A Change in Journey Demands . . .

A change in journey demands . . . a change in blogs: becaorg.blogspot.com.

The Journey Changes

I mentioned in my last blog entry that I am working on a new project, but I wasn't quite ready to share.

I am ready to share.

Preamble:

While working here in Nicaragua -- yes, I am still here! -- I came across a group of young people who wanted to learn about computers, but had no money.

When I investigated, I found that a three month computer course was cheap -- about $75 USD.

Kiva.org crossed my mind. (Kiva allows people to sponsor micro-entrepreners via their website.) Why not kiva-ize education?

In this manner, www.beca.org was hatched.



It is still WAY TOO early to get excited. But the first group of students (above - your loyal correspondent in the center), graduated in April with flying colours (below - teacher Irma in the center).




The idea is to partner with local technical schools who offer administrative services, in exchange for receiving students. Potentially, this will keep administrative costs low. In the first pilot of BECA.org (January - July, 2008), 47 students received "scholarships" to study computers, dress-making, business cashier, etc.

Pilot #2 is now underway.

I hope you continue to follow along.

RIP: Microfinance and Me

It's official.

I've made the decision to step away from Microfinance and focus on something different.

My goal -- since day 1 -- was to find some way to "give back." My journey into the world of Microfinance has been interesting, educational, adventurous and . . . frustrating.

The question that I found myself asking over and over: "How can I make a meaningful difference in Microcredit?" I couldn't come up with anything tangible or substantive.

I have faced two major obstacles:
#1) My spanish has not been good enough.
#2) The institutions I have spent time with have not been very open with me.

Moreover, and perhaps more importantly, I was not thrilled about the impact Microfinance was making.

I still believe Microfinance institutions have a role to play in development. However, I am not going to be involved -- at least not directly.

So now what? Well, I have come up with something . . . but I'm not ready to tell you just yet.

Sidetracked from Microfinance

A personal journey AWAY from the world of Microfinance?

This is the situation I am finding myself at the present time. As of this date (1-29-08), I have spent about 8 months with two different Microcredit institutions in two different countries (Ecuador, and now, Nicaragua).

I acknowledge that my experience has been limited to two organizations in Latin America, but, frankly speaking, I have not seen ANY evidence that Microfinance effectively combats poverty.

And this was my initial interest . . . to give back.

Without question, the extension of Microcredit does appear to help some. Generally speaking, these are people above (and, occasionally "at") the poverty line. Usually they have some form of collateral.

I also see where the liberal extension of Microcredit can be harmful to some -- kind of like credit cards, in the so-called "developed world."

I have not completely dismissed Microfinance.

However, I report to you that I remain unconvinced.

Well, What about Microfinance in Masaya, Nicaragua?

I have spent my blog posts ignoring Microfinance, for the most part.

I realized this morning that this is a bit odd, especially considering that my diary is entitled "A Personal Journey into the World of Microfinance."

Morever, I am here in Nicaragua to work in a Microfinance institution ("Alternativa"): to gain more exposure, to gain more experience, to (hopefully) gain more insights into the ins and outs of Microfinance in the "developing" world.

Alternativa is a relatively small "Microfinanciera." (The picture above gives you a little idea.)

I have been evaluating the work processes within the institution and interviewing staff members with the objective of making suggestions to streamline various administrative procedures. I am about half-way through the project. (I am scheduled to leave 9 February 2008).

I will only say this: it hasn't been easy.

More "Folksy" Charm

I felt bad taking this picture . . . but I just couldn't resist.

Yes, above is Granada's version of a hearse. A procession of about 50 people, on foot, followed the carriage as it made its way through town to the cemetery.

The untold beauty of tradition.

Often, living in this area is like stepping back in time.

Masaya - Not All Doom and Gloom!

In no real order: "taxista", festival time, Masayan house party, "cow tongue."

I'm sure you can figure out which is which.