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Youthful Insights: A Young African Professional's Experience at the World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings. Ntsetselelo Dlamini, Intern, Skidmore College.

As a young African professional, immersing myself in the World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings was a remarkable and enlightening experience. My internship at Creative Investment Research in Washington DC allowed me to attend these meetings in person, providing me with invaluable insights into the global economy and a connection to my African roots.

I had the opportunity to attend several significant events focused on the African continent:

On Tuesday, 11 April 2023, I participated in the discussion on "Challenges and Opportunities in the Rollout of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement." This event emphasized the importance of collaboration among African leaders to ensure the successful implementation of this historic agreement and unlock its full potential.

On Wednesday, 12 April 2023, I attended "Political and Economic Reforms in the Extractive Sector as a Catalyst to African Development." This event addressed the pressing issue of human rights within the African Extractive Sector and underscored the need for good governance and transparency to harness the full potential of the continent's rich natural resources.

The "Southern Africa Workshop" on 12 April 2023 focused on the impact of global monetary policy tightening and the strategies Southern African governments can adopt to mitigate the negative effects of high interest rates. Finance ministers from the region emphasized the importance of regional cooperation.

I wholeheartedly recommend the World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings to any young Economics student with an interest in the global economy, particularly those with an African background. These meetings have broadened my perspective on the interconnectedness of the world economy, highlighting the far-reaching consequences of decisions made by institutions like the Federal Reserve.

Additionally, I had the honor of meeting the Central Bank Governor of Eswatini, my home country. His presence at the Southern African workshop discussing the impact of global monetary policy tightening on the region solidified the importance of these meetings for my personal and professional growth.

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