It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Tine Ward, Founder and CEO of Rockflower, who passed away on March 27, 2025, at her home in Rhode Island. From Rockflower’s inception, Tine Ward had an unwavering commitment to our Partners and her vision, to radically reimagine social investment and development aid. Her goal, to get funds into the hands of those who develop practical grassroots solutions to the challenges in their own communities, is simple yet transformative.
Tine Ward didn’t just spark change - she lit wildfires of impact across the globe. As Founder and CEO of Rockflower, she backed bold ideas before they were headlines, funding people over projects and purpose over profit. For so many of our Partners, Rockflower was their first funder - not because the pitch was polished, but because Tine’s intuition said “this will change the world.” And she was right!
Today, Rockflower’s work has reached millions of women and girls, a living tribute to Tine’s belief that 1% better every day can move mountains. Through her vision, she reminded us that real impact begins within - in the quiet, uncomfortable spaces where truth is found. She mothered movements, mentored misfits, and reimagined what leadership could look like. Tine was a remarkable steward of unconditional love and limitless generosity.
In the current climate of cruel cutbacks to worldwide aid, we need to embrace Tine’s spirit, adopt her vision and accept her challenge of Radical Idealism, Practically Realized, Now, more than ever, we need to reach out to one another and lift each other up. Tine Ward’s legacy inspires all who knew her to go forth with loving kindness.
Rest in power, Tine - you didn’t just leave a legacy, you launched one. Your light didn’t go out, it lit the way forward.