A Landmark Achievement for Women in Trade Finance
We are delighted to announce the election of Rima Kalai, Executive Director at ATF Finance, to the ITFA Africa Regional Committee. This milestone not only recognizes Rima’s outstanding career but also marks a significant step forward for gender representation in trade finance.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Rima Kalai brings over two decades of experience in business development and trade finance, with a focus on Africa, the Middle East, and the UK. As a key player in African corporate finance, she has been instrumental in shaping commercial and structured trade finance solutions for the past 15 years.
Her academic background is equally impressive, with dual Bachelor’s degrees in Applied Sciences from McGill University and Finance from the John Molson School of Business, as well as executive studies in Brand Management and Marketing Strategies from the London Business School. This blend of technical expertise and strategic vision has positioned her as a leader in impactful financial solutions.
A Historic Moment for Women in Trade Finance
This election is particularly historic as it sees seven women : Anne-Marie Woolley, Claudia Lopes, Derryn Faure, Lamia Sayari Riabi CDCS, Ahanna Anaba, Lina Iyok, and Rima Kalai—serving together on the ITFA Africa Regional Committee. Their collective leadership brings unparalleled expertise, credibility, and vision to Africa’s trade finance agenda, reinforcing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Rima’s election is more than a personal achievement, it is a testament to the growing influence of women in finance. Her leadership will inspire countless professionals, particularly women, to pursue careers in trade finance and break through traditional barriers.
At Woman Banker, we celebrate Rima’s success and the progress it represents for women in banking and finance. Her journey is a reminder that excellence knows no gender, and we look forward to seeing the impact of her contributions in this new role.
