Privacy Policy
Contact
Future Events
Past Events
About Us
Home

Overview
Agenda
Speakers
1-2-1 Matchmaking Tables
Sponsors
Venue & Accomodation
ADR2024 Post-Event Video
Pricing
Book Now!
Contact
ADR2025 Agenda
Tuesday 25 March
Marriott Panama Hotel
.
ADR2025 Overview
The Americas, Latin America and the Caribbean face an ever-growing need for robust disaster relief solutions amidst escalating vulnerabilities to natural hazards, some of which are unquestionably being amplified by climate change. Behind the increased frequency and scale of impact are drivers such as rapid urbanisation, fragile infrastructure, and resource scarcity which are interacting with hazard events (hurricanes, earthquakes, and flooding) leading to compounding losses. Effective disaster responses to these seemingly increasing catastrophic events requires seamless collaboration between public and private sectors across food security, healthcare, logistics, technology, and finance. Partnerships leverage private innovation and public systems to enhance preparedness, response, and recovery.
 
Through a range of workshops, exhibition, high-level discussion panels, networking and 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings, the 10th annual Action on Disaster Relief (ADR2025) forum highlights best practices, case studies, and opportunities for cross-sectoral engagement, fostering resilient communities and adaptive strategies to mitigate the profound humanitarian and economic impacts of disasters in the region.
12:00 - 19:00
Pre-event Registration - Hotel Lobby
Attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required). Sponsors are asked to setup their exhibition booths from 4pm onwards. The ADR registration desk will remain open all afternoon for those attending the site-visit and afternoon workshops.
13:00 - 16:00
Site Visit - Regional Logistics Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (CLRAH)
ADR2025 attendees are invited to visit* the Regional Logistics Centre for Humanitarian Assistance (CLRAH); an initiative of the Government of Panama created to incorporate emergency operations of several actors into one integrated modern logistics facility. The Centre was implemented by UNOPS (opened late 2019), under the direction of the Ministry of Government, in coordination with IFRC, UNHRD (WFP), and SINAPROC Panama who are the facility's primary users. Participants will visit the now-operational Regional Logistics Centre, be shown a presentation on the Centre before visiting the UNHRD, IFRC, and SINAPROC warehouses, and operations center situated at the Panamá Pacífico International Airport. This is a complimentary visit with transportation provided, which will depart (1PM) from and return (4PM) to the Marriott Panama Hotel Lobby.
* sturdy, closed shoes required, and casual clothing for warm weather.
 
Holda Alvarez de Marré, Executive Director of Panama CLRAH - Regional Logistics Center for Humanitarian Assistance
16:30 - 17:15
IFRC Supplier Workshop - Miraflores Room
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Americas Regional Office hosts a dedicated Supplier Workshop open to all ADR2025 participants. Attendees will learn who IFRC are and what they procure and contract. There will be a presentation of their online item catalogue, who is purchasing in the IFRC, their Regional Logistics Units, and the process to become a registered supplier including how to obtain tender documents.
 
Stefano Riera, Americas Operational Procurement Manager of IFRC - International Federation of Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies
17:30 - 18:15
World Vision Supply Chain Management Workshop - Miraflores Room
World Vision International’s Latin America and Caribbean Regional Office hosts their first ADR Supply Chain Management Workshop open to all attendees. This dedicated session will detail what World Vision and their main focuses in humanitarian aid. Attendees will learn about World Vision’s regional footprint, how to do business with WV, and the prequalifying requirements mandated by policies across WV. Attendees will also learn about WV’s Supplier Information System and forms, where they publish RPQs and RFQs, and the categories that World Vision purchases.
 
