The future of AID: Engaging diasporas in Humanitarian crisis response

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On March 18th, SFR attended the Humanitarian Action Initiative conference at George Washington University, where a discussion took place on how diaspora-led organizations mobilize resources to support crisis-affected regions and drive long-term development. With USAID, the world’s largest aid donor, facing significant cuts, we explored the critical role that diasporas play in shaping future aid frameworks and strengthening local capacity and self-reliance. The speakers included Dr. Jennifer Brinkerhoff from George Washington University, Simret Habtezgi from the Tigray Disaster Relief Fund, and Jessica Kanya-Ngambi from the African Diaspora Connection. They discussed the situations in Ukraine and Ethiopia, highlighting how diasporas mobilize, contribute, and respond to humanitarian crises in their countries of origin. It was truly fascinating to hear from these experts and listen to their real-life examples from their own countries.

National VOAD Conference Focuses on Long-Term Disaster Recovery February 26, 2025

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The National VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) Conference, held on February 26, 2025, gathered leaders from diverse sectors to discuss the latest advancements in long-term disaster recovery. The conference centered on strategies for expediting recovery timelines and enhancing resilience, with the aim of swiftly reactivating response and recovery operations following natural disasters.

 

Key discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening community resilience and improving coordination across various sectors to ensure a more efficient recovery process. Participants included representatives from the private sector, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), renowned educational institutions, and philanthropists. Each shared valuable insights and experiences from their respective fields, contributing to a collaborative approach to disaster recovery.

 

The event served as a platform for cross-sectoral collaboration, emphasizing the critical role of partnership and innovation in building more resilient communities post-disaster.