I just ran an impromptu 5K. With an Ambassador. From Atlanta. In Peru. On the Pacific. Did I mention I'm not much of a runner? Turns out running isn't so bad when you have a enthusiastic partner, talking about Latin American politics and the dynamics of US foreign policy. Whew!
The day started with an early meeting at the US Embassy, where we spoke with colleagues who are working on financial inclusion here in Lima. Then on to a local microfinance organization, Caja Nuestra Gente, to meet with the Executive Vice President. Though he spoke the fastest Spanish I've heard since living in Chile, I managed to catch most of his presentation. My favorite part: a new program that offers working capital loans to microentrepreneurs who collect, sort and sell recyclable materials to manufacturers. Empowering low-income individuals and helping the environment. I like it.
After a delightful lunch with two government lawyers working on secured transaction reform (*enabling small business to use movable assets, like inventory or machinery, as collateral for loans), we made our way to the Superintendency of Banking. Peru leads the region in positive regulation of microfinance, creating one of the best enabling environments for financial inclusion in the world. This was our opportunity to learn some of their tricks. It was an impressive two hours, in which they were generous with their expertise and even their gifts: we each left with "un torito rojo" (red mini-bull) that seconds as a piggy bank. I promise to put it to good use, Dad.
Peru is ahead of the game when it comes to financial inclusion. The Superintendent understands the importance of balancing risk and innovation, as well as the difference between an informed role for government and an interventionist one. The next step is to incorporate the huge potential of mobile money into their pursuit of financial inclusion.
Off to dinner...palta, palmito, y pisco, mis favoritos!
The day started with an early meeting at the US Embassy, where we spoke with colleagues who are working on financial inclusion here in Lima. Then on to a local microfinance organization, Caja Nuestra Gente, to meet with the Executive Vice President. Though he spoke the fastest Spanish I've heard since living in Chile, I managed to catch most of his presentation. My favorite part: a new program that offers working capital loans to microentrepreneurs who collect, sort and sell recyclable materials to manufacturers. Empowering low-income individuals and helping the environment. I like it.
After a delightful lunch with two government lawyers working on secured transaction reform (*enabling small business to use movable assets, like inventory or machinery, as collateral for loans), we made our way to the Superintendency of Banking. Peru leads the region in positive regulation of microfinance, creating one of the best enabling environments for financial inclusion in the world. This was our opportunity to learn some of their tricks. It was an impressive two hours, in which they were generous with their expertise and even their gifts: we each left with "un torito rojo" (red mini-bull) that seconds as a piggy bank. I promise to put it to good use, Dad.
Peru is ahead of the game when it comes to financial inclusion. The Superintendent understands the importance of balancing risk and innovation, as well as the difference between an informed role for government and an interventionist one. The next step is to incorporate the huge potential of mobile money into their pursuit of financial inclusion.
Off to dinner...palta, palmito, y pisco, mis favoritos!
Hey Caroline - I have just read all of your entries, and I am so inspired by your geographical journeys AND your inner journey. Your writing is irresistible, and your overall message shines through your every move. Keep it coming! Love, Sally McKay
ReplyDeleteCaroline, I have just read all of your blog entries and am so moved by your journey! I also just read Sally McKay's comment above mine and can't find words to improve on hers.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your beautiful sharing of such an amazing journey for you. I am so happy that you, your precious mom and your beloved sister could have such a wonderful experience together. I spent over an hour with your mother today hearing her stories about your time together. I am so impressed with your already assimilated wisdom and willingness to share so we can all learn from you.
Love always,
Salley