Sarah Ernest is a Best-Selling Author, a 100 Women To KNOW In North America, 2025 Women We Admire honoree, Top 40 Under 40 in Canada recipient, community advocate, and the Founder and CEO of Ernest For Good Inc., a boutique firm on a mission to empower leaders and nonprofit organizations to step into their power, energize their fundraising, and brighten their brand - unapologetically.

With two decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, Sarah is a seasoned philanthropy and communications professional known for her dynamic leadership, fearless authenticity, and ability to unlock transformational growth. She has raised more than $30 million (and counting) for charities, leaving a trail of energized teams, bold campaigns, and strengthened organizations across Canada and the United States.

Sarah became an executive at the age of 28 in Silicon Valley, California, quickly establishing herself as a leader with vision and impact. She has since held senior leadership positions including Director of Development, Vice-President of Philanthropy and Communications, and Chief Philanthropy Officer at some of North America’s most impactful social profit organizations. Her portfolio includes expertise in strategic fundraising, brand building, advocacy, and executive leadership - all grounded in a relentless commitment to advancing equity and building community.

Her Amazon Best-Selling book, RETHINK PHILANTHROPY: Breaking Rules, Raising Funds and Doing Good, challenges outdated notions of giving and inspires organizations to embrace fearless fundraising by breaking arbitrary rules. It has become a touchstone for leaders ready to think differently and drive impact in their communities.

Beyond her consulting work, Sarah serves as a board member, mentor, and strategic advisor across the sector. She partners with organizations of all sizes - from grassroots charities to national movements - helping them strengthen visibility, expand reach, and deepen impact. Passionate about equity and belonging, she is known for her ability to transform ideas into bold, actionable strategies that fuel both philanthropy and community change.

Her career and contributions are fueled by lived experience - growing up in a family affected by hardship and ultimately building a business rooted in resilience and purpose. This personal journey informs her unwavering belief in the power of community, generosity, and unapologetic leadership. At every stage of her career, she has been guided by one clear principle: giving back is not just an action, it is a way of life.

If your organization is ready to reimagine what’s possible in fundraising and community impact, connect with Sarah to energize your fundraising and brighten your brand – unapologetically.