Behind every humanitarian response are people working tirelessly to support communities through some of life’s most difficult moments.
For World Humanitarian Day, we’re shining a spotlight on our partner, Juba Foundation, a Somali-led organization that has supported communities affected by displacement, conflict, and the climate crisis for more than 20 years.
Recently, members of the Juba Foundation team took part in a video project, sharing more about who they are and what motivates their work. We also spoke with Yussuf Ahmed Mohamed, Communication Lead at Juba Foundation, about the power of storytelling, the importance of partnership and his hopes for the future.
Meet the Juba Foundation team
Sharing stories that matter
As Communication Lead at Juba Foundation, Yussuf helps document and share the impact of the organisation’s work across Somalia.
A typical day might involve visiting project sites, interviewing community members, capturing photos and videos, developing communications materials and working closely with partners, including ShelterBox.
For Yussuf, storytelling is about ensuring people’s experiences are represented accurately and respectfully.
“Humanitarian work is built on human connection, commitment and compassion. By sharing who we are and what motivates us, we help people better understand the individuals behind the projects and the passion that drives our work every day.”
Bringing the team’s stories to life
As part of preparations for the World Humanitarian Day video, members of the Juba Foundation team received piece-to-camera (PTC) training to help build confidence in speaking directly to camera.
For Yussuf, one lesson stood out above all others: “The most valuable lesson I took away was the importance of authenticity. People connect more strongly with genuine stories and sincere communication than with perfectly scripted messages.”
The training helped team members communicate their experiences more clearly and confidently, allowing viewers to hear directly from the people behind the work.
Challenging perceptions of displacement
Through his communications work, Yussuf has seen first-hand the challenges faced by communities affected by displacement. But he believes it is important to look beyond the hardships.
“Displaced communities are not defined only by their challenges. They are resilient individuals and families who continue to show remarkable strength, determination, and hope despite difficult circumstances.”
He explains that many families are working hard to rebuild their lives and create better futures for their children: “What they need is not sympathy alone but meaningful opportunities, support and investment that enable them to recover and thrive with dignity.”
The value of partnership
Partnerships play an important role in helping organizations like Juba Foundation reach more people and strengthen their impact.
According to Yussuf, working alongside ShelterBox has helped provide safe shelter solutions and essential items for families affected by climate-related disasters and conflict.
The partnership has also supported capacity strengthening through initiatives such as communications and piece-to-camera training.
“This support has helped us not only deliver assistance more effectively but also tell the stories of affected communities in a more impactful and professional way.”
Looking to the future
Despite the challenges communities continue to face, Yussuf remains hopeful. What inspires him most is the resilience he sees every day.
“Despite experiencing displacement, drought, conflict and other challenges, people continue to support one another, adapt and work towards a better future.”
He also believes that strong local and international partnerships are key to creating lasting change: “When people come together with a shared commitment to positive change, real progress is possible. Seeing families move into safer shelters and regain a sense of security and dignity reminds me that our work is making a difference and contributes to a more hopeful future.”
Every story we share is a reminder that behind every humanitarian response are people with hopes, dreams and resilience. It is a privilege to help amplify their voices and showcase the positive impact that communities can achieve when they are supported with dignity and respect.
– Yussuf Ahmed Mohamed, Communication Lead, Juba Foundation
