Irantzu (Iru) Serra Lasa
Iru founded ResilireD with a vision to revolutionize disaster risk reduction and urban development. With over two decades of experience in disaster management, humanitarian shelter, Housing, Land, and Property rights in crises contexts, and client / social safeguards across Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Africa, and Europe, she has been a pivotal force in shaping resilient housing and post-disaster reconstruction worldwide. Her expertise in navigating complex crises and her commitment to equitable solutions have positioned ResilireD as a thought leader in the field.
An Architect and Urban Planner by training by the Escuela Tecnica Superior de Arquitectura de Madrid (UPM), she has provided technical advisory services on disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, and Housing, Land, and Property (HLP) rights to governments, NGOs, UN agencies, Philanthropists, and academic institutions. Iru has led large-scale disaster response and reconstruction operations, including advisory and leadership roles with the American Red Cross, IFRC, and Habitat for Humanity International, where she led humanitarian and post-disaster housing recovery efforts across the organization’s global and US footprint.
Iru has led the development and implementation of organizational safeguarding systems that address power imbalances and prioritize the protection of vulnerable communities. At Habitat for Humanity International, she co-led the inception of the global Safeguarding Framework, embedding accountability and survivor-centered practices across more than 70 national offices and 1,100 U.S. affiliates. As an associate consultant with Safe Organizations LLC, she continues to advise institutions on building safe, respectful, and responsive environments in humanitarian and development settings. Her work reflects a deep commitment to ethical practice, protection, and systemic change.
Through her consultancy practice at ResilireD, she supports resilience-building initiatives that are trauma-informed, rights-based, and rooted in a commitment to safeguarding and social equity. With her deep technical expertise and frontline operational experience, Iru serves as a trusted advisor to philanthropic actors seeking to align investments with the realities and needs of communities affected by crisis. She supports donors and foundations in designing and evaluating initiatives that are responsive, locally grounded, and centered on equity and resilience. Her ability to bridge programmatic knowledge and strategic philanthropy ensures that funding decisions are informed, impactful, and ethically grounded.
Her academic role as Adjunct Lecturer at Howard University College of Engineering and Architecture (Department of Architecture) bridges practice and pedagogy, focusing on ethical, inclusive approaches to development in the built environment.
Our Vision for Equitable Impact
At ResilireD, we envision a world where global philanthropy is seamlessly integrated with local realities, ensuring that every investment leads to meaningful change. Our commitment is to bridge the gap between donors and communities, fostering partnerships that prioritize sustainable impact and resilience in the face of adversity. By aligning strategic insights with community needs, we aim to transform the landscape of crisis response and recovery.
Guiding Principles
Our Core Values: Building Resilience with Integrity
Our Commitment
At ResilireD, we are steadfast in our dedication to fostering enduring change in disaster response and recovery. Our approach is rooted in collaboration, ensuring that every initiative is tailored to the unique needs of the communities we serve. By prioritizing local knowledge and expertise, we aim to create solutions that are sustainable and impactful. Our commitment extends beyond immediate relief, focusing on long-term resilience and equitable recovery. We believe in empowering communities to lead their own recovery efforts, ensuring that our work leaves a lasting positive legacy.
We are committed to transparency and accountability in all our endeavors. By maintaining open communication with our partners and stakeholders, we ensure that our actions align with our mission to create meaningful impact. Our team is driven by a passion for innovation and excellence, continuously seeking new ways to enhance our effectiveness and reach. At ResilireD, we are more than just a service provider; we are a partner in building a safer, more resilient future for all.
Our Services
ResilireD offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to enhance disaster resilience and community strength. Our expertise spans strategic giving advisory services, program design and implementation, and training, each tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients and partners. We are committed to delivering solutions that are innovative, effective, and grounded in local realities.
Strategic Giving Advisory
Our strategic advisory services are designed to help philanthropic organizations maximize their impact in disaster resilience and housing. We provide expert guidance on designing giving strategies, selecting trusted partners, and navigating complex compliance landscapes. Our goal is to ensure that every philanthropic dollar is used effectively to create lasting change.
Program Implementation
We partner with international NGOs and institutions to co-create programs that address disaster risk reduction, housing, and climate resilience. Our approach is collaborative, ensuring that each program is tailored to the specific context and needs of the communities we serve. We focus on building infrastructure and systems that are resilient and sustainable.
Training and Capacity Building
Our training services are designed to empower local leaders and organizations with the skills and knowledge needed to drive effective disaster response and recovery. We offer customized workshops, coaching, and capacity assessments to strengthen organizational capabilities and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
Partner with Us for Lasting Impact
Join forces with ResilireD to transform your philanthropic vision into tangible, community-centered outcomes. Whether you’re looking to initiate a project, form strategic alliances, or explore collaborative opportunities, our expertise in disaster resilience and urban development is at your service. Together, let’s drive change that resonates globally and locally.