Through the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-LKYSPP internship program, I had the privilege of joining the Fragile and Conflict-Affected Situations (FCAS) team in ADB’s Manila headquarters this summer. Housed within the Climate Change and Sustainable Development (CCSD) Department, the FCAS team operates with the core belief that every developing member country has a unique context and set of challenges. In line with this, their goal is to ensure that ADB recognizes and actively caters to these differences, allowing for a tailored approach to development. Given increasing population movements spurred by climate change, geopolitical tensions, and economic shocks, one of the team’s priority agenda is to enhance institutional knowledge on economic migration and forced displacement and, in turn, improve and better target ADB’s support to migrants and forcibly displaced communities. In support of this agenda, my internship assignment revolved around mapping and analyzing the Bank’s historical and current efforts in aiding these communities, identifying gaps, and offering recommendations to bolster ADB’s engagement in this area.
Through this internship, I gained a better understanding of the multifaceted issues surrounding economic migration and forced displacement and the importance of striking a balance between immediate relief and long-term strategies in building resilience and ensuring sustainable development amid protracted crises. My learnings, however, extended far beyond the scope of my assignment. I learned about the intricacies of how multilateral development banks operate and how their vast networks, decision-making processes, and innovative solutions shape developmental trajectories across nations.
The interpersonal connections and exchanges I had been equally impactful. Many at ADB, regardless of their position, were commendably down-to-earth and approachable. Their passion, dedication, and profound expertise constantly inspired me. My supervisor, Stephanie Kamal, was pivotal in making my brief stay worthwhile and deserves special mention. Always available for guidance, she exemplified what it means to be a mentor. Her hands-on approach and encouragement ensured that my learning curve was steep and rewarding.
Getting to know a diverse group of individuals in a city I have lived in for the past two decades was also an experience. I reveled in the shared meals, stories, and insights from colleagues from different parts of the world. Apart from ADB staff, my co-interns also became good friends, offering fresh perspectives that added value to our shared experiences, discussions, and adventures. Together, we fostered a sense of camaraderie that made my internship even more fulfilling.
Photo Credit: Asian Development BankOverall, this experience served as an opportunity for both professional and personal growth. As I complete the MPP program, I take with me not just intellectual gains but also fond memories.