Masters of Scale Rapid Response: Compassion in the face of crisis, w/Mercy Corps CEO Tjada McKenna
Mar 9, 2023
Tjada D’Oyen McKenna, CEO of Mercy Corps, shares her insights on navigating humanitarian crises, particularly in Turkey and Syria post-earthquake. She discusses the emotional toll on her team while managing multiple emergencies, including the ongoing war in Ukraine. Tjada emphasizes the vital role of businesses in humanitarian efforts, advocating that altruism doesn’t have to compromise scalability. Her reflections inspire a deeper understanding of leadership under pressure and the interconnectedness of global crises.
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Initial Earthquake Response
- Tjada McKenna learned of the earthquake through a New York Times alert.
- She quickly contacted her team in Syria and the US to assess the situation and needs.
Staff Resilience
- Despite personal losses, Mercy Corps staff in Syria showed resilience and commitment.
- Many were ready to work the next day, highlighting their dedication to helping their community.
Shifting Aid Strategies
- The earthquake in Syria required a different aid approach than in Ukraine.
- Due to damaged infrastructure and fragile markets, cash assistance was not as effective as providing essential supplies.