I am Ilana Nzizera, currently in my fourth year, majoring in Economics with a minor in International Development Studies. Originally from Rwanda, a country bursting with potential, my academic journey has been a quest to grasp economic growth, financial changes, and the role of Fintech in driving financial inclusion and development. My curiosity drove me to pursue an internship, bridging the gap between classroom theories and real-world actions. I longed to witness how economic principles play out in the real world, especially in developing nations where policies and technological innovations shape growth paths.
During my internship, I embarked on a dual journey, learning from two different yet connected organizations. My first stop was the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), a government body orchestrating various agencies to attract investments and boost the nation's economy. Within RDB's export department, I contributed to organizing international roadshows and trade fairs. This involved identifying local businesses ready for global exposure, giving me a deeper understanding of how local ventures connect globally. Alongside dedicated professionals, I witnessed the tangible results of collaborative efforts, elevating Rwanda's economic status worldwide.
Transitioning to the next phase of my internship, I dived into transformative financial technology at MTN Mobile Money Rwanda. This exposed me to the close link between finance and technology, where innovation and accessibility go hand in hand. My focus was on MTN Mobile Money's pioneering OpenAPI service, a game-changer that opened access to the mobile money platform. Unlike traditional methods, MTN allowed third-party developers to use their API, empowering them to make the most of the mobile money software. In this innovative setting, I contributed to the Mobile Money App and website, essential parts of a campaign to introduce tap payments to Rwanda. This initiative could revolutionize the financial landscape, especially where traditional banking services are limited.
Beyond the professional world, the people I worked with were a surprising highlight of my internship. The camaraderie, mentorship, and shared pursuit of excellence created an environment where I learned extensively and felt a strong sense of belonging. Another layer to this journey were moments like attending conferences like the Inclusive Fintech Forum. These gatherings provided unique perspectives, letting me see the blend of ideas, innovation, and shared determination driving global financial inclusion.
Of course, challenges were part of the journey. Initially, I felt underused, but addressing this with my supervisor led to a more engaging experience, aligning my tasks with my skills and ambitions. This not only improved my ability to communicate professionally but also highlighted the importance of open conversations in overcoming obstacles.
Additionally, I was fortunate to receive the Vanasse Wilbert International Experience Internship Award, designed for students engaging in international internships focused on community development in developing countries. This award held special significance as my internships were unpaid. The financial support I received covered vital expenses like travel, insurance, and medication, significantly reducing my burden and allowing me to fully dive into the internship. Without this award, I would have likely needed to work over the summer, missing out on this incredible experience and the chance to spend a summer back home for the first time in years.
In conclusion, my internship journey has been a blend of exploration, innovation, and collaboration. As I reflect on the interplay between theory and real-world application, the evolution of ideas, and the potential of financial technology, I find myself on the cusp of a transformed academic path. The practical experience, invaluable guidance, and impactful projects I've been a part of have not only deepened my understanding of economics but have also ignited a passionate commitment to contribute effectively to the dynamic landscape of global development and financial inclusion.
