Empowering Global Impact: Najada Kumbuli's New Role at Visa Foundation
In an exciting development, the Visa Foundation Board has appointed Najada Kumbuli as the new President of Visa Foundation, a global leader in digital payments. This appointment is a significant step towards enhancing the foundation's impact investing and grantmaking initiatives.
With over 15 years of expertise in investment strategy and impact evaluation, Kumbuli brings a wealth of knowledge to her new role. Her leadership and experience in global philanthropic programs make her an ideal fit for this position. Prior to joining Visa Foundation, Kumbuli served as the Investment Director at Calvert Impact Capital, a renowned global impact investment firm.
But here's where it gets interesting: Kumbuli has already made a significant impact at Visa Foundation. Since 2020, she has been the head of investments, shaping the foundation's endowment investment strategy. To date, Visa Foundation has committed an impressive $350 million to over 150 global partners, supporting an incredible 12 million small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and creating 14 million jobs across more than 100 markets. These numbers speak volumes about the foundation's commitment to making a difference.
"I am deeply honored to take on this role," Kumbuli said. "Witnessing the power of grants and investments firsthand has been an incredible experience. I am thrilled to continue my journey with Visa Foundation and empower our partners to create lasting, positive change."
Kelly Mahon Tullier, Chair of Visa Foundation and Vice Chair, Chief People and Corporate Affairs Officer at Visa, praised Kumbuli's leadership. "Najada's collaboration with the Investment Committee has been instrumental in deploying capital to grantees and investees worldwide. Her work has impacted over 10 million SMBs, and we are confident she will continue driving economic mobility for everyone, everywhere."
Visa Foundation's mission is clear: to support inclusive economies where individuals, businesses, and communities can thrive. Through strategic grantmaking and investing, the foundation prioritizes the resilience and growth of micro and small businesses globally. Additionally, it extends its support to broader community needs and disaster response efforts during times of crisis.
And this is the part most people miss: Visa Foundation is registered in the U.S. as a 501(c)3 entity, emphasizing its commitment to making a positive impact on a global scale. With Kumbuli at the helm, the foundation is poised to make even greater strides in its mission.
So, what do you think? Is Visa Foundation's focus on supporting small businesses and communities a step in the right direction? Do you believe that impact investing can truly make a difference in creating a more inclusive world? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
