Staff

Melisa Samuelson, Executive Director

How did you first hear about microfinance? In 2005 I attended a lecture given by Dr. Yunus hosted by the Young Professionals International Network and the World Affairs Council in Seattle. As a business professional, his message and ideas deeply resonated with me and inspired me, implanting a desire to get involved in microfinance.

What appeals to you most about microfinance? Microfinance provides a real, sustainable solution to lift people out of poverty.

When telling others about microfinance, what question do you most frequently get? “How can I get involved?”

Aside from SeaMo do you, or have you, contributed to other microfinance organizations? Yes, there are so many great microfinance organizations. I have donated to Unitus and Global Partnerships, as well as made loans through Kiva.

If you could make a microloan to any type of business, what would it be? I prefer to make microloans to women, who suffer disproportionately from poverty and who are more likely to invest their earnings in furthering the future of their families. I look for businesses that are unique. For instance, in a village where 90% of the microloans are going to businesses that focus on similar textile products, I’d rather donate to a woman who wants to do something different (e.g. a food stand).

In a word or phrase, how would you describe microfinance? Real sustainable change through empowerment.