ALL MATERIAL COPYRIGHT BEYOUROWN 2026

5 Ways To Provide Ongoing Support For World Humanitarian Day By Emmanuel Jean, Head Of Communication At Télécoms Sans Frontières

pexels-lagos-food-bank-initiative-8060300
The United Nations appointed the 19th of August as World Humanitarian Day. This year's theme is ‘#NoMatterWhat ’ - recognising the courage and dedication of humanitarian aid workers when delivering life-saving support. This theme shines a much-needed light on all people in need. In an increasingly digitalised global society, individuals rely on technology for news, contacting their loved ones, and geographical coordination - many of the elements required to keep the human race connected. During a humanitarian crisis, affected people will often no longer have access to technology which can leave individuals vulnerable to misinformation, exploitation, or health issues as a result.    Télécoms Sans Frontières (TSF) is the world’s first non-profit organisation (NGO) to use telecommunications technology to offer solutions to humanitarian crises. They bring people together from all walks of life from emergency responders, volunteers, and international organisations during crises, by setting up rapid-response communications centres in affected areas. Since 1998, TSF has provided 642,000 people with essential information via their information diffusion system and almost 664,588 people benefitted from the connectivity provided. In addition, TSF has also spearheaded activities around digital inclusion that have benefited 80,093 people so far.   World Humanitarian Day articles generate a generous amount of traction at this time of year. The reality is that humanitarian crises don’t disappear when the headlines change. The news covers the most engaging and relevant stories of the day, the everyday hardships faced by victims of humanitarian crises have begun before the paper's press publish.  Despite the positive support and attention to NGOs on World Humanitarian Day, the impact can’t be limited to a single day. 24 hours is a lot of time to do good work, as explored by TSF in their blog on  ‘A Day in an International Humanitarian Organisation’. However, to make a significant change, the support must be constant, sustained, and prolonged.  So, lets explore five ways to provide ongoing support to humanitarian crises beyond World Humanitarian Day.  Partnership program There are several benefits to partnering with TSF beyond supporting the organisations' missions in humanitarian zones. Businesses can boost employee engagement and create a meaningful corporate social responsibility program. Depending on the country, there is a tax deduction benefit for TSF’s operational and corporate partners.  Operational partnerships assist with technological equipment in various forms. Whilst corporate partnerships have more of a financial impact on the charity which enables them to get on the ground. Partner contributions are integral to all humanitarian missions, regardless of crisis location, the humanitarian need, and the volume of media coverage around the event. Depending on your organisation, further information can be found here.  Fundraisers TSF accepts contributions to their organisation in many ways, and organisation fundraisers can significantly help. Whether it’s a bake sale, a sponsored fitness activity or the finance department can even match a general staff crowdfund to donate!   Microdon - contribution from salary Similar to a pension, opting in for an automatic salary deduction is called a microdon. Several companies have opted for an established, easy-to-implement system when partnering with TSF. It’s a great way to provide sustained support as it allows TSF to allocate its resources accurately with a stable source of support. Implement a pro bono client or flexibility for pro bono work One of the challenges for technical responders and volunteers who are interested in working on the ground is their fixed working schedules. Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in flexible working policies with hybrid and remote practices. Some companies take on pro-bono work through a client or partnership model, other businesses encourage each employee to volunteer at a chosen cause. Think about which practice would work best for your organisation and implement a company-wide policy to allow such activities.   Newsletter By subscribing to the TSF newsletter, you can stay updated with humanitarian crises beyond the headlines, and understand where technology and humanitarian crises meet.  These are a few suggestions, however, feel free to get creative with how to help. Businesses have untapped potential to make a significant positive impact on the world - beyond a single day. Whether it’s at the TSF headquarters in France or one of their bases in Ukraine, Mexico, Singapore, or Madagascar, let’s make a change together! 

Read More
Membership Personal Invitation

Leading Like a Pro: Enhancing Leadership Skills for Female Founders

|BEYOUROWN Team
In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, female founders face unique challenges and opportunities. Navigating the path to success requires not only a compelling vision but also robust leadership skills. For...