Aishath Sajny currently holds the position of Policy and Research Consultant for the Ministry of Economic Development. Prior to this, she gained valuable experience as an Economist at the International Monetary Fund. Her career began as a research officer for the monetary policy section of the Maldives Monetary Authority (central bank of the Maldives), where she eventually worked in many areas of the bank, including public debt, monetary operations, and monetary policy and research. Having over a decade of experience in macroeconomics and finance, Sajny's main research interests revolve around climate-related risks to the financial sector, labour market, debt, and inclusive growth and development. She has earned a master’s degree in Applied Economics from Eastern Michigan University, USA, and a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Finance from the London School of Economics, Singapore. 

What do you do?   

As the policy and research consultant, I am responsible for providing opinion and advice on economic related issues to the ministry and conducting evidenced-based research for policy formulation and implementation.  

Tell us about your work with UNDP?  

I spearheaded the establishment of the Economic Research Center (ERC) (www.erc.trade.gov.mv ), a specialized research and data hub established by the Ministry of Economic Development, in collaboration with technical support from the UNDP. The ERC is dedicated to producing policy research backed by data, enabling informed decision-making, developing innovative tools for data utilization, and fostering open dialogues that will revolutionize policymaking in the Maldives. 

What motivates you to work in this area (digital, data, innovation etc.)  

What truly drives me is the transformative power of data to convince policy makers to make informed decisions that impact society positively. As a data-driven researcher, I find that data not only provides critical insights to research findings, but also serves as a powerful tool to support my intuitive opinions. Armed with these tools, I am confident in presenting my recommendations and solutions, bolstered by data-backed evidence. I believe that the key to making data meaningful to all lies in storytelling. By weaving relatable and understandable narratives out of complex data sets, we can reach a wider audience and inspire meaningful action that creates a lasting impact for all. 

What challenges do you face as a woman in this sector?  

Working in this sector can be a fulfilling experience, as it offers the opportunity to contribute towards a noble cause and bring about a positive impact on society. However, there are times when I encounter certain challenges while working in this sector. For instance, convincing peers to see things from one's perspective can often be an uphill task, particularly when it comes to subjects that require a change in mindset or a shift in the existing paradigm. Success in this field requires patience, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace change. Convincing peers to adopt new ideas, approaches, or techniques can be a slow and arduous process, but it is essential for ensuring the long-term success of any project or initiative. 

What would you like to say to the other women aspiring people out there? 

To all the aspiring women working in the field of economics and finance, I want to say that you have chosen a challenging yet rewarding field. Despite the gender disparity that still exists in this sector, you have the potential to break barriers and make a meaningful impact. It is important to acknowledge that you may face obstacles and bias because of your gender. However, it is essential to not let that deter you from pursuing your goals.  

Women have the power to make a significant impact in the economy. Stay focused on your goals, keep learning, and support one another along the way. With determination and perseverance, you can make a positive difference in your community and beyond by leveraging the power of data.