Viola’s job at the capital markets was incidental. She was offered a position at Capital Markets Authority (CMA) when she emerged top among participants during a university challenge in 2014.
The challenge aimed to teach the youth about capital markets and investments.
However, her interest in capital markets had been seeded during her undergraduate studies.
Viola’s job involves product development and stakeholder engagement to facilitate the financial deepening of capital markets in Kenya.
"The capital markets space is relatively broad and dynamic with innovations emerging every so often. There is quite a lot to learn."
Her role includes increasing uptake of capital products and services through partnerships with companies and associations globally.
The 28-year-old is also a member of Sandbox Review Committee, working with start-ups and financial technology firms to devise solutions that enhance inclusivity in capital markets, like those targeting SMEs and even low-income earners, ease access and increase usage of the products.
She holds a Master of Science in Development Finance from Strathmore Business School and Frankfurt School of Finance.
She was part of the team that saw on-boarding of debt-based crowdfunding platform, Pezesha, last year which allows small businesses to raise working capital from banks, microfinance, and other investors.
Viola has also been supporting the global financial innovation network as a representative member for CMA and also serving as a member of the editorial board for the Africa/Middle East Regional Committee (AMERC) of the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) that focus on regional issues relating to securities regulation.
“The capital markets space is relatively broad and dynamic with innovations emerging every so often. There is quite a lot to learn. This requires a good level of effort and initiative. The space is also relatively specialised and technical.’’
Elizabeth Kivuva
