Interview with Meenakshi Coondiah: A Journey in Development Finance and Women’s Economic Empowerment
Get real time updates directly on you device, subscribe now.
In an insightful interview with Kadmiel Van Der Puije, CEO of The Voice of Africa, Meenakshi Coondiah shares her journey from the African Leadership Academy to her impactful work in development finance and women’s economic empowerment. This conversation sheds light on her educational influences, cultural background, passion for travel, and her commitment to gender equality in finance.
Educational Foundations at the African Leadership Academy
Meenakshi’s time at the African Leadership Academy (ALA) was transformative. Reflecting on this period, she told Kadmiel, “The ALA ignited a profound sense of duty towards catalyzing positive change across Africa.” The dynamic environment at ALA fostered her passion for International Trade and Investment, and Women’s Economic Empowerment, providing her with invaluable knowledge and instilling a deep commitment to leadership and social impact.
Her work with MiDA Advisors, focusing on development finance, was a direct result of this formative experience. Starting at MiDA, Meenakshi led the internal operations and logistics of the pioneering Women Empowerment Mentoring and Incubation Fund Manager Program of Southern Africa, resulting in a successful commitment of over $21 million to cohort members. “My experience at the ALA set the stage for my career in driving economic empowerment and fostering inclusive growth in Africa,” she explained. This trajectory has allowed her to leverage Africa’s economic resources to drive positive developments on the continent.
Cultural Influences from Mauritius
Growing up in Mauritius, an island known for its beautiful beaches and cultural diversity, has significantly shaped Meenakshi’s perspective on financial development initiatives in Africa. “Mauritius is a melting pot community,” she shared with Kadmiel. “This diversity and inclusivity influenced my belief in harnessing local knowledge and partnerships for sustainable economic growth.”
Her work at MiDA Advisors involves collaborating with fund managers whose funds are domiciled in Mauritius. The island’s expertise in financial structuring and its favorable regulatory environment provide valuable insights into innovative investment vehicles for development projects in Africa. “It’s inspiring to witness African stakeholders capitalizing on Mauritius’ strengths to drive businesses in Africa,” she added.
Integrating Travel into Professional Life
Traveling is a transformative aspect of Meenakshi’s life, and she discussed its importance with Kadmiel. “Traveling allows me to gain a deeper understanding of diverse cultures, perspectives, and economic landscapes,” she explained. Her exposure to different environments enriches her professional outlook and enhances her ability to navigate complex global challenges.
Having traveled to eight countries, Meenakshi finds that each experience broadens her cultural horizons and informs her work in development finance. Whether it’s experiencing local cuisines, engaging with communities, or exploring historical sites, these experiences foster adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills essential for her collaborations across Africa.
Empowering Girls in Mauritius with Financial Literacy
One of Meenakshi’s significant initiatives is focusing on Personal Finance for young girls in Mauritius. This project stemmed from her college capstone course, where she recognized the urgent need to address the gender gap in financial education. “I was often one of the few female students in my finance classes, which highlighted the importance of empowering women in finance,” she told Kadmiel.
Her initiative leverages the StockTrack platform as a teaching and learning tool for students in Mauritius. It includes personal budgeting games and real-time stock simulations, tailored for junior and high school classes. The goal is to equip girls with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial choices and pursue their aspirations with financial independence.
Research on Gender Balance in Southern African Finance
Meenakshi also discussed her research paper, “A Gender Balanced Economy Through The Lens Of Southern African Female Fund Managers,” highlighting the significant impact of women-led and women-owned fund managers. “These leaders challenge traditional norms, bring in fresh perspectives and innovative strategies to the finance sector,” she noted.
However, her research also revealed persistent gender gaps and challenges such as underrepresentation at top levels of finance. To address these issues, Meenakshi calls for well-designed systems, economic empowerment programs and policies, networking opportunities, and mentorship for women in finance. “By amplifying their success stories and advocating for greater support, we can accelerate progress towards gender parity and inclusive finance,” she concluded.
Meenakshi Coondiah’s journey, as shared in this interview with Kadmiel Van Der Puije, is a testament to the power of education, cultural diversity, and a commitment to gender equality in driving economic development. Her work continues to inspire and pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous Africa.
