Welcome!

In a couple of days, I will be traveling to Antananarivo, Madagascar. I will be spending 8 months working for the Première Agence de Microfinance (PAMF) Madagascar through a fellowship with the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.

I thought I’d start by answering some of the most common questions I get about my fellowship!

1. What are you going to be doing there?
   As far as I know, I’m going to be working for the Product Research and Development Department at PAMF. PAMF is a microfinance institution, so that could mean researching and developing micro-loan products. However, like with any true international development experience, things will probably change once I’m on the ground so, we’ll see!
2. Are you going with anyone else?
   I’m the only AKFC fellow going to Madagascar this year. There are 25 other brilliant fellows embarking on equally cool experiences in other countries. Some of their blogs are linked on the right!
3. Mada-where?
   Madagascar is an island in the Indian Ocean to the east of Mozambique. It is the fourth largest island in the world and has a population of ~22 million people. The island is home to a unique blend of African and Asian culture AND is the only place in the world where you can find lemurs!
4. Will there be dancing penguins and singing hippos?
   Thank you Dreamworks. I don’t think I’ve had a conversation about my fellowship that hasn’t involved a question about the movie. I will write back about the singing and dancing creatures as soon as possible.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For anybody who doesn’t recognize the animals at the top of my blog. They are the characters from movie Madagascar.   Wide-eyed and curious, like them, I am ready for my new adventure! Thanks for reading. I’m excited to share my experience with all of you.