Have you ever wondered who the people behind BlueOrchard are? As part of our #BOFaces series, we are happy to introduce Nino Pataraia, Senior Investment Officer at BlueOrchard in Georgia. We have interviewed Nino to better understand what drives her and why she enjoys working in the impact investing industry.

Nino, what do you like most about working at BlueOrchard?

Exposure to so many different cultures, traditions, languages, values, and beliefs – this fills life with colour and turns you into a great storyteller.

What is the best advice you have ever received?

“Dare to challenge the axioms” – i.e., not everything that is generally accepted is either good, ethical, useful, or right.

What is your passion besides BlueOrchard?

For the past ten years, I’ve been teaching finance at universities and training centers, partially on a voluntary basis. To me, the most rewarding thing about teaching is when you catch a satisfied “I get it” glance from students.

What is your favorite movie? Why?

The Matrix Trilogy –it is a visually impressive cyber adventure, full of kinetic excitement and mind-bending plot-twists. Over time my attention moved from visual effects to the storyline and the existential questions that were raised. These movies were way ahead of their time.

What is your favorite book? Why?

“Skin in the game” by N.N. Taleb – due to its simple argument: if you have no skin in the game, you shouldn’t be in the game. The book is about asymmetries in life, society, history, beliefs, and consequences. It offers a valuable insight into ethical aspects hindering contemporary science – e.g., the uncertainty and unreliable knowledge of our models.

Why did you decide to work in impact investing?

I believe all of our actions should come with a purpose. And it brings me joy to work in the industry that makes a positive impact in this world. BlueOrchard challenges social and environmental issues on a global scale. Poverty, access to education, female empowerment, income inequality, and climate crisis are the issues that I care about.

Thank you, Nino!