PEOPLE
In the PEOPLE track, the shared purpose is to break new ground in product innovation and service delivery so we can reach the 1.4 billion people that still go without financial services. But it's not just about providing access. It's about truly getting to know the needs of underserved communities, designing financial solutions that don't just work for now but also help people build a brighter, debt-free future. Below an impression of some of these sessions.
Get out of your comfort zone with Nasira
FMO's Anneloes Mullink proudly showcased the Nasira hoodie featuring the slogan 'Get out of your Comfort Zone,' which underscores the overarching message of the Nasira program. The program encourages local financial institutions to lend to groups they typically perceive as too risky, thereby aiding them in breaking out of their comfort zones.
For more information on Nasira, please visit nasira.info
Shared insight
Tanmay Chetan, CEO & Co-founder of Agora Microfinance shared the insights from lean data to improve their processes and products to better service loan products for their customers - mainly small farmers and small entrepreneurs, majority of whom are women, at the bottom of the pyramid who’s customer service needs are not always obvious or clear.
Shared insight
During the ‘Responsible Finance Digital Ecosystem’ session, it was concluded that progress has been made in recent decades to strengthen consumer protection. However, this has not effectively curbed irresponsible practices in our fast-evolving market. If we genuinely aim to advance inclusive and responsible finance in the digital market, all players in the ecosystem need to elevate their game. It is crucial that every party in the ecosystem, including financial institutions, regulators, industry, and consumer associations, is on board.
Shared insight
At the 'Journeys in Gender Finance' panel, it was generally acknowledged that the conversation has shifted from why to collectively discussing how we can best invest in women. “We all recognize that it's not just the right thing to do, but plain smart business. Women have proven to be bankable, and we now have ample data to back up the business case.”
Anna Mwasha, Senior Manager Investor Relations at CRBD Bank Tanzania, attended the panel 'Journeys in Gender Finance.' Find out her key takeaways from this session.
What's being said
Watch Gus Poston, Co-founder & CEO of Bridge Philippines, share what he finds interesting about the Nasira program. If only it were offered in Asia as well.
What's being said
Beyond microfinance
Industry leaders came together to discuss new tech that has the potential to transform microfinance institutions and the way they reach underserved people. Accion’s John Fischer discussed innovative products, services, and strategies that build financial resilience with Arinjoy Dhar, Senior Director of Microfinance of Brac Microfinance in Bangladesh; Camilla Nestor, CEO of MCE Social Capital; Fenando Sanchex, CEO of BIM Investments; and Antoine Hurpin, Chief Digital Officer at CREDO Bank.