The Catalyst

Following the December 2004 Tsunami disaster, Aid organisations and governments in affected regions sought to provide the 3 R's: Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction.

The Call to Action

In May 2005, representatives of AIPM and PMI met to discuss how Project Managers could assist with their expertise in the Post Tsunami work efforts.

The meeting entitled Post Tsunami - Earthquake; "Reconstruction in Indonesia and Project Management".

An insight was given into the reconstruction in Banda Aceh and Simeuleu Island, Indonesia with respect to project led reconstruction.

A key outcome following this session was the formation of 'Project Aid'.

Rising to the challenge

Following this session, a working group of motivated project managers was formed to develop the capability of the Project Aid Group.

During May-June 2005 a capability analysis was developed in preparation for engagement with relevant organisations involved in post tsunami - rehabilitation, reconstruction and relief activities.

An extensive period of planning and research was undertaken to create a strategy and plan to engage with the NGO and relief sector.

In February 2006, Project Aid formally incorporated as an Incorporated Association to pursue the organisations' objectives.

In August 2006, Project Aid strategy was formally revised at the inaugural Annual General Meeting to define Project Aid activities to the provision of Project Management Training and Remote Mentoring.