Addressing students from the Strathmore Institute of Mathematical Sciences pursuing Financial Economics, Financial Engineering, and Actuarial Science, Mr. Matellanes challenged the prevailing notion that financial success and social good are mutually exclusive, illustrating how both can coexist to drive meaningful change.
Mr. Matellanes tackled the widespread belief that achieving financial stability is necessary before contributing positively to society. “Investments can operate on both financial returns and social returns,” he emphasized, explaining how impact investing enables investors to pursue profit while addressing critical social issues.
Highlighting the unique benefits of impact investing, Mr. Matellanes pointed out its role in channeling much-needed capital into innovative solutions developed by entrepreneurs and social enterprises. He argued that impact investing fosters equality and empowers underserved communities by backing ventures that aim for lasting change. Unlike non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that often focus on financial sustainability, or governmental institutions that prioritize social outcomes, impact investing, he explained, bridges this gap by balancing profit with purpose.
During his lecture, Mr. Matellanes shed light on Africa’s significant agricultural potential, revealing a striking statistic. 60% of the world’s viable agricultural land is in Africa, yet the continent continues to grapple with food insecurity. He urged students to recognize the immense opportunities this presents. “By harnessing Africa’s rich agricultural resources, the continent could enhance food security and play a pivotal role in global sustainability,” urged Mr. Matellanes.
Mr. Matellanes also underscored the importance of adopting green energy and sustainable practices, such as renewable energy sources, recycling, and greenhouse technologies. “These strategies are essential not only for addressing global challenges but also for ensuring a better future for the generations to come,” he noted.
Challenging the audience to think about their legacy, Mr. Matellanes posed a pivotal question. “What kind of country, continent, or world do we want to pass on to the next generation?” He stressed that the power to shape a better future lies with individuals and their decisions today. “Africa is the future,” he declared passionately, emphasizing the crucial role of the younger generation in shaping the continent’s destiny. He called for investments in people with groundbreaking ideas, urging the students to take up the mantle of change.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Matellanes left the audience with an empowering message that everyone has the capacity to make a difference. He emphasized that the choices made today will determine the trajectory of future generations, and urged students to take action toward a sustainable and prosperous Africa. His words served as a reminder that impact investing is not just about financial returns; it’s about building a future where profit and purpose are intertwined.
Article written by Barbara Omondi
