What happens when the humanitarian system built to help… doesn’t?
In this episode of Digital Humanitarian, host Dana Yaari talks with Abril Páez, Director at Proyecto Concentrarte, who shares her experience responding to the 2021 Haiti earthquake.
It’s a story about what happens when traditional disaster response systems fall short—and how, in the face of chaos, a simple tech solution sparked a more human-centered approach.
Abril explains how bureaucracy and outdated models often slow aid efforts, but also how basic digital tools, such as WhatsApp and spreadsheets, helped local responders cut through the noise, coordinate effectively, and reclaim their agency.
This episode explores how even the simplest technologies can create resilience, restore trust, and shift control back to the communities most affected.
What you’ll learn:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) Welcome to Digital Humanitarian, Abril Páez
(02:54) What broken coordination looks like in crisis
(05:09) When bureaucracy gets in the way of helping others
(06:25) How WhatsApp and spreadsheets saved the day
(08:56) Why local responders must lead emergency efforts
(11:25) How one mission reshaped Abril’s view of aid work
(14:26) Giving communities tools to report what they need
(16:25) Real-time data helps turn chaos into action
(18:59) Shifting power to those closest to the crisis
(23:05) Recovery starts when locals call the shots
(28:29): Closing remarks
Resources:
