HADR Institute

Hannah Stoios is a seasoned professional with a dynamic career in humanitarian assistance, disaster risk reduction, and educational program management. With over a decade of diverse experience, she has contributed to global and regional initiatives that strengthen disaster resilience and humanitarian impact. At the HADR Institute, Hannah serves as a Humanitarian and Disaster Risk Reduction Advisor, drawing on her expertise to support community-centred and sustainable solutions. Her work includes developing and implementing programs in the Asia-Pacific region, with a focus on empowering local organisations to build capacity and foster resilience. Hannah's qualifications include a Master of Disaster, Design, and Development from RMIT University, complemented by a Master’s in Applied Linguistics from The University of Queensland. Her academic foundation is enriched by practical experience, including curriculum development for Australian Aid programs in Tonga and leadership roles in education and community-based initiatives. As an instructor, Hannah integrates her deep knowledge of disaster resilience, humanitarian principles, and participatory approaches to equip students with practical skills and critical perspectives. Her focus on localisation, inclusivity, and conflict-sensitive programming ensures participants are prepared to navigate complex humanitarian landscapes while prioritising the needs of affected communities.

Mitch King is an experienced leader in humanitarian and disaster management, with a career dedicated to supporting communities in complex and high-risk environments. As the founder and CEO of the HADR Institute, he has spearheaded innovative programs that focus on localisation, community-driven solutions, and anticipatory action. Holding a Master of Laws (LLM) specialising in International Humanitarian and Human Rights Law, Mitch combines academic expertise with practical field experience. He has received national commendations for establishing intelligence and disaster capabilities that supported critical awareness and early warning systems during emergencies. Mitch has also played a pivotal role in designing and implementing humanitarian programs and providing disaster intelligence to global crises. As an instructor, Mitch brings a wealth of knowledge and a collaborative teaching approach to equip students with practical skills in humanitarian principles, disaster intelligence, and conflict-sensitive programming. His focus on fostering inclusivity and sustainable impact ensures that students are prepared to navigate the complexities of modern humanitarian challenges and contribute meaningfully to the sector.

Riley is the Training and Development Coordinator at the HADR Institute. Her experience spans community resilience, humanitarian analysis, youth empowerment and tertiary education. Riley's educational qualifications include a Bachelor of International Studies majoring in International Relations and French, and a Master’s in International Relations - both completed at the University of Queensland. Her background includes significant roles in non-profit sectors, educational institutions, and international youth leadership initiatives such as Young Australians in International Affairs and the U.S. Consulate Brisbane Youth Advisory Council. As an instructor, Riley harnesses her experiences in these spaces to share insights on intersectionality, inclusivity, and gender-sensitive humanitarian programming and the geopolitics of aid. This ensures that course participants can learn about and develop responses that ensure fairness and independence.