From Forecasts to Fieldwork: How AI is Powering Humanitarian Response
As humanitarian crises grow in frequency and complexity, new technologies are reshaping how aid organizations respond. This conversation brings together leading voices using AI to strengthen emergency response systems and ensure technology serves people ethically and effectively.
The panel explores how AI can help anticipate disasters, streamline humanitarian operations, and uphold ethical standards in high-stakes contexts — moving beyond hype toward real-world impact.
Speakers
Federico Barreras is a Humanitarian Program Manager at GiveDirectly with 10 years of expertise on disaster response, climate change & urban resilience, unsafe migration, and inclusion programs. GiveDirectly allows donors such as governments, foundations, and individual donors to provide direct cash transfers to people living in extreme poverty. In doing so, they aim to accelerate the end of extreme poverty globally.
Learn more: https://www.givedirectly.org/
Thomas Byrnes is the CEO & Lead Consultant at MarketImpact. With over 13 years of experience in humanitarian operations, he's specialized in cash programming, digital social protection, and AI implementation across the MENA region. He helps organizations leverage technology to amplify their impact while maintaining their humanitarian principles.
Learn more: https://marketimpact.org/
What to Expect
Real examples of AI in anticipatory action and humanitarian operations
Insights on developing and applying responsible AI frameworks
Lessons from global case studies and field implementation
Reflections on ethics, inclusion, and women’s leadership in humanitarian tech
Live audience Q&A across platforms
Hosted by
She AI:
SheAI is the first global platform dedicated to AI training for women across industries, certified by the United Nations. Through self-paced courses, workshops, and a vibrant community, SheAI equips women with practical AI skills to boost productivity, scale businesses, and close the gender gap in tech.
The Bloom:
The Bloom is where +80,000 emerging social impact leaders find life-changing career opportunities, mentors, and connections across borders