We’re thrilled to welcome Maria Carvalho to our team as our new Project Manager! Maria’s dedication to sustainable development, microfinance, and gender inclusion beautifully aligns with our mission and values. Her expertise and passion will be a tremendous asset to our projects in India and Nepal, as she works alongside our partners to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the communities we support. Get to know Maria in this brief interview — learn about her vision for AEIN’s projects in India and Nepal, and discover what inspires her to make a meaningful impact in the communities we support.

Can you tell us a little about your background and what brought you to AEIN?

With a background in risk management, I spent several years working in the financial sector, where I witnessed first-hand both the challenges and the potential for positive impact. This experience sparked a deeper interest in sustainable development and inclusive finance, particularly gender inclusion. Driven by this passion, I pursued a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development Finance in Germany and was later introduced to AEIN through its inspiring initiatives. I initially joined as a volunteer Project Manager, and seeing the impact of our work up close confirmed my commitment to this path. Now, I’m excited to contribute directly to projects in India and Nepal, knowing AEIN’s mission perfectly aligns with my values and goals.

What are some key experiences or values that have shaped your approach to project management?

I believe that collaboration, adaptability, and communication are essential for effective project management. My experiences have taught me the importance of listening closely to community needs, working closely with local partners, respecting their knowledge and perspectives, and remaining flexible in changing conditions, and keeping open lines of communication with both partners and stakeholders. Balancing careful planning with respect and open cooperation helps ensure our projects are impactful, sustainable, and truly aligned with the communities’ needs.

What excites you most about this role and working with AEIN’s mission?

I’m most excited about working with local partners in India and Nepal to support meaningful, sustainable projects. AEIN’s commitment to empowering marginalised groups, with a strong focus on gender inclusion and empowerment, is inspiring, and I feel motivated knowing that my work will have a tangible impact on the lives of people facing significant challenges. I’m also eager to learn from our team as well as from our local partners and communities, and to understand their perspectives and insights, which will help me grow both personally and professionally. Working alongside such dedicated individuals, I see this role as an opportunity not only to contribute but also to continually evolve and adapt, building a deeper understanding of impactful, community-driven development.

How do you see your expertise in risk management and sustainable finance contributing to AEIN’s projects?

With several years of experience in risk management, I bring a strong foundation that can support AEIN, our partners, and projects in enhancing their risk management skills. I hope to leverage this expertise to help identify and mitigate potential challenges, ensuring our initiatives are both resilient and sustainable. Additionally, with the knowledge I’m gaining through my Masters in Sustainable Development Finance, I hope to bring fresh perspectives on resource allocation, transparency, and inclusive practices to our projects, ultimately contributing to the long-term impact and stability of our projects.

Any fun facts about yourself that might surprise the team?

I’m a new mom, which has been one of the most rewarding and challenging adventures of my life! Balancing family life with work has been a rewarding adventure. Fun fact: I’m a bit of a foodie, whether traveling or at home, and love trying out new delicacies and recipes when I have the time—one of my specialities is the Portuguese king “Bacalhau com Natas”!

If you could describe your approach to this new role in three words, what would they be?

Collaborative, adaptable and purposeful.