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Forget consumerism. Charity has become the c-word that will define generations to come. No longer satisfied with merely chasing material wealth, people today are gradually awakening to and revelling in the new-found delights of sharing  and strengthening ties with the global community. Gone is the awe which was once reserved for high-paid bankers, traders and their lofty glass offices. Today, it is those companies, brands and individuals who demonstrate a genuine concern for the environment and who nurture those altruistic values so rarely upheld in the past that are receiving the greatest praise of all.

One need only cast a glance at the media and fashion industries to truly understand the scope of this latest revolution. In this month alone, two high-profile events in London have placed charity at the core of their agenda, drawing well-deserved attention from across the metropolis.

Guru retail consultant, Mary Portas, recently inaugurated her pop-up Living & Giving charity shop in the heart of Westfield’s designer Village just a few dolly steps away from boutiques of maisons such as Louis Vuitton and Prada. Open until June 27, the boutique is brimming with second-hand bric-a-brac, clothes and books handpicked by Portas and her designer friends that include Sarah Mower from Vogue USA, Prada and Mulberry. Proving that charity shops don’t necessarily have to be dark, dirty and stuffy, Portas has even roped in the glamorous Petersham Nurseries to sell their glorious plants and flowers. All proceeds from the sale of items from Portas’ Living & Giving boutique will be donated to Save the Children, Mind and Trees for Cities.

The day after Living & Giving shuts its doors, London will be hosting yet another charity-driven event at the Chelsea Conservatory, the ‘Indian Summer Garden Party.’  The fundraising event is in aid of the international charity Pratham, a children’s charity organisation funded by Bill Gates that raises money to eradicate illiteracy amongst children in India. Tickets are priced at £150.00, so make sure you pick up a ticket and join in the c-word revolution.