Wendy Koch is in Nicaragua these days helping launch the new MEDA Trust website. Wendy took a minute from her MEDA Trust work to answer some brief questions and give us an inside glimpse into Nicaragua and the lives of clients...

What are you doing with your days?
My first week was busy. I tagged along with visiting MEDA member Conrad Brenneman who was here to help us with an internal audit. We visited urban and rural clients in Managua and Leon. Conrad interviewed them with the help of a translator, while I snapped photos and took notes for client stories. I will continue to go with credit officers when they visit clients one or two days per week.

What are the challenges you see throughout your day?
The lack of infrastructure is the main challenge. We are unable to contact the clients in advance to make sure they are at their place of business. As a result, we miss a number of them. In the rural areas, the roads are very rough, so of course it takes longer to get places.

What is your impression of the clients?
Visiting the clients is a wonderful experience! It is great to see them in their homes or places of business, to hear their stories and their plans for the future. My impression of most of the clients is that they are hard-working and very proud of their businesses. One couple wanted us to return to see their farming operation (we originally visited them in their home which was about 15 km away). They pointed to my camera, wanting me to take photos - they were obviously very proud of their operation!

I was particularly impressed with a young woman named Fatima who took over her father's belt making business. She has had three loans with MiCredito which have been used to buy sewing machines and other equipment. Her business has grown and she has been able to hire more people. She hopes to eventually create a recognizable brand that will compete with belts from China (her belts are hand-crafted, while China's are factory- made).

What has inspired you about these people?
I'm always impressed when people do good things with what they have, even if it isn't a lot.

What does a microfinance institution look like compared to North American standards?
I have visited the MiCredito office in Managua and Leon. They are fairly modern looking and clean but extremely small. There is only enough seats in the waiting room for about 8-10 clients.

Describe the technology in their office as compared to a N.A. office.
The MFI director and customer service rep have computers and the customer service rep uses a software program that was developed by a former MEDA employee. They do not do electronic filing. They have the basics - phone, fax and small copier. The office is so small that there is no need for networks and fancy phone systems!

How is this trip inspiring you personally?
I'm impressed with Nicaraguan hospitality and warmth. People have been very welcoming and helpful to me.