Although I didn’t get to meet Michaela in person, her commitment to the work we share on SGVB transpired from the first meeting.  I remember her insightful questions, and wonderful energy. May she rest in peace.  …

I first met Michaela many years ago as a much younger ADB gender specialist when she visited our Manila HQ representing EBRD for gender events, and she was so friendly and warm. It has been an absolute pleasure to work closely with her again over the past 2+ years as peers in the MDB Working Group on Gender. Michaela was always sincere, geniune and supportive. When I last spoke to her in early December, we were still planning a joint AIIB-ADB training event. Her professional commitment and drive to make a difference right until the end was nothing short of inspiring. Rest well and be at peace Michaela.  …

I will miss Michaela’s energy and passion for life and her committment to promoting awareness of vulnerable people.  I met her more than a decade ago in the MFI working group on Environmental and Social Standards. She always inspired me with her sharp observations and passion for the work we do.  I always looked up to her as a mentor and most recently in our last MFI meeting, I was so surprised at how much energy she had even though she was ill. I remember the last time we spoke at a another MFI meeting where she shared with me how she was learning new languages. The world has lost a wonderful person but rest assured that her spark and wisdom will live on in many of use forever. My sincere condoloences to her family and friends. She has touched us all.   …

I met Michaela only a dozen times, mainly when she was visiting her brother David at the same time.  But every encounter was marked by energy, spirit, and an unquenchable zest for life.   One particular memory was a somewhat raucous brunch involving just the two of us where we exchanged professional news, and lots of gossip, and opined on how we would improve the world.  I cannot remember if the fuel was champagne or coffee but the conversation was electrifying with Michaela’s energy and wit.  She was a force of nature for good in our lives.   So sorry that she was taken at a young age.    …

Dear Michaela’s family, friends, Please accept my condolences. I still remember the first time I met Michaela in Belgrade, Serbia. We both worked as social development specialists for European banks. Later on we became colleagues at EBRD.  Michaela, you were truly the most dedicated and tireless promoter of social development, a strong voice for those often overlooked. It was your energy and drive that made the lives better for countless people. Your passion and laughter made this world a better place. Rest in peace, Dearest Michaela.  With love, Evelin …

Michaela was and will always be a special person to me. Her contagious smile and kind and guiding words will remain with me forever. I have been smiling ever since I met Michaela.  …

Although I only spoke with her a few times, it was obvious that Michaela was a very special person. Intelligent, compassionate, an open heart that sang to everyone who came into her company. She made you feel calm, and that everyhting would be okay, that everything could be put to right, and for so many in the world that’s exactly what she achieved, she put things right. It was such a shock that a soul so bright and pure was taken when Michaela still had so much more to give. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. …