This week, we had the pleasure of speaking with Ndirangu Warugongo, Investment Officer, based in our Nairobi office. Continue reading if you want to find out what he likes most about working at BlueOrchard, the impact investing industry, and his most memorable experience at BlueOrchard.

What is the most memorable experience you have had during your time at BlueOrchard?

Our team had the opportunity to attend one of the all-women’s weekly group meetings. The group came together to manage repayments for the business loans, and to set aside a rainy-day fund to support each other. What stood out to me, was a young school aged girl who had accompanied her mother that week. As such she was privy to ongoing financial lessons on borrowing, saving, and growing a variety of businesses. To me this level of financial literacy particularly in context where women are less encouraged to be financial independent, was remarkable.

What do you enjoy most about working at BlueOrchard?

There is something special about being part of a global team committed to finding innovative solutions to the biggest problems we face today. Even here in Nairobi, I am continuously challenged by the unique perspectives and dedication of our team. This means that each day offers not only the opportunity to grow my knowledge of the industry, but also interrogate my own perspective and the role we each play to create a positive impact in our communities.

What do you like the most about working in the impact investing industry?

Since joining the Africa team at BlueOrchard, I have had the chance to travel and meet some of the leading minds in the industry – across the continent. Each geography poses new challenges and opportunities that take on a variety of products and solutions. But as an Investment Officer, my role necessitates not only an understanding of the ideocracies within our target markets, but also how the global macroeconomic trends affect the types of solutions and investment opportunities we can explore.

Thank you, Ndirangu.