Marbeth Velasquez (virtual), Supply Chain Manager - WV Venezuela of World Vision LAC
19:00 - 21:00
Evening Networking Reception
Attendees are invited to meet at the Marriott Panama Hotel Lobby Bar for an 'ice-breaker' Networking Reception to discuss the two days ahead in a relaxed and informal setting, whilst enjoying a range of canapés and refreshments. Also, an ideal opportunity for panellists to engage with ADR2025's Panel Chairs.
Wednesday 26 March
Colon Room, Marriott Panama Hotel
8:00 - 8:45
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ADR2025 attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required) whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee.
Headsets will also be available for simultaneous English-Spanish translation.
8:45 - 9:05
Opening Ceremony
 
Andrew Dowell, Managing Director of PNYX
 
Rogerio Mobilia Silva, Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC)
UNOCHA - Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and ADR2025 CONFERENCE CHAIR
9:05 - 9:15
Opening Keynote Address
 
Adherbal De La Rosa, Executive Secretary
CEPREDENAC - Coordination Centre for the Prevention of Natural Disasters in Central America
9:15 - 10:15
Panel 1: Disaster Risk Reduction and Preparedness
ADR2025’s opening panel explores strategies to enhance disaster risk reduction (DRR) and preparedness across the Americas, Latin America and Caribbean region, a hotspot for natural hazards such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods. Key issues include improving early warning systems, and addressing the vulnerabilities of marginalised communities who often lack the infrastructure and training to respond effectively. Panellists discuss the critical role of public-private partnerships in mobilising resources, fostering innovation, and ensuring effective disaster response. Topics of focus include leveraging technology, real-time data collection, government readiness, and promoting community engagement to reduce risks and enhance preparedness for a sustainable, resilient future.
 
Panel Chair: Thomas Kongsted, Europe Head of Operations of Maersk Project Logistics, Maersk
 
J. Frank Melgarejo Jr (virtual), Humanitarian Operations Advisor & Humanitarian Assistance Program Manager of USSOUTHCOM | Department of Defense
 
Kenisha Jeffrey-Isembert (virtual), Director of St. Lucia National Emergency Management Organisation (NEMO)
 
Maria Leticia Cardoso, Chief Advisor on Communications of SINAGIR (National System for Comprehensive Risk Management & Civil Protection), Argentina Ministry of Security
 
Nahuel Arenas, Chief - Americas & Caribbean of UNDRR - UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction
10:05 - 10:15
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:15 - 10:20
Video - SINAGIR (National System for Comprehensive Risk Management & Civil Protection), Argentina Ministry of Security
10:20 - 10:40
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
10:40 - 10:45
Video - WFP's Innovation Accelerator
10:45 - 11:45
Panel 2: Pathways for Climate Change Adaptation - Anticipatory Actions and Insurance
Panel two explores critical pathways for climate change adaptation, emphasising the transformative potential of Anticipatory Actions (AA) and innovative financial tools like insurance in reducing public and private sector exposure. Discussions focus on securing funding for resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, and pre-emptive interventions that minimise reactive responses and bolster sustainability. Insurance is highlighted as a catalyst for sustainable investments through risk-sharing models, parametric insurance, and climate risk schemes. These tools incentivise resilience, enabling communities to better adapt to rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and agricultural vulnerabilities.
 
The session underscores the importance of empowering local communities to design adaptive measures while fostering public-private partnerships to integrate insurance-backed initiatives. Scalable solutions, such as data-driven forecasting, early resource deployment, and ecosystem-based approaches, will also be discussed as part of actionable strategies for sustainable development. Panellists will showcase regional success stories where anticipatory frameworks and insurance mechanisms have minimised losses, strengthened resilience, and mobilised resources. The session aims to inspire equitable, forward-thinking adaptation efforts that prioritise pre-emptive actions and ensure diverse local needs are addressed effectively.
 
Panel Chair: Dr. Andrea Atzori, Head of Institutional Relations of Barrel Solar
 
Alvaro de Vicente, Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean of European Civil Protection & Humanitarian Aid Operations Directorate (ECHO)
 
Luis Amaya, Director General of El Salvador Directorate General of Civil Protection, Disaster Prevention & Mitigation (DGPC)
 
Nora Guerten, Anticipatory Action Advisor of WFP - World Food Programme
 
Paulo N C Nacif, Regional Humanitarian & Emergency Affairs Director of World Vision LAC
11:35 - 11:45
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
11:45 - 12:05
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
12:05 - 13:05
Panel 3: Health Services and Public Safety
Concluding day one, panel three explores key challenges and opportunities in health services and public safety across the Americas, Latin America and the Caribbean. Emphasising the need to ensure access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services and adequate medical facilities, particularly in underserved local communities. Panellists discuss innovative public-private sector partnerships to improve healthcare infrastructure, enhance emergency preparedness, and address social determinants of health. Panel three highlights successful community-driven solutions, regional collaboration strategies, and the role of technology in improving outcomes. Insights aim to foster inclusive policies and sustainable practices that strengthen resilience and promote equitable health and safety standards region-wide.
 
