Jacqueline Novogratz on an escape from poverty

Summary

In this powerful talk, the speaker reflects on the complex nature of poverty, using the example of Mathare Valley slums in Kenya to illustrate its multifaceted reality. Highlighting the resilience of individuals like Mama Rose and Jane, the narrative underscores how microfinance through Jamii Bora and affordable housing can empower people to rise above poverty. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of innovation in addressing systemic issues and the need to extend dignity and choice to all.

Takeaways

• 🤔 The complexity of defining poverty goes beyond just income; it involves the lack of freedom and choice.
• 🏭 Mathare Valley slums in Kenya is a harsh environment characterized by overcrowding, poverty, and social issues.
• 👩‍👧‍👦 Despite living in extreme poverty, residents like Mama Rose demonstrate resilience and resourcefulness to provide for their families.
• 💼 Economic empowerment through microfinance, as provided by Jamii Bora, can transform lives by enabling individuals to start businesses and escape poverty.
• 👗 Jane's story illustrates how even a small amount of capital can enable someone to start a business, improve their income, and change their life trajectory.
• 🏡 Affordable housing initiatives, supported by organizations like Jamii Bora, offer a path out of slum living for those trapped in poverty.
• 🌟 Personal dreams and aspirations can evolve and be redefined even in the face of adversity, leading to a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
• 🤝 Community and global connections can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, as seen in the shared excitement over Obama's inauguration.
• 🌱 Innovation and social entrepreneurship are key to addressing systemic poverty and creating sustainable solutions for the economically disadvantaged.
• 🌐 The economic crisis can be an opportunity for invention and innovation, emphasizing the need for inclusive services and products for all.

Q & A

What is the main challenge the speaker grapples with regarding poverty?

The main challenge the speaker grapples with is defining poverty, as it is not just about income but also about the lack of choice and freedom.

Where is the Mathare Valley slum located?

The Mathare Valley slum is located about three miles out of Nairobi, Kenya.

What is the living condition like in Mathare Valley?

In Mathare Valley, over half a million people live in cramped tin shacks, often with eight or ten people to a room, and the area is known for prostitution, violence, and drugs.

Who is Mama Rose and what does she do to support her family?

Mama Rose is a woman who has rented a tin shack in Mathare Valley for 32 years where she lives with her seven children. She keeps them in school by selling water from a kiosk and soap and bread from a small store.

What was Jane's initial dream and why did she have to give it up?

Jane's initial dream was to be a doctor, but she had to give it up because her mother, a single mom, couldn't afford to pay for school fees.

How did Jane's life change in 2001?

In 2001, Jane's life changed when she joined Jamii Bora, an organization that lends money to people regardless of their poverty level, allowing her to save and eventually start a tailoring business.

What does Jane do for a living now?

Jane now buys secondhand ball gowns, repurposes them with frills and ribbons, and sells them as dresses for special occasions like Sweet 16 or first Holy Communion.

What is Jamii Bora and how does it help people like Jane?

Jamii Bora is an organization that provides loans to people in poverty, allowing them to save and invest in small businesses, thus improving their economic situation.

How does Jamii Bora's housing development project benefit people like Jane?

Jamii Bora's housing development project provides low-cost housing to people like Jane, who can afford it by matching their mortgage with what they paid in rent for their shacks, thus offering a safer and more stable living environment.

What does Jane think about moving out of Mathare Valley?

Jane is eager to move out of Mathare Valley despite her challenges, as she does not fear what she hasn't already confronted and is not attached to the violence, drugs, and lack of privacy there.

How does Jane contribute to her community despite her own struggles?

Despite her struggles, Jane counsels HIV patients two days a week, offering them hope and showing them that they can still serve and heal others.