Jose Rishmawi | Financial Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Jose Rishmawi | Financial Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

University of Chicago | Chile

Mr. Jose Rishmawi is an emerging economist whose academic and professional journey reflects a strong dedication to advancing knowledge in macroeconomics, international economics, and trade policy. With a rich background in research and policy advisory roles, he has contributed to shaping economic perspectives in both academic and institutional contexts. His professional experience includes impactful roles at the Central Bank of Chile, where he worked on critical economic analyses and policy recommendations. Currently pursuing his doctoral studies at a prestigious U.S. institution, his work bridges advanced economic theory with real-world policy applications, positioning him as a promising researcher and advisor in the field of economics.

Professional Profile

SCOPUS

Education

Mr. Rishmawi has pursued a robust academic path in economics, starting with a Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree in Applied Economics from the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile, where he graduated with honors and earned recognition for academic excellence. He later advanced his studies with a Ph.D. program in Economics at a leading U.S. university, focusing on advanced economic methodologies, international trade dynamics, and macroeconomic theory. His education reflects both a strong foundation in economic theory and a specialization in applying empirical tools to address real-world economic challenges.

Experience

His professional experience is marked by diverse and high-impact roles that combine economic research with policy implementation. At the Central Bank of Chile, he served as an Economic Research Analyst in the Big Data Analytics Department, contributing to data-driven analyses on firm delinquency, interest rate shocks, and exchange rate pass-through effects. Previously, he advised the Vice-Governor of the Central Bank of Chile, where he provided strategic insights and contributed to policy briefs addressing critical economic shifts. His earlier roles as a Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant further highlight his commitment to both advancing research and mentoring students in foundational economics, econometrics, and microeconomic theory.

Research Interest

Mr. Rishmawi’s research interests span macroeconomics, international economics, and international trade, with a strong emphasis on empirical and structural analysis. His work explores the transmission mechanisms of exchange rate fluctuations, the heterogeneity of interest rate shocks on firms, and the broader macroeconomic implications of policy changes. By employing advanced econometric techniques and integrating big data analytics, he aims to provide nuanced insights that inform monetary policy, trade strategies, and economic stability in emerging markets and global contexts.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic and professional journey, Mr. Rishmawi has been recognized for his exceptional achievements and contributions to economics. He has received competitive fellowships and awards that underscore his academic excellence and research potential, including prestigious recognition at his doctoral institution and top honors during his master’s and undergraduate studies. His early recognition as the best student in his academic programs reflects a consistent track record of outstanding performance and intellectual dedication.

Publication

Impact of the access to Fogape-Covid program on firm delinquency: Evidence from commercial loans within the banking system, 2025

Conclusion

With a strong foundation in applied economics, extensive experience in policy-oriented research, and a commitment to advancing economic thought, Mr. Jose Rishmawi exemplifies the qualities of a future leader in economics. His interdisciplinary expertise, spanning macroeconomic modeling, international trade analysis, and big data applications, positions him to make significant contributions to both academic research and global economic policy development. As he continues his doctoral research and academic career, his work holds the potential to influence economic strategies at national and international levels.

Weliswa Matekenya | Quantitative Social Science Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Weliswa Matekenya | Quantitative Social Science Research | Best Researcher Award

Nelson Mandela University | South Africa

Dr. Weliswa Matekenya is a seasoned Senior Lecturer in Economics at Nelson Mandela University (NMU), South Africa. With a profound dedication to research and academic excellence, she has established herself as a specialist in Maritime, Development, and Environmental Economics. Her scholarly contributions are evident in her extensive publication record, research consultancy experience, and active participation in national and international academic forums. Recognized as an emerging leader in economic research, Dr. Matekenya has garnered prestigious awards and research grants, reflecting her impact in shaping economic discourse in South Africa and beyond.

Professional Profile

ORCID

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Education

Dr. Matekenya earned her PhD in Economics from Nelson Mandela University, where her doctoral thesis explored the macroeconomic impact of ocean economy financing in South Africa. She holds a Master’s degree in Economics from the University of Fort Hare, where she researched the effect of oil price volatility on South Africa’s economic growth. Her academic journey also includes a Bachelor of Honours in Economics and a Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management and Economics, both from the University of Fort Hare. Her educational background has laid a strong foundation for her multifaceted research and teaching interests in economics.

Professional Experience

Dr. Matekenya currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at NMU’s Department of Economics, a position she has held since 2018. In this role, she teaches undergraduate and postgraduate modules including Environmental Economics, Development Economics, Econometrics, Public Economics, and Microeconomics. She has also served in several leadership capacities, such as Acting Head of Department and Chairperson of the Departmental Research Management Committee. She coordinates PhD and Master’s programs and actively contributes to curriculum development and ethics review panels.

