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Rockefeller Foundation Launches Revamped Asia Regional Office in Bangkok

February 24, 2025
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Published DateFebruary 24, 2025

The Rockefeller Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer, Natalye Paquin (R), and Head of Asia, Deepali Khanna (L), inaugurate the revamped Asia Regional Office.

Redesigned to celebrate Asian culture and advance convening efforts for ‘Big Bets’ across the Region

BANGKOK | February 25, 2025 — The Rockefeller Foundation today announced the grand reopening of its redesigned Asia Regional Office in Bangkok, Thailand. The Rockefeller Foundation, which has been investing in Asia for over 100 years, first opened an office in Bangkok in 1964. In addition to reflecting the richness and diversity of Asian culture, the newly renovated office provides the philanthropic organization with the opportunity to host regional convenings, innovate ways to collaborate, and ultimately, advance big bets to promote the well-being of humanity.

The office was inaugurated by The Rockefeller Foundation’s Chief Operating Officer Natalye Paquin, who was joined by Mark Wattley, Chief People Officer, Elena Gelosa, Vice President of The Rockefeller Foundation’s Bellagio Center, Deepali Khanna, Head of Asia, local staff, and representatives from several organizations that have collaborated with The Rockefeller Foundation over the years.

The Rockefeller Foundation’s senior leaders, local staff, and partners came together for the inauguration ceremony.

“The Rockefeller Foundation has long used spaces and places to connect unlikely partners and drive progress on the world’s most pressing challenges,” said Ms. Paquin. “As we begin this next chapter in our enhanced Bangkok office, we invite our partners to make the most of this upgraded space to collaborate, share insights, and jointly work towards meaningful solutions.”

Located in Bangkok’s city center, the modernized office integrates contemporary design with traditional Asian elements, reinforcing The Rockefeller Foundation’s long-standing commitment to the region. The facility features modern meeting spaces designed to foster collaboration, innovation, and dialogue among stakeholders addressing Asia’s most pressing challenges.

Key features of the redesigned office include:

  • Culturally Inspired Interiors: Design elements that honor the diverse traditions and heritage of Asia.
  • Flexible Convening Spaces: Advanced technology to support workshops, meetings and hybrid events.
  • Sustainable Features: Eco-friendly materials and more energy-efficient operations.

“Asia continues to be a hub of innovation and opportunity, and our revamped regional office in Bangkok demonstrates our deep respect for the cultures and communities that inspire our work,” said Ms. Khanna. “With these new convening facilities, we aim to create a collaborative space where partners from across sectors can come together to make big bets for humanity.”

Alumni of The Rockefeller Foundation's Bellagio Center gathered at the Asia Regional Office.
The Rockefeller Foundation's partners experienced the new convening space during the inauguration ceremony.

The Asia Regional Office serves as a pivotal hub for The Rockefeller Foundation’s regional initiatives that build upon the organization’s legacy of advancing human progress and addressing global challenges, including, but not limited to:

  • Helping develop the public health system in Thailand in 1914;
  • Establishing China Medical Board in 1914 and Peking Union Medical College in 1917;
  • Supporting the establishment of Indian Council of Medical Research’s National Institute of Virology in 1952;
  • Launching the Asian Cities Climate Change Resilience Network in 2008;
  • Expanding access to reliable power across India since 2015.

About The Rockefeller Foundation

The Rockefeller Foundation is a pioneering philanthropy built on collaborative partnerships at the frontiers of science, technology, and innovation that enable individuals, families, and communities to flourish. We make big bets to promote the well-being of humanity. Today, we are focused on advancing human opportunity and reversing the climate crisis by transforming systems in food, health, energy, and finance. For more information, sign up for our newsletter at www.rockefellerfoundation.org/subscribe  and follow us on X @RockefellerFdn and LI @the-rockefeller-foundation.

Gurpratap Singh

The Rockefeller Foundation

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