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Learning in the Humanitarian Operations Programme

In March 2023, learning specialists of the Humanitarian Leadership Academy provided face-to-face Humanitarian Operations Programme (HOP) training in Warsaw, Poland. We spoke with Joanna Dolinska, a business trainer, who took part in the 5-day first cohort of the HOP training as well as the Train the Trainer course.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I support organizations, managers, and leaders in developing dialogue and effective communication as a self-employed business trainer based in Warsaw, Poland. My passion is languages and communication, as I am a linguist by education with over a dozen years of experience in marketing and media.

How did you first get involved in humanitarian work?

As a qualified trainer working in Poland nowadays, I find myself working more and more often with different actors involved in humanitarian response in Ukraine – social workers, aid workers and coordinators, and volunteers who actively provide support interventions to those affected by the war in Ukraine as well as teachers who work with Ukrainian refugees in Poland. As a participant of the HOP Core Train the Trainer programme I was interested in both broadening my understanding of the humanitarian sector in Poland as well as in better preparing myself to respond to the needs of the sector as a trainer and facilitator.

How would you describe your experience with the HOP training?

Although it is an entry-level programme it is a very fast-paced and intense learning experience that requires full dedication and engagement from participants and facilitators alike.

Has your learning changed your outlook or approach to your humanitarian work?

For me, the biggest highlight of this programme was the people I was able to meet, interact with, and learn from. It serves as a reminder of how we, as humans, are all wired for connection.   

My goal as a trainer and facilitator is to support those committed to helping others: to support them in developing the professional skills, capabilities, knowledge, and resilience they need to effectively respond to emergencies.   

As a participant of the HOP Core Train the Trainer programme I was interested in both broadening my understanding of the humanitarian sector in Poland as well as in better preparing myself to respond to the needs of the sector as a trainer and facilitator.
Joanna Dolińska, Business trainer, Warsaw, Poland

Themes:

Kaya Eastern Europe capacity strengthening Humanitarian Operations Programme face-to-face training localisation

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