EMERGENCY HOUSING IN TIMES OF CRISIS

About the Project:

Airbnb.org responds to global crises by providing emergency housing to communities affected by conflict and natural disasters. Leveraging Airbnb’s platform and global network of Hosts, the organization connects people in need with available homes. For example, after the invasion of Ukraine, more than 6 million people fled the country, many arriving in European cities with no clear path forward. Hosts in countries like Poland and Germany opened their homes to offer temporary shelter and support. Following devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria, Airbnb.org partnered with local NGOs to provide stays for over 1,600 displaced people as well as first responders involved in rescue and relief efforts. When wildfires driven by fierce winds swept through central and western Maui, destroying Lahaina and parts of Upcountry, killing nearly 100 people, and displacing more than 7,400, Airbnb.org partnered with the State of Hawai‘i and local organizations to secure housing for at least 1,000 displaced residents.

My Role:

As Creative Director for three distinct photography and short film projects across Germany, Poland, Türkiye, and Hawaii, I was responsible for crafting a visual identity that embodied the organization’s mission and values. I collaborated closely with the team to shape the editorial direction, ensuring each story was both engaging and aligned with the brand’s strategic goals. I handpicked photographers and directors whose unique styles would best bring our creative vision to life.

Each location presented its own set of challenges and opportunities, and I provided hands-on leadership throughout the shoots, ensuring we met our editorial, creative, and brand objectives. Working closely with the Airbnb.org team in the US and the film and photography crews on location, I refined concepts, solved problems on the fly, and ensured the final imagery resonated powerfully with audiences. After the shoots, I led the post-production process, overseeing everything from editing and narrative structure to color grading and sound design. With a commitment to excellence in both execution and storytelling, we delivered visually captivating work that was striking and impactful.