ReImagina Puerto Rico
Co-designing for a coordinated recovery and reconstruction in post-hurricane Puerto Rico
Following the impacts of Hurricanes Irma and María, ReImagina Puerto Rico set out to build and implement a strategic framework to guide a coordinated disaster recovery and reconstruction process across Puerto Rico and the USA. Through multi-sector engagements, including working groups, community town halls, and co-design workshops, we identified actionable recommendations that prioritize equity, transparency, and long-term resilience. In my role, I designed and supported the facilitation of all our working groups and co-design engagements. I also synthesized insights to translate community and expert input into strategic recommendations that continue to inform policy, investment, and rebuilding efforts on the island today.
Years
2018 - 2019
Industry
Disaster Recovery & Resilience Planning
Location
Puerto Rico
Scope
Co-Design, Design Strategy, Design Research, Workshop Design & Facilitation
Project Background
In the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and María, Puerto Rico was faced by numerous physical, social, and economic challenges. As such, The Rockefeller Foundation, Ford Foundation, and Open Society Foundations joined efforts to create the Resilient Puerto Rico Advisory Commission in the hopes to maximize the efforts for the island's reconstruction process.
Approach
Through a participatory and engaging process, the Commission’s project, ReImagina Puerto Rico, set out to develop actionable recommendations for the resilient rebuilding of the island. Our approach included collaborative sessions, such as working groups and focus groups, with technical experts, community leaders, local organizations, government officials and even the diaspora. Using community-driven and human-centered design, we facilitated the synthesis, prioritization, and launch of 50+ action recommendations. Throughout the process, I trained the team in human-centered design practices to promote a culture of inclusion and collaboration, both in our approach and during our engagements.
The Impact
The project’s efforts resulted in a series of reports, including one highlighting the highest-priority recommendations and another six reports, one per sector. Over the years, ReImagina’s recommendations have informed policy, investment, and rebuilding efforts on the island.
To find out more about this project and the approach to community engagement please visit the ReImagina Puerto Rico website.
