Maria is an economist with experience in evidence-based research in East and Southern African markets. Prior to joining the ACF, she held the position of economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development and was more recently a senior research manager at the Centre for Affordable Housing Finance in Africa. Maria has led projects in areas of industrial development, regional integration, and inclusive finance.

She holds a Bachelor of Commerce Honour’s degree in Economics from the University of Johannesburg and a Master of Commerce degree from the University of the Witwatersrand.