The workshop, which took the form of a one-day simulation, was based on the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes which hit Nepal in spring 2015. The group was put to the test as they worked in small teams to create a three-month response plan to the earthquakes in just four hours.
To prepare them for the challenge, the day began with an introduction to the core principles of humanitarian practice, led by RedR Associate Trainer Stephen Blakemore. Each team then took responsibility for a key area of the response, ensuring that water and sanitation, shelter, health, protection, logistics and food and nutrition were all covered. The simulation culminated in teams presenting their plans to a panel of potential donors, keeping their cool under pressure to explain their decision-making and succeed in gaining funding for their response.
This really was a team-building exercise with a difference, providing a unique opportunity for participants to hone their leadership, collaboration and teamwork skills in a pressurised and unfamiliar situation. They faced numerous challenges throughout the day, from aftershocks to dealing with the media. As well as learning about aid work, participants discovered more about themselves and their work patterns and are now able to take these learnings back to the office.
If you’re in search of your own engaging corporate teambuilding, leadership or graduate event, please contact the fundraising team on 0207 840 6000 or fundraising@redr.org.uk to talk about organising a bespoke disaster relief workshop.