Nelly Ramírez-Moncada
Nelly Ramírez Moncada is a seasoned innovation and development strategist with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of inclusive finance, climate resilience, gender equity, and digital innovation. Currently serving as Senior Innovation and Ecosystem Architect at BFA Global and Co-Lead of the CIFAR Alliance Secretariat, she drives cross-sector initiatives that leverage data and technology to build financial health and climate adaptation strategies across Latin America, Africa, and emerging markets. Nelly is widely recognized for her ability to design and lead complex, multi-country programs that engage finance ministries, development institutions, and private sector actors in transformative, inclusive change.
With a PhD in Public Management and advanced degrees in Political Science, Law, Diplomacy, and International Relations, Nelly brings academic rigor and strategic insight to every role. Her work has spanned leadership roles at Fundación Capital, UNAM, and Afi Escuela de Finanzas, with a strong focus on digital financial inclusion, women’s economic empowerment, and sustainable development. She has helped scale digital tools to over 1.2 million underserved individuals—80% of whom are women—while supporting systemic shifts in how financial services reach marginalized communities.
Beyond her organizational leadership, Nelly contributes as a mentor for startups at MassChallenge Mexico and Irrazonable LATAM, and as an advisor on high-profile global platforms such as The Earthshot Prize. She is a regular columnist for El Financiero, where she writes on innovation, climate, and capital, and is the author of the #ChangeforGood bi-weekly newsletter. Originally from Nicaragua and Mexico, she currently resides in Washington, D.C., and continues to advocate for equitable, data-driven solutions that create lasting impact.
• Many
• Universidad Anahuac Mexico Norte
• Universidad de Salamanca
• Colors for Good
• Unreasonable Mexico
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a deep dedication to this field, which began when I started working at the age of 17. Growing up in Nicaragua, I witnessed firsthand how vulnerable communities are impacted by systemic challenges, and that experience shaped my lifelong commitment to driving inclusive, meaningful change through my work.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from my mentor, Jacques Rogozinski. His guidance, insight, and belief in my potential played a pivotal role in shaping my career. I owe much of my professional growth and success to his mentorship.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is simple: you can make a difference, no matter your age. I began my journey in this space as a teenager and quickly saw the impact I could have. With dedication and vision, I was able to help grow our team from 12 to 23 people in a short time—and that’s just the beginning.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field is gaining the visibility needed to effectively support vulnerable countries facing the devastating impacts of disasters. These challenges are global, and raising awareness is crucial to mobilize meaningful action. Through my blog, Change for Good, which now has over 800 subscribers, I aim to amplify these issues and share solutions. My goal is to grow that audience into the millions to drive even greater impact.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me both personally and professionally are perseverance, authenticity, and a strong work ethic. I've committed my life to this work—studying in Mexico and Spain, and continuously expanding my knowledge through courses in the United States—so I can make a meaningful impact globally. Staying the course, even when it’s hard, has allowed me to serve communities around the world with purpose and resilience.