The power of bridging ties in disaster resilience

In the world of disaster resilience, we often talk about the importance of people. We know that systems and technology play a role in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from disasters. But time and again, evidence shows it’s the relationships we build – our social capital – that make the biggest difference.

Within social capital, bridging ties are some of the most valuable and yet the hardest to form.

Unlike bonding ties (connecting with people similar to you, such as with family and friends) or linking ties (connections with people or organisations in roles of authority or influence), bridging ties connect us to people who are different from us – across geographies, sectors, and perspectives.

These ties expand our horizons, give us access to new information, and open the door to fresh opportunities. In disaster resilience, they help us learn from communities beyond our own, share solutions, and create networks of support that stretch far further than our neighbourhoods.

From virtual to real: building a bridge with After the Fire

A few years ago, I connected online with Jennifer Grey Thompson, CEO of After the Fire in Sonoma County, California. Jennifer and I shared a common mission: strengthening communities through connection and resilience.

For a long time, our tie existed virtually – through Zoom calls, shared ideas, and mutual support from across the Pacific Ocean. But this year, that virtual bridge became a reality. I was honoured to deliver a keynote at the After the Fire Summit in Sonoma, standing side by side with Jennifer and her incredible team.

What started as a digital introduction had grown into a strong bridging tie – one that has created opportunities for collaboration, learning, and impact on both sides of the world.

Resilience grows through connection

At Resilient Ready, we say that social capital is the invisible foundation of resilience. Bridging ties form a vital part of that foundation. When communities and leaders invest in building and maintaining these ties, they’re not just preparing for disasters – they’re creating stronger, more connected societies.

My journey with Jennifer Grey Thompson and After the Fire is proof of what happens when those bridges are built. A virtual introduction became a powerful collaboration. An overseas friendship became a shared stage. And together, we are growing resilience that spans across borders.

Because resilience doesn’t stop at the edge of a community. It flows through the bridges we build.

Resilient Ready is a social enterprise delivering innovative solutions to enable every organisation to thrive before, during and after disasters. To keep updated on news and current projects, sign up to our newsletter.