Panel Chair: Anthony Catapano, S. Director - Head of Humanitarian Aid & Relief of Aid & Relief, Kuehne + Nagel
 
Dr. Giscard Gilles, Cabinet Member of Haiti Ministry of Public Health & Population (MSPP)
 
Jean Francois Aguilera, Regional Migration Health Specialist of IOM - International Organization for Migration
 
Keisha Linton, Disaster Management & Humanitarian Assistance Coordinator of Regional Security System (RSS)
 
Dr. Laura-Lee Boodram, Head CR-FELTP; Assistant Director Surveillance (a.g.) of CARPHA - Caribbean Public Health Agency
12:55 - 13:05
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
13:05 - 14:30
Networking Lunch Break
14:30 - 17:00
Disaster Relief Public-Private Sector Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session devoted to introductory 15-minute 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings between Government, UN, Disaster Agency and NGO stakeholders, and attending local, regional and global operators. Schedules are prearranged to provide a unique opportunity to discuss disaster reduction, response and relief solutions across the Americas, Latin America and Caribbean region.
18:30 - 19:00
Event Dinner - Transport
For those that require it, transport is included with an ADR2025 Event Dinner Ticket (please confirm at the on-site PNYX registration desk). Transport will depart from the Marriott Panama Hotel Lobby at 6:30PM for a 7:00PM start, returning back to the Hotel at approx. 10PM.
19:00 - 22:00
Event Dinner - El Faro del Casco Antiguo
ADR2025 attendees are invited to join us for an informal Event Dinner, to experience the food, ambience and entertainment Panama City has to offer. A relaxed evening of further networking and discussion whilst enjoying refreshments, great food and the incredible bay views across to Casco Viejo!
For more information, please contact a member of the PNYX team.
Thursday 27 March
Colon Room, Marriott Panama Hotel
8:15 - 8:55
Networking Registration
If not already done so, ADR2025 attendees may complete registration by collecting their delegate pack & event access pass (business card required) whilst networking and enjoying tea & coffee.
Headsets will be available again for simultaneous English-Spanish translation.
8:55 - 9:10
Day Two Welcoming Remarks
 
Rogerio Mobilia Silva, Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC)
UNOCHA - Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and ADR2025 CONFERENCE CHAIR
9:10 - 9:30
Keynote Address
 
Dr. Irwin Redlener, UCAP Co-Founder
Ukraine Children's Action Project (UCAP) & Columbia University
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
9:30 - 10:30
Panel 4: Strengthening Infrastructure Resilience and Jumpstarting Recovery
ADR2025’s day two opening panel explores strategies to enhance infrastructure resilience and accelerate reconstruction in a region prone to natural disasters and climate-related risks. Key issues include the provision of shelter and support for displaced populations, fostering local community engagement, and leveraging public-private partnerships to mobilise resources and drive innovation. Panellists explore how community-level infrastructure, such as local renewable energy projects, water and sanitation systems, and disaster-resistant housing, can be integrated into broader recovery efforts. Emphasis will be placed on empowering communities to co-design solutions that address immediate needs while building capacity for long-term resilience. Discussions also cover integrating disaster risk reduction into Public Infrastructure Planning, prioritising the use of sustainable materials, and ensuring equitable access to safe housing and services.
 
By showcasing successful case studies and collaboration models, the panel aims to identify opportunities to transition to green and sustainable economic activities while fostering inclusivity. These discussions will provide actionable insights to support recovery solutions that benefit communities across the Americas, Latin America, and the Caribbean region.
 
