Leena Im

Professional Background

Leena Im has an extensive and diverse professional background focused on public policy, financial inclusion, and social equity. Her work experience encompasses significant roles at prestigious organizations, including Facebook and the World Economic Forum. Leena is recognized for her commitment to improving public policy frameworks that influence not just businesses but also communities on a global scale.

One of her notable positions was at Facebook, where she contributed to the Global Public Policy team. In this capacity, she was involved in crafting policies that addressed the complex intersection of technology and society, making a positive impact in the way digital platforms engage with users worldwide. This role allowed her to combine her passion for technology with her knowledge of public policy to drive meaningful change.

Prior to her time at Facebook, Leena was a member of the Global Future Council at the World Economic Forum. Here, she collaborated with fellow experts in shaping the future of industries and improving global governance. Her insights into future trends and public policy were invaluable in fostering discussions around sustainable economic practices and equitable public policies.

Leena also served at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) within the Payments Markets division. This experience deepened her expertise in financial regulation and consumer protection, particularly in the evolving landscape of digital payments and accessibility for all individuals. She advocated for policies and practices that supported fair access to financial products, aligning with her overarching commitment to financial inclusion.

Her journey into public service began as a Fulbright Scholar at the Fulbright Commission, where she engaged in cultural exchange and research initiatives that spanned various sectors. Following this, she worked at Earn, Inc. on Financial Inclusion and Savings Products, demonstrating her ability to design and implement programs that directly assist underserved populations in achieving their financial goals.

In addition to her work in financial services and technology, Leena has an extensive background in policy advisory roles. At the Ford Foundation, she acted as a Policy Advisor, contributing to strategic initiatives for social justice and economic empowerment. She also served as an Environmental Policy Advisor for Sonoma County, where she helped shape policies that addressed environmental challenges while promoting sustainable community practices.

Early in her career, Leena made her mark as a Special Education Teacher with Teach For America, where she embraced the challenge of enhancing educational opportunities for all students, particularly those with unique learning needs. This foundational experience fueled her passion for policy work that benefits disadvantaged groups and underscores her belief in the power of education as a catalyst for change.

Education and Achievements

Leena's academic journey is equally impressive, having studied both her Master of Public Policy (MPP) and Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) at the prestigious University of California, Berkeley. Her educational background equipped her with critical analytical skills and a solid understanding of public governance, enabling her to make impactful contributions to the field. At Berkeley, she engaged deeply with complex policy issues, developing a versatile skill set that bridges theory and practice.

Throughout her career, Leena has been recognized for her outstanding work and commitment to social progress. Her experiences as a Fulbright Scholar and roles within influential organizations showcase her leadership and dedication to fostering inclusivity and equity in various sectors.

Achievements

• Global Public Policy at Facebook: Played a pivotal role in shaping meaningful public policies related to technology and user engagement on a global scale.
• Star Contributor at World Economic Forum: Collaborated on projects that aimed to forecast and influence future public policy frameworks worldwide.
• Policy Expertise at CFPB: Contributed to regulatory efforts in financial markets that prioritized consumer protection and equitable access to financial services.
• Fulbright Scholar: Represented the United States in international cultural exchange, showcasing commitment to cross-border collaboration and scholarly pursuits in public policy.
• Impactful Work at Earn, Inc.: Developed financial inclusion initiatives that focused on creating accessible savings products for low-income populations.
• Policy Advisor Impact: Influenced strategic initiatives at the Ford Foundation aimed at social justice, along with environmental policy work at Sonoma County, contributing to sustainable local governance.
• Dedication to Education: Early career experiences as a Special Education Teacher laid the groundwork for her passion for social equity, demonstrating her commitment to improving educational opportunities for all learners.

Leena Im is a distinguished figure in the fields of public policy and financial inclusion, leveraging her rich educational background and practical experiences to advocate for the underserved. With her combination of expertise, dedication, and commitment to social equity, she continues to inspire others in her field.