SKIC’s project manager for SKImfi-Chile, Melanie O., discusses her work with SKI Charities and the path that led her to a passion for woman and child development.
SKImfi Chile project manager, Melanie O.
In your own words, what is your role in SKI charities?
My first encounter with SKI Charities was a trip to Lebu I did to get to know the project. The inspiring stories of the women I met there and the commitment of the local staff strenghtened my desire to be part of the project. I did an evaluation of the current situation, proposed measures for improvement and was happy to have the opportunity to set them in place. I would call myself a counselor on project management and strategy.
How have you seen microfinance improve women’s lives?
Some of the women shared incredible stories with me on how the project has changed their life. The one I liked most was one women’s story about freeing herself from fear and shyness by joining the project. Unfortunately she had faced violence by men in her past and was afraid of opening up and seeking opportunities in a male-dominated economic landscape. The ladies-only space of the project gave her the confidence to try it out. Now she is a successful business woman, freeing herself more and more from the restraints of her past.
What path brought you to this work?
I was always interested in politics and social issues. I worked for an NGO in Austria, advocating for policy change in development cooperation and international politics. Our work aimed for more social justice. I came across a lot of issues that hindered sustainable development and the realization of a better, more just world. The two biggest issues in my opininon are the inequality of women and men, and women’s lack of education. SKImfi’s concept to strenghten women by making them economically indepent and support their personal development and business knowledge fits perfectly with my vision of best practice.
Where do you find common ground with the women with whom your work?
All of them are women who somehow felt – despite difficult personal stories full of failure and difficult experiences – the need to change their life for the better. Not only did they feel the need, but they also trusted their own power to be able to do so. Because what SKI Charities does is help them to help themselves. It empowers. It doesnt give away money; it is not a charity project. It is a help for those who believe that they can realize dreams by wanting it and working hard for it. Those women are strong women. Even though their and my story differ in significant ways (I hold many privileges as a European woman), I am tempted to consider myself a strong woman too. And I am proud of sharing this common ground with the extraordinary women I work with.
Why are empowerment efforts like SKImfi essential?
Microfinance projects have brought a lot of advantages to vulnerable groups globally. The empowerment effort and focus of SKIMFI not only empowers in an economic way but it also fosters and supports personal growth. A lot of dimensions of their lives are influenced by the decision to become independent business women. And they are role models for their children, friends and communities. SKImfi does not only change the womens lives, it changes society for the better. There is nothing more important.
