The "Loan" Ranger: A Journey Through the World of Microfinance

My interest in microfinance started during my undergraduate studies at Wesleyan University, where I focused on International Relations and economic development. During my senior year, I initiated a semester-long research project examining Latin America’s experience with microfinance.  Since graduating in 2007, I have committed myself to working directly on economic development projects in the Middle East region. Following graduation, I worked as a consultant for an international youth entrepreneurship organization. I then moved to Cairo, Egypt with a Fulbright award to study microfinance in Egypt. In Cairo, I worked with a number of local organizations, such as the Arab-African Initiative, on capacity-building programs and developing relationships with regional microfinance professionals. Currently, I am working with FINCA International on a comprehensive assessment of its Jordan clients. Throughout, I have been deepening my Arabic language skills and broadening my practical understanding of microfinance organizations in the region.

As a KIVA Fellow, I will achieve several objectives that are integral to my continued work in the international microfinance industry. First, I will enhance my understanding of the industry at a capacity-building level. Second, I will further develop my expertise of the industry at a grassroots level. Finally, by working with one of KIVA’s Middle East partners, I will add to the breadth and scope of my previous work in the region. I am especially interested to learn how KIVA works to increase transparency and demonstrate impact at the donor, organizational, and community levels.  It is encouraging to know that the industry is shifting towards a more sustainable approach that emphasizes both social and financial returns as a result of KIVA’s innovative work.

At the grassroots level, active engagement with clients is essential to providing better services. My assignment with FINCA International is to carry out a comprehensive assessment of 500-600 clients in Jordan. It is through these in-depth interviews that I have come to learn the main challenges facing FINCA’s clients and to better understand their professional and personal goals. The findings of this study will help shape FINCA Jordan’s future marketing strategy and product offerings.

Furthermore, a regional approach to microfinance will only be effective if it incorporates localized strategies and solutions. From the countries I have worked in (Egypt, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates), I have learned that country-specific expertise is integral to an organization’s success, whether it be for a seemingly small issue such as adapting colloquial Arabic terminology when conducting client interviews, or tailoring products to meet the needs of a certain community.  My travels to Oman, Syria, Lebanon, and Morocco have further strengthened my appreciation for the region’s diversity. I am ready to support one of KIVA’s Middle East partners to enhance my understanding of these localized differences.

I look forward to contributing to both KIVA and its Middle East partner in terms of improving organizational processes and promoting best practices.  Microfinance has been a central part of my work and academic experience and I am confident that this opportunity will enable me to achieve the aforementioned objectives.

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