How do images influence our perception of people in the Global South? Which stereotypes and narratives are frequently (unconsciously) reinforced by commonly used images in humanitarian aid communication—and what alternatives are available?

In this interactive workshop, we critically examine the role of visual language in humanitarian aid and development cooperation. Together, we will reflect on colonial continuities and the concept of "white saviorism", and develop concrete, non-discriminatory alternatives for the visual representation of projects.

The aim is to support organizations in making their communication ethical, dignified, and diversity-sensitive – and thus positioning themselves credibly in a postcolonial context.

The impact of crises on people's lives, experiences and material conditions varies according to gender. Humanitarian aid activities can reinforce or reduce existing inequalities.

In order to ensure needs-based, effective and live-saving humanitarian assistance (and development projects in fragile context), consideration of gender aspects is inevitable. In recent years, institutional donor agencies have required gender-mainstreaming and gender-markers when developing humanitarian (as well as development/nexus) projects, but gender mainstreaming, gender-targeted and feminist approaches have also increasingly been criticized as ideology. It remains important to understand how gender aspects play a role in crises or fragile context, and to put this knowledge into practice in design and implementation of a project.

The aim of the training is to provide key approaches and practical tools that can lead to meeting the immediate needs of women, men, girls and boys affected by natural disasters and humanitarian conflict in a way that also addresses the underlying causes of people's vulnerability, particularly as a result and cause of gender inequality.

(Members of ADH Organizations can apply for fee reimbursement. Please check within your organizations regarding the internally announced procedure.)

Modern leadership in humanitarian organizations requires much more than organizational skills—it requires a great sense of authenticity, resilience, and the ability to act straightforwardly and engagingly in a challenging and often hectic environment. Especially in demanding situations, leaders are required to provide clear guidance, make sound decisions, and support their teams with empathy.

In this three-day training course, you will learn the basics of value-oriented and reflective leadership in the humanitarian context. You will become familiar with key leadership models and explore your own leadership style, values, and role models. Practical tools and methods will help you to apply and develop leadership skills in your everyday work.

Interactive learning formats, real-life case studies, and peer coaching encourage personal reflection and collegial exchange. The goal is to expand your own repertoire of skills, effectively meet challenges, and promote a resilient, motivating team culture—in the spirit of responsible and sustainable leadership in NGOs.