Welcome to the team, Misha! Can you share a brief overview of your background and professional experience that led you to this role at Grow Asia?
Thanks! I’ve been working for the private sector for over 12 years. During my time in the private sector, I took on public affairs, government relations, communications, and sustainability roles. In my work in sustainability, I handled projects related to nutrition, environmental sustainability, rural development, and agriculture. Before working in the private sector, I also worked in the non-profit sector. I have a Masters's degree in Social Policy and Development from the London School of Economics and a Bachelor's degree in International Studies from Pepperdine University. I look forward to bringing in my experience in the private sector and providing a new perspective to the team.
As the Head of Sustainable Supply Chains, what will be your main responsibilities and focus areas? How do you envision driving positive change and impact in this role?
I will be leading the design and implementation of 2 programs covering agri-food innovations and women’s economic empowerment in Southeast Asia, also known as GrowVentures and GrowHer, respectively. For GrowVentures, I will be leading a 3-year program called SEEDS which will help accelerate economic development in Viet Nam, Cambodia, and the Philippines through ICT solutions. I will also look after the development of the Food Innovation Hub in Viet Nam. For GrowHer, I will take on the design and implementation of national and regional programs that focus on empowering women in agriculture as decision-makers, customers, farmers, business owners to drive equitable economic growth. I think the key to driving positive change is to ensure all partners have the same vision and that we all seamlessly work together to ensure a better life for farmers across Southeast Asia.
What motivated you to join the Grow Asia team? What aspects of the organization's mission and work resonated with you the most?
The first thing I checked on the Grow Asia website was the team’s bio page, and I was impressed by their diversity and talent. I thought it would be great to work alongside them. Grow Asia’s mission is straightforward and inspiring – to promote inclusive and sustainable food systems by connecting people and organizations. Personally, there’s no greater satisfaction than connecting two parties who later thank you for the introduction. I look forward to hearing such feedback during my time here at Grow Asia.
As you embark on your first 100 days in this role, what are your top priorities?
I will spend much of the first 100 days listening and learning and getting to know the people in Grow Asia. I look forward to getting the SEEDS project off the ground as well!