Dr. Alison Thompson OAM | Global Humanitarian & Disaster Response Leader

    Alison Thompson: Humanitarian Who Responds With Heart

    Dumbo Feather reveals Alison Thompson’s humanitarian philosophy: responding with heart means acting with hands. From Ground Zero to Ukraine, each crisis has shaped her approach to global service. This is the story of how compassion becomes concrete help. Read Interview

    Everyone’s Needed, No Skills Required | TEDxCoconutGrove

    In her TEDx presentation, Alison Thompson shares frontline experiences from Ground Zero to the Greek refugee crisis. Her core message: anyone can change the world in crisis — no special skills required, only courage and an open heart. Watch TEDx

    2026 NSW Australian of the Year: Dr Alison Thompson OAM

    In 2026, Dr Alison Thompson OAM was named NSW Australian of the Year for decades of global humanitarian leadership. This recognition honors her ability to inspire thousands of volunteers to serve in the world’s most challenging conditions. Watch Reportage

    Leading Third Wave Volunteers in Ukraine Crisis

    Forbes profiles how Alison Thompson leads Third Wave Volunteers during Ukraine’s crisis. Her work continues a 20-year legacy of lifesaving missions — from tsunamis to wars. Global leadership begins with local action. Read in Forbes

    Australian Paramedic Receives US Presidential Award

    Alison Thompson receives the prestigious US Presidential Award for her extraordinary volunteer service. SBS News recognizes her as an Australian paramedic whose global humanitarian work exemplifies outstanding commitment to saving lives across continents. Read SBS News

    Third Wave Volunteers: Sponsored Impact Film

    This powerful sponsored film showcases Alison Thompson’s Third Wave Volunteers in action. The documentary captures the raw reality of humanitarian missions and the profound impact of ordinary people responding to extraordinary crises worldwide. Watch Film

    A Romance with Lemon Juice and Two Beach Towels

    The New York Times shares the remarkable personal story of Alison Thompson — from humanitarian missions to finding love. This feature reveals the human side behind the global leader, blending romance with her extraordinary life of service. Read NY Times

    The Volunteer Who Turned Lesbos into Home for Refugees

    CNN spotlights Alison Thompson’s transformative work on Lesbos during the Syrian refugee crisis. She turned a Greek island into a beacon of hope, personally welcoming thousands of refugees and creating community amidst chaos. Read CNN

    From Ground Zero to Global Humanitarian Leader

    The Miami Herald op-ed traces Alison Thompson’s journey from 9/11 Ground Zero responder to global humanitarian leader. This personal essay reveals the evolution of a woman who turned tragedy into a lifetime mission of service. Read Op-Ed

    2026 NSW Australian of the Year Recognition

    The Senior celebrates Dr Alison Thompson OAM as 2026 NSW Australian of the Year. This feature highlights her decades of inspiring leadership and service to communities facing the world’s greatest challenges. Watch Feature

    Get in Touch

    For speaking engagements, press inquiries, or to learn more about volunteering with Third Wave Volunteers.

    © 2026 Dr. Alison Thompson OAM. All rights reserved.