Team Spotlight: Kate Wilson
By Erika Amaya, Communications Associate, BID Initiative
Oct 26, 2015
Posted in General
The BID Initiative team works across three countries in the United States, Tanzania, and Zambia. This week, we learn more about Kate Wilson, BID Initiative Learning Network Advisor & Scale Up, in Seattle.
What’s your favorite indoor/outdoor activity? I have practiced yoga for 19 years, and it constantly reminds me to accept what each day brings and breathe throughout. This practice—which is a lifelong journey—helps remind me that no matter what is happening in my day, how many challenges we face that need to be solved, or triumphs that we achieve, that we are all people who need to be connected. I also like kickboxing though, so not sure what that one says about me!!!
What is one of your favorite quotes? “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson. I believe that our work in the BID Initiative realizes this. We must all be trailblazers in challenging the development status quo and always remember that we are here to serve the countries—not our own interests.
What was the last experience that made you a stronger person? I have twin boys name Jac and Ewan. At two months of age, Jac was diagnosed with chronic hydrocephalus and has undergone three brain surgeries to date with many more likely to come. I find that his wisdom and courage through each of these has inspired me to be a stronger person and to accept what life has in store.
What do you like most about your job? Some people get to dream about changing the world… We actually get to do it.
What is your proudest accomplishment? Personally—my marriage of ten years to my wonderful husband, Andy Carothers, and the happiness of my children.
Professionally—this is a tie for me between designing (employee nine) and launching Xbox Live in Europe and taking the BID Initiative from a concept to a funded reality.