A new model of microfinance for Africa, and beyond | Viola Llewellyn | TED Institute

Financial institutions often impose Western models of risk assessment, which are often ill-fitted for diverse global markets -- especially in Africa, a continent made up of thousands of ethnic and cultural groups and more than 2,000 languages. Fintech entrepreneur, Viola Llewellyn, is determined to properly tap into the continent’s potential for wealth. Her firm, Ovamba, combines AI and local knowledge to develop custom risk models and algorithms, designed for Africa but applicable beyond. Llewellyn’s work means previously overlooked entrepreneurs now have the opportunity to access vital capital to grow their businesses. “In digitizing our future, we will preserve the beauty of our culture and unlock the code of our best wealth traits,” she says. "Becoming global citizens gives us a seat at the table as equals.”

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[Yoga_with_Adji]

This approach isn't just about making loans; it's about investing in people and their potential. When we understand the intricacies of someone's background, traditions, and community dynamics, we can better support them in achieving their goals and building sustainable wealth.

Ultimately, by bridging the gap between finance and culture, we're not only unlocking economic opportunities but also preserving the richness and diversity of human experience. It's a win-win scenario where everyone benefits from a more inclusive and equitable financial system.

[laboheme]

This woman’s experience, expertise and affinity for Africa are clearly reflected in her deliverance.

Well done!

[tradewithmax]

What i really understand and believe is that if you have enough information about a business then you can provide better and accurate financial decisions, banks only looks at the formality of a business, microfinance are trying by getting more information through community involvement, but this is not enough, i think your idea is really deeper than both a bank and a normal microfinance.

[fuhnoah]

Does villages that you mentioned, you didn't explain to them where they are related in Cameroon.. great videos and much love from Cameroon... Go go .

[watermelonsunglop]

BRAVO! Very impressive work. Nicely done and keep at it Ms. Llewellyn!

[Saye]

Very innovative approach to helping entrepreneurs in Africa

[clementgavi]

Can there be a model that gather the understanding of the differences and conceived around the convergent?
Tribes shouldn't be essentialised.
What makes or can make the harmony of the differences?
Detect these elements and use them to conceive the model.
We must exceed our tribes to embrace our nations.
Look at Ethiopia, in the same country you have organized liberation fronts according to tribes.
What units a country in its diversity?
The models conceived to address the issues should integrate and reflect and inculcate the factors of harmony and union despite the tribes differences.

[LGseeker]

This is what every global entrepreneur should strive for. Well done, wishing you all the success 💯

[mkovekedolice]

Well this is something to me .looking to start microfinance. Thank you

[jzk]

I don't think your tribe, language, and 400 other data points matter.
All I need to know is... who you are, and how much money you have left after you've paid all your expenses for the month. Then I can figure out how much you can afford to borrow.

[davidnicky]

I like the approach but it's practicality...mmmhh...am not sure coz the model she explained is already widely used by Sacco

[Realminthebush]

No there not especially for minorities here in america. Looking for start up for projects in africa. Rental properties to rent to tourust. Also looking to get vehicle for rental to tourist. Any information Would be appreciated.

[genericfabricrefresher]

She makes me wanna start a bank in africa

[insideoutofstories]

1.2 billion people and she went only northern central Africa

[apricotcomputers]

did she actually have to do a talk with African prints...