ON - Omidyar Network

Photo: Eric Millette

Pam is a philanthropist dedicated to building peace, advancing human freedom, and creating opportunities for people to improve their lives.

In 2001, with the support of husband Pierre, Pam founded HopeLab to pursue her belief that a video game might improve the lives of young cancer patients by giving them a chance to “blast away” at their disease. In August 2006, HopeLab released Re- Mission, a breakthrough video game scientifically proven to improve compliance with prescribed medications and give young people a sense of power and control over their disease. In 2011, HopeLab launched Zamzee, an online rewards platform aimed at reducing sedentary behavior and obesity in kids. Research has demonstrated that Zamzee boosts physical activity in kids by 30% or more, the equivalent of an additional marathon of running each month. HopeLab is now embarking upon a deeper exploration of how science, technology and the power of play can be harnessed to support resilience in young people as a way to improve health. Pam remains a guiding visionary at HopeLab, serving as chair of the Board of Directors.

In 2004, Pam co-founded Omidyar Network, a philanthropic investment firm, with her husband Pierre. Omidyar Network is a mission-based organization that funds both for-profit companies and non-profit organizations to create opportunity for individuals around the world to improve their own lives and therefore make powerful, lasting contributions to their communities. It has funded organizations in areas such as financial inclusion, education, entrepreneurship, property rights, consumer internet as well as mobile and government transparency. As a member of the board, Pam plays an ongoing role in steering the organization's work.

In 2005, Pam began work on Humanity United, a foundation committed to building peace and advancing human freedom. At home and in the corners of the globe where these ideals are challenged most, Humanity United leads and supports efforts to lift up the voices and will of people, ensure good governance and the rule of law, engage markets and business as a force for change, and encourage the exploration of promising ideas and innovations to end mass violence and modern-day slavery – all with the belief that everyone has the right to a life that is peaceful and free. As the foundation’s guiding visionary, Pam was integral in developing Humanity United’s mission and values and is actively engaged in steering its course as board chair.

Pam serves as a member of the Advisory Council to The Elders. Pam earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Tufts University and studied molecular genetics at the University of California, Santa Cruz.