Kiva Fellows have a unique opportunity to witness the realities of microfinance firsthand by working directly with Kiva field partners, or supporting Kiva’s newest initiative (Kiva Zip), for a minimum of 16 weeks. A limited number of shorter 12-week placements may be available during the summer class for currently enrolled graduate students. The Kiva Fellowship is designed to increase Kiva's global impact, offer participants a unique insider experience into the microfinance industry, and provide a career opportunity of a lifetime. The position is volunteer-based, and all fellows receive a week of in-depth training at Kiva’s headquarters, plus ongoing access to Kiva’s network of staff and former fellows.
Desired Skills/Experience:
- Overseas experience, preferably in developing countries (not required for placements within the United States)
- High degree of flexibility, self-motivation and problem solving abilities
- Ability to adapt to new cultures and be flexible in new, challenging environments
- Background in finance, consulting, international development, business/social enterprise, social science, media production, marketing/communications, economic development, urban studies
- Familiarity and comfort with various web applications and technology
- Dedication to working in the field
- High degree of self-motivation and ability to work independently
- Minimum 4-month commitment (3-month commitment for select summer positions)
- Ability and commitment to fund the experience
- Enthusiasm for Kiva!
Fluency or advanced communication ability in
Arabic, French, Khmer, Mongolian, Pashto, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swahili, Tagalog/Cebuano, Turkish, Urdu, and
Vietnamese are highly preferred or required for many positions. English-only speakers are encouraged to apply to our diverse Anglophone portfolio.
Where Fellows Serve
Kiva currently has active partnerships with over 200 field partners in over 70 countries, including the United States. Fellowship placements may occur at any of these locations, but availability is dependent upon partner need and the ability of a fellow to successfully complete assigned tasks. As such, individuals that express a high degree of geographic flexibility are more likely to be selected for a placement.
How to Apply
The deadline for the 24th Class of Kiva Fellows is
January 26, 2014. Fellows must attend a one-week training in San Francisco from May 19-23, 2014, and deploy into the field within two weeks of training.
To apply, visit
www.kiva.org/fellows/apply. For more information on the application process, and to see information on upcoming application deadlines and training schedules visit our website,
www.kiva.org/fellows.