Maria Nowak

Economist specialised in development, Maria Nowak pursued her career in Agence Française de Dévelopment and the World Bank. She started the first micro-lending programs in West Africa , in Eastern Europe and, on a volunteer basis, in France , in the framework of the Association pour le Droit à l'Initiative Economique (Adie)

Maria is presently president of Adie International which promotes micro finance in Europe and in the Mediterranean region. She is author of < La Banquière de l'Espoir >, < On ne prête (pas) qu'aux riches > and < Espoir economique >. She is also Doctor Honoris causa of the University of Leuven and Commandeur de la Légion d'honneur .