There is a common belief that many gender-specific problems such as death, domestic violence, local governance and economic insecurity aggravated after the tsunami as they were more vulnerable in the society. However, some women formed societies within their communities and were able to achieve many benefits and be empowered. These local societies were successful in partnering with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to secure funding for post-tsunami recovery work in their local communities. In this publication, the relationship between a community based women’s organisation, and a Northern NGO is examined. The aim is to provide an understanding of gender strategies that operate within the two bodies and the mechanisms in which knowledge on gender is passed on between the different levels of the organizations. In conclusion, the lessons learnt from this study have been reflected on and recommendations made on how to rearrange gender strategies in organizations and collaborations for the future.