This article examines the role of women in post-tsunami livelihood in Sri Lanka, and argues that location and ethnicity impact on the ability of actors to respond to disasters. The author shows that despite pre-existing gendered and racial inequalities, the tsunami created new patterns of cultural practices, thus challenging the simplistic representation of women as ‘victims’. She identifies 4 recovery strategies implemented by women: mobilizing kin networks, care work, economic activity and participating in Community Based Organisation (CBO) meetings.