Charity Karanja

Title: Public Finance Attorney
Firm: Butler Snow LLP
Age: 32

Born and raised in Kenya, Charity Karanja experienced firsthand the challenges that come with inadequate infrastructure and limited access to financial resources in a rapidly growing population.

During an internship with Equity Group Holdings Ltd. for high performing Kenyan students, she worked with innovative financing tools including microfinance and mobile banking. Her next stop was the Charles H. Dyson School at Cornell University, followed by the University of Mississippi School of Law.

Karanja is passionate about using finance as a tool for progress, especially in underserved communities.

"Public finance isn't about just numbers or documents," said Karanja. "It's about enabling access, driving development and creating opportunities."

Seeing tangible results of transactions is thrilling, whether it's a new hospital or a long overdue infrastructure project.

At Butler Snow, she was invaluable in obtaining the first-ever rating of the Mississippi Intercept Program that will significantly reduce interest costs on municipal debt for local governments across the state.

The firm also recognizes Karanja as a "Pro Bono Champion" for her work with organizations including the Wills for Magnolia State First Responders Legal Clinic and Warhorses for Heroes, which provides equine-assisted therapy to military veterans.

In addition to being honored by organizations including the Council of Development Finance Agencies, Karanja is especially proud of the relationships she's built and the trust she's earned among colleagues and clients.

She serves as a mentor particularly for those who may not see themselves reflected in the industry, which she calls a "lasting and rewarding kind of success."

One of Karanja's long-term goals is to expand access to creative financing tools that promote sustainable development and to help shape policies or programs that empower local governments.