To celebrate Women’s World Banking’s 45th anniversary, we are showcasing the voices of individuals from around the world who have shaped and touched Women’s World Banking journey since its inception in 1979 at the Commission on the Status of Women to today!
These are stories from across Women’s World Banking’s reach from the women we serve and our customers, to allies and women in leadership who have contributed to women’s economic empowerment and financial inclusion.
Last month, we lost Ann Rockefeller Roberts, a leader whose relentless dedication shaped movements for underrepresented communities. She was celebrated for her pivotal role in advancing Native American sovereignty and cultural preservation through the founding of the Fund of the Four Directions. Her efforts led to the relocation of the Heye Foundation collection, a critical step in establishing the National Museum of the American Indian ensuring that Native traditions and history are honored.
Ann’s lifelong advocacy began in the 1960s, financing civil rights initiatives like Mayor Charles Evers’ efforts to build a model integrated community in Mississippi. Her tenure as chairwoman of the Rockefeller Family Fund exemplified her commitment to philanthropy.
“There are cultures and people in our society who have been marginalized, who have been made invisible, so that was where I was drawn to go.”
Ann’s impact extended to Women’s World Banking, where she played an instrumental role in our beginnings. As our first funder, she provided foundational support and essential office space. Her commitment to uplifting women mirrored her broader dedication to equality and inclusion.
Ann Rockefeller Roberts’ legacy endures, continuing to shape efforts toward equity and inclusion for generations to come. At Women’s World Banking, we remain deeply grateful for the critical support she provided in our formative years, enabling us to pursue our mission of empowering women globally. Her vision and dedication serve as a lasting inspiration, driving our work forward.
Women’s World Banking is dedicated to economic empowerment through financial inclusion for the nearly one billion women in the world with no or limited access to formal financial services. Using our sophisticated market and consumer research, we turn insights into real action to design and advocate for policy engagement, digital financial solutions, workplace leadership programs, and gender lens investing.
As part of our current strategy, we’ve helped provide 82 million women in emerging markets – targeting 100 million by 2027 – access and use of financial products and services that are transforming women’s lives, households, businesses and communities, and driving inclusive growth globally.
Help us reach the nearly billion women still excluded from the formal financial system. Donate now.
