War Zones and Humanitarian Values: An Inside Look

Jul 28, 2023

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About the episode:

Step into the trenches with us as we unpack the raw truth of providing humanitarian aid in war zones. We are privileged to have as our guests Anne Reitsema, CEO of Medair, and Meghan North, former country director for Medair in Ukraine and Poland. They share insights about the initial response to the crisis in Ukraine and details about the daily reality of living and serving in areas of conflict.

During our conversation, Anne and Meghan shared the unique challenges posed by the conflict zone and the strategy adopted by Medair to meet the community's specific needs. We also discuss the indispensable role of values and principles in humanitarian work., reflecting on the power of hope during difficult times and the beauty of mutual assistance.

Listen to learn more about the resilience and dedication needed to make a difference for some of the world’s most vulnerable people.

Anne's bio: Anne Reitsema became Medair’s Chief Executive Officer in 2023. Medair is a Christian International Humanitarian Organization that responds to major crises triggered by natural disasters, disease outbreaks, or conflict. Its mandate is to save lives and relieve human suffering in some of the world’s most devastated and difficult-to-reach places. Anne joined Medair in 2004 and has since led Medair’s programs in Zimbabwe, Angola, Uganda, Sudan, Somalia, and South Sudan. Before joining Medair, she worked as a social worker. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a master’s degree in Counseling.

Meghan’s bio: Meghan North is an experienced humanitarian aid worker with 10 years of humanitarian experience. She specializes in complex emergencies and has worked in over eight countries, including Ukraine, Iraq, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Mozambique, Sudan, and South Sudan. She has worked with Medair for over eight years, most recently as Country Director overseeing Ukraine and Poland. Meghan holds an M.A. from Wheaton College in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership.

Resources:

Find out more about Medair.

Previous episode: Our Life-Changing Visit to Ukraine

Previous episode: How Do You Sustain Hope and Resist Disillusionment When Doing Good?

Previous episode: Seven Crucial Steps for Soul-Care: So You Can Care for Others

Come study with us: HDI’s MA in Humanitarian & Disaster Leadership

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This episode was produced by WildfireCreative for the Humanitarian Disaster Institute at Wheaton College.

Theme Song: “Turning Over Tables” by The Brilliance

Follow on Instagram: @wildfirecreativeco

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