Join global humanitarian leaders and tech innovators online this March 5th for a deep dive into the evolution of the humanitarian sector. Marking the 10th anniversary of the World Humanitarian Summit and the launch of the Response Innovation Lab (RIL), this two-hour digital convening is designed for founders, humanitarian professionals, and ecosystem builders eager to understand how innovation is reshaping crisis response across the MENA region and beyond.
Event Details
- What: Global Webinar and Ecosystem Reflection
- When: March 5, 2026, at 10:00 CET / 12:00 PM (Local)
- Where: Online via Microsoft Teams
- Focus Areas: Humanitarian Tech, Ecosystem Facilitation, Impact Scaling, and Future Trends
About The Event
The “Humanitarian Innovation Past, Present and Future” session serves as a critical milestone, reflecting on a decade of progress since the 2016 World Humanitarian Summit. Organized by the Response Innovation Lab, the event explores the lab’s journey as a premier ecosystem facilitator that bridges the gap between humanitarian needs and innovative solutions. Over the last ten years, the landscape has shifted from nascent pilot projects to sophisticated, tech-driven interventions, and this event aims to codify those lessons to inform the next decade of humanitarian action.
What to Expect
- Expert Panel Discussions: Three distinct sections featuring 12 diverse voices, including RIL alumni and global innovation actors.
- Interactive Exercises: Engaging sessions designed to draw insights from both speakers and the audience to map the current state of the sector.
- Trend Analysis: A deep dive into the internal and external forces—such as AI, localized manufacturing, and fintech—currently re-shaping aid delivery.
- Strategic Roadmapping: Collaborative brainstorming on what the humanitarian innovation system will look like in 2036.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with representatives from organizations like the GSMA Mobile for Development Foundation, ADRRN, and various Country Labs.
Featured Speakers
- Jennifer Wilde: Founding Member of Response Innovation Lab
- Aeshah Mohammed: Rwanga Foundation
- Kara N.: GSMA Mobile for Development Foundation
- Yaman Sarraj, PMP: SyRIL (Syria Response Innovation Lab)
- Takeshi Komino: Asian Disaster Reduction and Response Network (ADRRN)
- Kabali Saul: SafeBangle Technologies
- Kullein Ankunda: U-Learn Uganda / U-RIL
Key Themes for 2026
The webinar is structured to move through three logical phases:
- Reflections on the Past: Identifying key learnings from the post-2016 wave of humanitarian initiatives.
- The Present State: A candid look at what is currently working (and what is stalling) within the innovation space.
- Visioning the Future: Anticipating how emerging technologies and shifting geopolitical landscapes will demand new types of humanitarian “labs” and solutions.
How to Attend
This event is free and open to the public, particularly those involved in the Humanitarian Networks and Partnerships Week (HNPW). To secure your spot and receive the link to the live Microsoft Teams session, you must register in advance through the official event page.
Register Here: Microsoft Teams Event Link
Learn More: LinkedIn – Response Innovation Lab
