to leadership and philanthropy. In real estate development, for instance, I’ve relied on meticulous planning to

Philanthropy is a deeply personal journey, one that reflects not just the causes you support but also the values you hold dear. For me, giving back has never been about writing checks or achieving recognition. It has always been about building something meaningful, something that lasts. Sustainable philanthropy is my blueprint for making a difference—one that focuses on creating long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes. I’ve had the privilege of working in fields as diverse as aviation, real estate development, and animal welfare. Each of these experiences has shaped my approach to philanthropy, teaching me the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and a clear vision. Whether rescuing animals in Baja California through my foundation, Last Hope for Paws, or supporting educational initiatives and community programs, my goal has always been to create systems that empower others and continue to thrive long after I am gone. Understanding the Meaning of Sustainability When people hear the term “sustainable philanthropy,” they often think of environmental causes or renewable resources. While these are certainly critical, sustainability in philanthropy goes beyond environmentalism. To me, it’s about creating initiatives that are self-sufficient, scalable, and impactful. It’s about planting seeds that will grow into forests, rather than providing shade for a single day. Sustainability requires addressing root causes rather than symptoms. For example, in animal rescue, it’s not enough to save one dog or cat. The broader goal must include education, spay-and-neuter programs, and community engagement to reduce the number of animals suffering in the first place. In education, sustainability means creating opportunities that equip young people with the tools they need to succeed, so they can, in turn, uplift others in their communities. The Role of Passion in Philanthropy Every philanthropic endeavor I’ve undertaken has been driven by a personal passion. My work with Last Hope for

When I first bought a beach house in Baja California, I thought it would be a place of quiet reflection—a getaway from the fast-paced world I knew. Instead, it became the starting point of a journey I never anticipated but now can’t imagine my life without. What began as a simple desire to help a few animals in distress has grown into something much larger, and it has revealed to me the deep interconnectedness of communities and their shared responsibilities. Through my foundation, Last Hope for Paws, I’ve witnessed the power of compassion to transcend borders. The animals I rescue in Baja California often arrive in heartbreaking conditions—abandoned, injured, or suffering from severe illnesses. These stories of suffering, however, are not unique to one region. They are part of a broader, systemic issue in animal welfare that requires collaboration, creativity, and unwavering dedication to address. The Cross-Border Challenge Working in Baja California has opened my eyes to the complexities of animal welfare in a region that straddles two distinct worlds. On one side, there’s Mexico, where resources for animal care are often stretched thin, and public awareness about issues like spaying, neutering, and vaccinations is still evolving. On the other side, there’s the United States, where animal welfare organizations are better funded and equipped, but the problems of overpopulation and neglect persist. This geographical and cultural divide poses unique challenges. Veterinary care in Baja is limited, and the infrastructure to support animal rescues is often inadequate. At the same time, crossing animals into the U.S. for treatment or adoption involves navigating a labyrinth of legal and logistical hurdles. These challenges can feel overwhelming, but I believe they present an opportunity to bridge gaps and foster cooperation between communities. Fostering Collaboration Across Borders Collaboration is the cornerstone of everything we do

In a world of complex problems and overwhelming need, it can be hard to believe that individual action can make a significant difference. However, in the scenic coastal communities of Baja California, one man has proven that the dedication of a single person can bring life-changing results. Known to locals as “Noah,” Ramin Pourteymour, a successful business leader and former United Airlines pilot, has dedicated himself to rescuing hundreds of animals in the area. Through his foundation, Last Hope for Paws, Ramin has saved nearly 1,000 animals, giving them a second chance and inspiring those around him. A Rescue Mission Born Out of Compassion Eight years ago, Ramin Pourteymour purchased a beach house in Baja California with hopes of enjoying the tranquil coastline and escaping the rush of city life. Instead, he found himself disturbed by the number of stray and injured animals roaming the streets—many of them dogs and cats suffering from treatable but debilitating conditions. Whether struck by cars, left to die from illnesses, or abandoned by their owners, these animals faced a bleak future. For many, the sight of injured animals might spark pity, but for Ramin, it became a call to action. Determined to make a difference, he transformed his Baja retreat into a rescue hub and began offering food, medical care, and sanctuary to animals in need. This decision to become a guardian for local animals earned him his nickname, “Noah,” a fitting title for a man who has dedicated his resources, time, and heart to saving lives. The Birth of Last Hope for Paws Ramin’s commitment led him to create Last Hope for Paws, an organization dedicated to rescuing animals, particularly in Baja California. The foundation provides a safe place for animals to recover from their injuries, receive medical treatment, and find a new

Traveling and living in different countries has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. Growing up in Iran and later moving to places like France, Germany, and Hong Kong before eventually settling in the United States, I was exposed to a variety of architectural styles, city layouts, and community structures. Those experiences taught me the importance of adaptability, cultural respect, and environmental awareness—all of which deeply inform my approach to sustainable design in real estate today. When I look back, it’s clear that those diverse experiences gave me a unique understanding of sustainability and its crucial role in shaping our communities. Learning from Europe’s Old-World Efficiency One of my earliest experiences with sustainable design was in Germany. German cities have a deep-rooted culture of environmental consciousness that goes beyond just recycling. There, sustainability is woven into everyday life—from energy-efficient homes to reliance on public transportation and bikes. I was fascinated by the practical yet beautiful architecture I encountered. Buildings were built with lasting materials like stone and brick, blending aesthetic appeal with durability. Homes and public buildings were not only aesthetically pleasing but also served multiple generations with minimal need for constant rebuilding or redesign. This experience taught me that true sustainability isn’t just about making buildings “green” in a superficial way; it’s about building structures that serve the community for decades. I took this philosophy to heart when I started my real estate career. Every project should consider the long-term, both in terms of structural integrity and environmental impact. When we approach a project, we’re creating something that people will live in and depend on for many years, so it must be both efficient and built to last. Insights from Hong Kong’s Vertical Efficiency Living in Hong Kong was a completely different experience, especially when it came

Philanthropy is a powerful asset that can help substantially improve many different aspects of the world. However, private giving can often be even more influential than public or government support when making a difference in animal welfare issues. By discovering innovative ways to leverage philanthropic dollars, we have the potential to create positive and lasting change for animals around the globe. I’m Ramin Pourteymour, and today, we will explore how harnessing the power of giving can lead to tremendous outcomes for wildlife conservation and companion animal care. What is Animal Philanthropy, and Why is it so Important Animal philanthropy is a concept that is gaining more recognition and importance in society today. It refers to providing financial or other forms of support to organizations that work towards the protection and welfare of animals. It encompasses various causes, from rescue missions and habitat preservation to animal healthcare and advocacy for animal rights. Animal philanthropy is crucial because it helps to ensure that the voiceless and vulnerable members of our society are afforded the protection and care they need. By supporting animal charities, we can collectively work towards creating a safe and compassionate world for animals, which ultimately benefits both the animals themselves and the wider community. Simple Ways to Connect with Animal Charities and Organizations Animal lovers everywhere always search for ways to make a difference and help those needy furry friends. Connecting with animal charities and organizations is a fantastic way to get involved in creating a better world for our four-legged friends. Not only can you donate money, but you can also volunteer your time and engage in activities like adoption events or fostering animals. Don’t have much time to spare? No problem. Social media is a great way to stay informed and share information about animal charities and