Hello! Can you please briefly introduce yourself?

Hello, I am Anita Sanmartin from Ecuador. I earned my bachelor's degree from the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador and pursued a Master’s degree in development economics at the University of Sussex in the UK. My career as a Development Economist has enabled me to provide evidence-based policy recommendations, conduct research, and offer capacity building in various sectors such as the public sector, consultancy, and academia. My focus has been on agriculture, social and economic inclusion, public finance, and Sustainable Development Goals. Currently, I am an Overseas Development Institute (ODI) Fellow based in Sierra Leone. I am working as an Economist for the Office of the Minister at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, providing policy and data analysis for decision-making processes.

Can you describe the Global Leadership Program and what motivated you to apply for it?

The G20 Global Leadership Program is a unique initiative that brings together experienced professionals and stakeholders from diverse sectors with a shared dedication to the G20 development goals. The program launched after Korea hosted the G20 Leaders Summit in 2010 and is organized by KDI, a top-notch think tank in Korea known for its excellence in education and research. My motivation to participate in the program stems from a combination of factors. During my master's degree, I had the opportunity to connect with fellow scholars from South Korea who introduced me to the country's vibrant culture and the existence of KDI School. Since then, I've been closely following KDI's remarkable work, its contribution to global leadership education, the expertise of its professors, and its significant position in the research field related to development matters. I considered the G20 Global Leadership Program as the perfect opportunity to elevate my career on a different scale. I was eager to gain insights into Korean economic growth history, understand the development of critical economic sectors, and witness firsthand the modernization of Korean cities and society.

Can you tell us about your experience in the program, some impressions, or takeaways?

This year's program had a blended structure, combining online lectures and immersive field study in South Korea. This experience has given me a diverse range of skills and valuable insights. The lectures on Green Development, Resilient Growth, and Women-led Development deepened my understanding of theory and sharpened my analytical and strategic thinking. Visiting institutions like the Green Climate Fund and the Export-Import Bank of Korea gave me practical insights into economic strategies and environmental sustainability. Beyond the academic and professional insights gained, the program facilitated an immersive experience into the rich culture of South Korea. We visited iconic places such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, the DMZ, the Hangang River, and the vibrant Gangnam district. We also explored smart cities like Sejong and Incheon and enjoyed their delightful culinary heritage. Overall, it was an amazing experience.

The Global Leadership Program often involves international collaboration. Can you share some insights on the cultural and global perspectives you gained through the program?

The Program has played a significant role in promoting international collaboration. As it was designed in a unique way that prioritized group work on three main topics: the economy, digital transformation, and the environment, I had the opportunity to engage with a diverse group of 35 individuals from over 20 countries. This collaborative structure enabled us to bring together a diverse range of perspectives and expertise, which is crucial in tackling current challenges. Throughout this task, we engaged in learning, reflecting, and analyzing key takeaways, while making insightful comparisons with our respective home country experiences. The program equipped me with a nuanced understanding of South Korean culture, which I intend to apply in supporting the implementation of the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between South Korea and Sierra Leone. I am particularly excited about contributing to the flagship program in Sierra Leone, Feed Salone. The cultural insights gained from South Korea will be advantageous in navigating and fostering effective collaboration between these two nations. And my immediate goal is to promote the program through my networks and encourage applicants from countries like Ecuador and Sierra Leone. I aim to facilitate the application of more ODI fellows, which will foster an even more diverse and inclusive program.

Looking back, what was the most valuable aspect of your participation in the Global Leadership Program at KDI School and how did it contribute to your personal and professional growth as a global leader?

The most valuable aspect was the opportunity for collaboration with professionals who shared a dedicated commitment to advancing G20 development goals. In a world grappling with geopolitical tensions, the need for spaces like this, fostering open dialogue and discussion, becomes increasingly critical. The program's emphasis on diversity within the group was a key facilitator, opening doors to new friendships, collaborations, and partnerships. Engaging with a network of experienced individuals, representing a spectrum of backgrounds from Latin America to diverse regions such as Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania significantly enhanced my understanding of complex global leadership challenges. Additionally, it created a dynamic learning environment that challenged me to understand the complexities from other perspectives and motivated me to work towards a more informed and interconnected approach.

Can you share any advice or insights for prospective participants interested in joining the Global Leadership Program at KDI School?

The Program offers a unique opportunity for academic excellence, an immersive cultural experience in South Korea, and collaborative problem-solving. Learning from renowned academics, working on group projects related to critical issues, and participating in insightful field visits provide a multifaceted learning experience. I encourage anyone considering applying to go for it - you won't find another program quite like this. Thank you, KDI School, for the transformative experience!