Yoeung Sinoiy, 50, is a widow who sells fruits and fried bananas in Cambodia to earn a living and makes around $6 each day. She is asking for a loan of $1,000 to expand her business. Photo courtesy of Kiva.

Kiva Fellows get to see firsthand how microfinance impacts communities.

Although Kiva Fellows are not paid, the “insider” experience of working directly with microfinance institutions overseas may help people decide whether a career in microfinance or international development is right for them.

Founded by Matt and Jessica Flannery in 2005, Kiva broke new ground when it began connecting encouraging individuals to lend small sums directly to entrepreneurs in the developing world. To date, more than 40,000 borrowers in 40 countries have provided a total of about $27 million, and the popular Web site has been widely imitated.

Kiva Fellows are on-the-ground representatives who report back to the home office and also blog about their experiences on the Kiva Web site. Part of their job is to assess whether a loan has improved a borrower’s social and economic situation.

Individuals accepted in the next Kiva Fellows pool will be trained during January and will depart for foreign destinations from February 1 to 15, 2009. Those who apply by March 1 will be trained during May and will be deployed June 1 to 15.

Desirable characteristics of Kiva Fellows include overseas experience, preferably in developing countries; a high degree of flexibility, self-motivation and problem solving; excellent writing skills, familiarity and comfort with various Web applications; dedication to working in the field with a microfinance institution, the ability and commitment to fundraise for their trip, a sincere interest in microfinance, and the ability to stay for at least four months on assignment.

Kiva also likes applicants who are fluent or have an advanced understanding of French, Spanish, Russian or any other language in a country where Kiva has a presence. A background in economics, finance and/or consulting is helpful.

For more information and details on applying, see the Kiva Fellows Program page on the Kiva Web site.