Sharmista Appaya has over fifteen years of robust experience in the intersecting worlds of data, finance, and digital development. She currently leads the World Bank's AI Business line within the Digital Development Vice Presidency, to support the creation of safe, inclusive digital infrastructures that leverage AI for meaningful responsible impact. She strongly believes in bridging divides—be they technological, economic, or social and trusts that innovation can pave the way for equitable growth.
She was previously, the Senior Financial Sector Specialist in the Finance, Competitiveness and Innovation (FCI) Global Practice, where she analyzed fintech and its application to financial inclusion. Prior to joining the World Bank, she was the Head of the Fintech Accelerator at the Bank of England in London.