On March 18, at the social investors networking event hosted by AVPN (Asian Venture Philanthropy Network) in Taiwan, Kensuke Onishi, A-PAD’s CEO, took the stage to present the organization’s initiatives. 

The event brought together 37 organizations – corporations, government agencies, incubators, venture capitalists, and NGOs, for panel talks and discussions centered on the theme “Funding Resilience in Compound Crises: Cross-Sector Partnership When Climate Change and Conflict Collide.” 

The event served as a platform for organizations to share their expertise on the significance and practical applications of community resilience. Participants also engaged in a vibrant exchange of ideas regarding how Taiwan can contribute to strengthening resilience across Asia.

Onishi presented case studies of A-PAD’s activities highlighting its track record of implementing activities through public-private partnerships across multiple countries. He also called on Taiwan’s younger generation and private sector to actively participate in A-PAD’s initiatives. Delivering a message to encourage collaboration in disaster response, Onishi stated, “As fellow members of the Asia-Pacific region, I would like us to learn, prepare, support one another, and take action together.” He also reiterated that firsthand experience in disaster response is what truly leads to enhanced resilience. He emphasized the importance of accumulating this expertise by dispatching volunteers from Taiwan whenever disasters occur in Japan or across Asia.

In responding to disasters that can strike anytime and anywhere, the key lies not only in government action but also in establishing networks with the private sector during non-emergency times, ensuring the participation of the younger generation, and preparing to support communities across national and regional borders.  A-PAD will continue to deepen its collaboration with the people of Taiwan and the broader Asian region, expanding a community-based network for disaster preparedness and mitigation.