For over 50 years, Opportunity International has been shining a light on the pathway out of poverty through financial inclusion. We are proud to be part of a movement that has helped millions of people find the strength, hope, and resilience needed to achieve their dreams. But our journey is far from over. Today, we … Read more

Multi-dimensional poverty is a harsh reality affecting millions of families worldwide. It refers to a state where individuals and families lack access to basic needs such as food, clean water, and safe shelter. Additionally, it encompasses issues like low self-esteem, social isolation, and a lack of economic opportunities. Without comprehensive intervention including community support and … Read more

Financial inclusion, providing access to financial services to marginalized communities, has gained significant attention in recent years. The success of financial inclusion goes beyond providing access to loans and banking services. It hinges on establishing robust relationships with local partners, who play a crucial role in ensuring sustainability.  This year, Opportunity International Canada celebrates 25 … Read more

This is the last entry in my short blog series around financial inclusion. However, the topic could be the overarching theme of my entire blog going forward. All the clients we serve face significant barriers in their efforts to find a job or start a micro-enterprise to create an income. The work we do comes … Read more

Financial inclusion is about inviting those trapped in systemic poverty to participate in the local economy. It’s about creating opportunities for people who have been marginalized in their communities. They can acquire new skills and access financial services that help unleash their potential to build a sustainable livelihood and provide for their family. Financial inclusion … Read more

Continuing this short blog series where l am exploring what financial inclusion looks like in practice in the field, journey with me to Kumasi, Ghana.  Located in central Ghana, Kumasi is the hereditary home of the Ashanti Kingdom. It is also the headquarters of Sinapi Aba Savings and Loans (SASL), one of our Implementing Partners … Read more

In this blog series, I am reflecting on the concept of inclusion as it relates to the work of Opportunity International Canada.   Our vision is a world in which all people have the opportunity to achieve a life free from poverty, with dignity and purpose. The gap between this vision and the reality for hundreds … Read more

Opportunity International Canada is a charity focused on providing sustainable solutions to global ultra-poverty through financial inclusion.  Over the next few weeks, I will reflect on our work through the filter of this concept of inclusion.  The Oxford English Dictionary defines inclusion as “the action or state of including or of being included within a … Read more

In November 2021, the university auditorium in Kumasi, Ghana, was filled with singing and dancing, resonating with the pure joy of 224 women (and one brave man) gathered for their graduation ceremony.   This was no ordinary graduation ceremony. Most of these women had never even stepped onto a university campus before, let alone had the … Read more

Digital banking is something most of us take for granted. Months can go by without the need to enter a bank branch. Making bill payments, depositing paycheques, transferring funds, and even arranging loans are all carried out online using seamless and secure digital banking apps.  Access to digital financial services is also an essential part of normal … Read more