Beyond the hype: Ground truth on AI across the humanitarian sector

This is a recording of a webinar held on 26 February 2026 by the Humanitarian Leadership Academy in partnership with Data Friendly Space. *** Artificial intelligence (AI) is moving fast – but what’s really happening in humanitarian organisations on the ground right now? AI use and conviction in its benefits are surging – but how can we harness it safely and responsibly? The Humanitarian Leadership Academy and Data Friendly Space present insights from 1,729 humanitarians from 120+ countries who responded to the January 2026 Humanitarian AI pulse survey, offering a vital check-in on how practitioners are experiencing AI today. Tune in for a candid, dynamic discussion together with panellists. Hear experiences and perspectives of where AI is creating value, where risks and gaps are emerging, and where collective action is most needed to shape a more locally led and accountable AI future. Speakers: Rebecca Chandiru, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator at the Humanitarian OpenStreetMap Team ESA Hub Liz Devine, Head of Program Technical Team, GOAL Global Lucy Hall, Research and MEAL Lead, Humanitarian Leadership Academy Madigan Johnson, Head of Communications, Data Friendly Space Timi Olagunju, Policy expert, lawyer, and governance strategist, The Timeless Practice Nayid Orozco Bohorquez, Chief Product Officer, Data Friendly Space Ka Man Parkinson, Communications and Marketing Lead, Humanitarian Leadership Academy Visit the webinar webpage for further information including speaker bios, session slide deck and transcript: https://www.humanitarianleadershipaca...