Creating Opportunity Where Others See Risk: Leadership, Community Investment, and Economic Opportunity with Saurabh Narain

In this episode of Expressions of Leadership, host Michele Kawamoto Perry speaks with Saurabh Narain, President and CEO of the National Community Investment Fund (NCIF), to explore his journey from a successful career in global banking to leading an organization dedicated to strengthening underserved communities through innovative finance. Saurabh shares the values that shaped him, the pivotal lessons he learned during the Asian financial crisis, and why he believes capitalism and social impact can work hand in hand. Together, they discuss the critical role of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), how NCIF has deployed more than $550 million to create jobs, housing, and economic opportunity, and why leaders must learn to see potential where others see limitations. Saurabh also shares insights on building mission-driven teams, balancing financial discipline with compassion, his vision for the future of community investment, and the surprising reason he recently started taking singing lessons. Learn more about NCIF at www.ncif.org. Connect with Saurabh Narain at https://www.linkedin.com/in/saurabhnarain/ Don't miss an episode! Be sure to click on the follow and subscribe buttons. Follow Expressions of Leadership on YouTube and Instagram @ExpressionsOfLeadership. You can also catch the show on Radio Evolve at www.radio-evolve.rocks every Saturday and Sunday at noon PT. Discover more about host Michele Kawamoto Perry and The Forward Project's expertise in culture transformation and leadership development at www.theforwardproject.co.