A few weeks ago, members and supporters of the Young Ambassadors for Opportunity (YAO) gathered in Washington, D.C. at the Financial Services Roundtable for the kickoff of the D.C. chapter of YAO.

These globally-minded young professionals were there to network and to meet Betty Mutua, a regional manager at Opportunity International Kenya. Betty brought her nine years of experience in microfinance to the group, inspiring them and explaining to them how access to financial services improves the lives of her clients.

The event was organized by YAO-DC chapter chairs Emily Egan and Katherine Haley. Here, they reflect on the experience meeting Betty and their plans for the YAO-DC chapter.

What did you think of Betty Mutua? Emily: Betty was the perfect speaker to introduce YAOand http://www.opportunity.org/Opportunity[/intlink] to the attendees who came not knowing as much about microfinance. Even though she is a tough boss and businesswoman, she is also gregarious, funny, and full of love and compassion for the people that she serves. Opportunity is so lucky to employ her and we were all so fortunate to see her speak and learn more about Opportunity Kenya from such a great ambassador.

Why should you join YAO-DC? Katherine: Do you care about people living in poverty? Are you interested in empowering people in the developing world to plan for their futures? Do you support microfinance? Do you want to learn more about ways you can be part of this solution to global poverty? YAO-DC exists to bring young professionals together to learn, discuss and come up with creative fundraising opportunities to support Opportunity’s work in microfinance. Its mission is to spread the word about microfinance and how it is helping entrepreneurs in the developing world expand their businesses, provide for their families, save for the future and dream far beyond just their day-to-day survival.

What’s to come for YAO-DC? Katherine: YAO-DC will be hosting a happy hour discussion led by Andy Sprunger, a YAO-DC member who has just returned from Opportunity China. Check in with the YAO-DC Facebook group in the coming weeks for more details. Plus, on October 8-9, Opportunity International will be holding itshttp://www.opportunity.org/opportunity-international-conference/Fall Microfinance Conference[/intlink] right here in Washington, D.C. YAO members will get a special discount if they http://www.opportunity.org/opportunity-international-conference/opportunity-microfinance-conference-yao-registration/register here[/intlink].