Rebecca is an Operations Analyst at the IFC.
Rebecca Kachmar, MPA
Growing up far from my country of origin, Lebanon, I often wondered why. The straightforward answer was that my parents left the country due to civil war and conflict. But as I grew older, I began to understand the inner layers and complexities that have continuously affected the state of the country – from rampant corruption to public administration failures, to regional tensions and foreign policy dictating the day-to-day (and long-term prospects) of its citizens. All of which have led to a Lebanese diaspora that is today far greater than its internal population.
After completing my Bachelor of Commerce, I worked in marketing for a couple of years, but I always knew I had a deeper interest in the international development arena. I aimed to further my understanding of the political and macroeconomic effects on countries and how efficient governance and public policy can help tackle both internal and external pressures. Therefore, I decided to return to Lebanon to intern at UNESCO for a few months – this experience multiplied my curiosity and confirmed my interest in a career path related to these topics.
Following this, I had the opportunity to join the OECD as a Consultant, analyzing public communication strategies and media ecosystems within the MENA region to promote open government principles. Leveraging those experiences, I felt that I still lacked the technical skills and intricate knowledge to excel in this field. That's when I decided to pursue a master’s degree, and the MPA at the LSE seemed like the perfect option – my expectations were far exceeded.
The SPP provides an intellectually stimulating and enriching environment; you are constantly surrounded by fascinating people, each holding a unique perspective on the public policy sphere. From the professors, who offer a practical lens filled with real-life experiences, to students who bring a fresh and diverse take on what the future of public administration should look like. Being in a city as vibrant and multicultural as London was the cherry on top. Graduating from the LSE, I feel fortunate to have absorbed all these perspectives and integrated them into my own lens in my day-to-day work and beyond.
In my penultimate year of the MPA, I was selected for the Global Internship Program of the IFC, a member of the World Bank Group focused on private sector development. I joined the Country Management Unit in the Rabat Office, and integrating well with the team, I was asked to come back upon my graduation to help prepare and attend the IMF and WBG Annual Meetings held in Marrakech. I have now been promoted to Operations Analyst, supporting the country office in its daily operations and business development efforts to foster impactful change in Morocco.
I am grateful to the LSE for helping me get there, and I am excited to see what awaits all the brilliant minds of my fellow graduates and future alumni.
Rebecca is happy to connect via LinkedIn.