This portrait captures Katherine Reynolds, a trailblazing member of the city's finance team, whose innovative microlending initiatives helped empower those most impacted by the sweeping civic redevelopment under architect Thomas Danielson.
As entire neighbourhoods fell victim to Danielson's polarising overhaul, Reynolds spearheaded new programs providing low-income residents and displaced workers with access to modest business loans and training. Her grassroots "Finance from Below" approach aimed to cultivate economic self sufficiency and social mobility opportunities amid the disruptive overhaul of the urban landscape.
Reynolds' pioneering work developing the municipal microfinance model earned her widespread acclaim, including the prestigious Marshall Award for "furthering economic and social development in the region." Reynolds' steadfast determination was characterised by her efforts to temper growth's upheaval with inclusive, grassroots solutions.
Her portrait stands as an emblematic reminder that even boldest visions for progress must be counterbalanced by compassion for those most vulnerable to its unsettling impacts.
