Anna Jen joined the NP team yesterday. In what has become a tradition, we asked Anna a few questions about herself.
What will you be doing at NP?
At NP, I’ll be doing a variety of tasks to support our partners and staff. This includes staying on top of Outcome Tracker [our IDA database] to troubleshoot issues that partners have with the program, IT activities such as keeping computers and machines running properly in the office, and helping out with advocacy days at the Capitol.
What area of expertise and interest do you have?
I’m still sharpening my skills, but I have solid experience in small business development, marketing, education, and social enterprise. I am passionate about sustainable development, specifically using business as development – whether it is helping people (both in the U.S. and around the world) build assets through savings programs, increasing their employability through job training, or giving them an opportunity to start a small business and increase their income through technical assistance and microfinance.
What does opportunity mean to you?
That everyone – regardless of their race, background, family situation, socio-economic status, disability, etc. – has access to the resources necessary to make a better life for themselves, their families, and their communities.
What difference can quality, affordable housing and asset building make for individuals and communities?
Quality, affordable housing makes a huge difference in people’s lives by giving them access to a place to call home where they can be healthy and safe without having to worry about their roof falling apart or how they will be able to afford rent and put food on the table at the same time. Asset building allows people to stretch their money further, pay off debt, and plan for the future.
Do you have a favorite quote?
“If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.” – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
This quote has motivated me since high school to dream big and work hard to accomplish my personal and professional goals.
Choose one author, living or dead, that you’d like to have dinner with.
I would love to have dinner with Maya Angelou. She was a fantastic author and influential advocate. It would be so interesting to just sit there and listen to stories about her life and learn as much as I could from her.