Panel Chair: Jorge Ortiz, International Sales Director of Western Shelter Systems
 
Lt Col Adam Starkey, Deputy Commander of Joint Task Force-Bravo
 
Dr. Brenden Jongman, Senior Disaster Risk Management Specialist of The World Bank
 
Eng. Miguel Angel Ortiz Pacheco, Deputy Director of Emergency Management of Chile SENAPRED - National Service for Disaster Prevention & Response
 
Omar Smith Gallardo, Director General of Panama SINAPROC - National Civil Protection System
10:20 - 10:30
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
10:30 - 10:50
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
10:50 - 11:50
Panel 5: Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management
Panel five explores the critical challenges and opportunities in humanitarian logistics and supply chain management across the region, with an emphasis on emergency response in remote and disaster-prone areas. Discussions explore innovative solutions for overcoming infrastructure and logistical bottlenecks, such as leveraging technology, data-driven strategies, and locally tailored approaches. Panellists also examine ways to enhance local, national, and regional systems to lead humanitarian efforts, focusing on building the capacity of local actors, fostering inclusive coordination mechanisms, and integrating region-specific strategies into global humanitarian frameworks. The discussion will address the need for equitable prioritisation amidst competing global demands, emphasising resilience, public-private partnerships, and sustainable solutions that ensure vulnerable populations are not overlooked. By aligning resources and expertise, the panel aims to provide actionable insights for a more inclusive and effective humanitarian response.
 
Panel Chair: Barry Koperberg, General Manager of Wings for Aid
 
Edy Ruiz, Director of Logistics of Guatemala National Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (CONRED)
 
Gabriela Cifuentes, Supply Chain Business Partner Senior Manager LAC of Save the Children
 
Holda Alvarez de Marré, Executive Director of Panama CLRAH - Regional Logistics Center for Humanitarian Assistance
 
Stephany Murillo, Manager - Logistics Unit of IFRC - International Federation of Red Cross & Red Crescent Societies
11:40 - 11:50
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
11:50 - 12:10
Networking Tea & Coffee Break
12:10 - 13:10
Panel 6: Harnessing Today and Tomorrow’s Technology for Disaster Risk Management
ADR2025’s concluding panel explores critical issues in communications and information management for the Americas, Latin America, and Caribbean region, emphasising financial sustainability, resilience, and community empowerment. Leveraging advancements in AI and foresighting tools, panellists explore how predictive analytics and scenario planning can enhance disaster response and long-term infrastructure development. But at the same time, for example, how disruptive can the use of AI be during all the disaster relief phases from risk reduction to recovery.
 
Discussions highlight the role of telecoms innovation in bridging gaps for underserved populations, while addressing data security challenges and inter-agency coordination. By incorporating new technologies and public-private partnerships, the session examines strategies for fostering inclusivity, resource sharing, and resilience in the face of the region's geographic and socio-economic diversity. Panellists also outline a forward-looking framework that aligns policy, investment, and emerging technologies to create sustainable, adaptive, and equitable communication systems for the future.
 
Panel Chair: Dana Yaari, Emergency Response Team Lead of Emergency Response Team by monday.com Foundation
 
Brendan Harvey, Executive Director of Help.NGO
 
Juan Cesario Salas Rosario, Executive Director of Dominican Civil Defense
 
Dr. Mary Showstark, Chief Liaison Officer of Health Tech Without Borders (HTWB)
 
Victor Martinez, Emergency & Preparedness Specialist of GSOA
13:00 - 13:10
Audience Discussion; Question & Answer Session
13:10 - 13:30
Recognition & Thanks
 
Rogerio Mobilia Silva, Deputy Head of Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (ROLAC)
UNOCHA - Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and ADR2025 CONFERENCE CHAIR
 
Andrew Dowell, Managing Director of PNYX
13:30 - 14:30
Networking Lunch Break
14:30 - 17:00
Disaster Relief Public-Private Sector Matchmaking Meetings
Afternoon session devoted to introductory 15-minute 1-2-1 matchmaking meetings between Government, UN, Disaster Agency and NGO stakeholders, and attending local, regional and global operators. Schedules are prearranged to provide a unique opportunity to discuss disaster reduction, response and relief solutions across the Americas, Latin America and Caribbean region.