In this episode of Not Really Strangers, Suzanne sits down with Colin Browne—newly appointed board member at USA for UNHCR. His experience as a former global supply chain leader, and someone who’s lived in nine countries, offers a rare behind-the-scenes perspective on displacement. From a powerful refugee simulation in Hong Kong to the role businesses can play in humanitarian crises, Colin shares what connects us, why the private sector matters, and why he believes we’re not really strangers.

Topics Discussed:

• How a 24-hour immersive simulation reshaped Colin’s understanding of the refugee experience
• The surprising ways global supply chains intersect with displacement crises
• Why most refugees are hosted in low- and middle-income countries, not wealthy nations—and what that means for humanitarian response
• The critical role the private sector can play alongside governments in addressing global crises
• Why the phrase Not Really Strangers reflects our shared humanity, no matter our backgrounds

Episode Resources

• Report: Nearly 2 million refugees at risk as Uganda emergency funds dwindle and services cut
• Report: Refugees generated a stunning 2.7 percent of Poland’s GDP in 2024, study shows
• Crossroads Foundation Hong Kong

Resources:

• Podcast show notes
• Donate now
• Follow USA for UNHCR on Instagram
• Connect with Suzanne on LinkedIn