Before joining NMU, she worked as a Research Consultant at Masutane Research Company, where she led data-driven projects, designed research methodologies, and conducted field studies. Her previous roles include lecturing positions at Educor and the University of Fort Hare, as well as serving as a Research Assistant in the Presidency of South Africa. Across these roles, she has gained valuable expertise in academic program coordination, research supervision, and policy analysis.

Research Interests

Dr. Matekenya’s research interests lie primarily in Maritime Economics, Development Economics, and Environmental Economics. She is particularly engaged in exploring the socio-economic dimensions of port infrastructure, ocean economy financing, and sustainable development strategies in coastal regions. Her recent projects include assessing the economic impact of seaports in South African regional economies and investigating the technical efficiency of ports in the SACU region using data envelopment analysis. She also focuses on topics such as climate change, foreign direct investment, financial inclusion, and SMME innovation.

Her involvement in international collaborative projects, such as those with UNU-WIDER under the SA-TIED initiative, has allowed her to explore transnational economic themes, including the role of Special Economic Zones in regional development. Her research integrates quantitative methodologies, including cointegration analysis and regression modeling, with policy-oriented perspectives, making her work both academically rigorous and practically relevant.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Matekenya has received several accolades that recognize her contributions to economic research and academic development. She was awarded the Emerging Researcher of the Year in 2022, affirming her position as a leading early-career researcher. She has also been a recipient of the Thuthuka Grant (2024–2026) for her project on the socio-economic impact of South African seaports. Additionally, she participated in the Black Academic Advancement Programme (BAAP) from 2020 to 2021, supporting the development of underrepresented scholars in academia.

Her active engagement in the academic community extends to international speaking engagements, such as the World Conference on Climate Change in Prague and panel discussions at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in India. Dr. Matekenya also serves as a peer reviewer for several journals, including the Journal of Chinese Economic and Foreign Trade Studies and the Journal of Shipping and Trade, and she holds an editorial position with the latter.

In sum, Dr. Weliswa Matekenya exemplifies scholarly leadership through her teaching, research, and engagement with economic development at local, national, and global levels. Her academic journey, underpinned by a solid educational foundation and a commitment to impactful research, positions her as an influential voice in shaping Africa’s sustainable economic future.

Publications

Impact of financing aquaculture on selected economic indicators in South Africa: cointegration approach

Authors: Weliswa Matekenya; Ronney Ncwadi
Journal: Journal of Applied Aquaculture
Year: 2024

The impact of maritime transport financing on total trade in South Africa

Authors: W. Matekenya; R. Ncwadi
Journal: Journal of Shipping and Trade
Year: 2022

Innovation as a driver of SMME performance in South Africa: a quantile regression approach

Authors: Weliswa Matekenya; Clement Moyo
Journal: African Journal of Economic and Management Studies
Year: 2022

Financial inclusion and human development: Evidence from Sub-Saharan Africa

Authors: Weliswa Matekenya; Clement Moyo; Leward Jeke
Journal: Development Southern Africa
Year: 2021

Firm and product survival analysis: Evidence from South African tax administrative and products data

Authors: Syden Mishi; Weliswa Matekenya; Leward Jeke; Ronney Ncwadi; Roseline Karambakuwa
Journal: WIDER Working Paper
Year: 2021

Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef | Blockchain | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef | Blockchain | Best Researcher Award

Em normandie campus Paris | France

Author Profile

Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef began her academic journey at Université Paris Dauphine – PSL, where she completed her Master’s degree in Economics and International Finance in 2003. She went on to earn a PhD in Economics in 2007, focusing her doctoral research on the dynamics of public debt in developing countries, integrating institutional, economic, and financial perspectives—an area that would later define her academic career.

Professional Endeavors

Her professional experience spans both academia and government service. She worked as a Public Services Advisor at the Ministry of Finance in Tunisia, before transitioning to academia, holding positions such as Lecturer, Assistant Professor, and Associate Professor at institutions like Université de Carthage, ESLSCA Paris Business School, and EM Normandie. At ESLSCA, she served as Director of the Finance Department and Program Director for the Finance & Data Performance MBA. In 2023, she joined EM Normandie as an Associate Professor of Finance.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Ajili Ben Youssef’s research focuses on Finance Digitization, Sustainable Finance, and Public Debt. Her work includes studies on blockchain, big data, cyber risk, and resilience in financial systems. She has published in both national and international peer-reviewed journals and contributed to books on financial innovation, economic governance, and sustainability. Her interdisciplinary approach allows her to explore how technological transformation affects finance.

Impact and Influence

Through her contributions, she has influenced discourse on sovereign debt sustainability, digital financial ecosystems, and ESG finance. Her research has guided frameworks in MENA countries, and she has delivered talks at major international events. She serves as a reviewer for prominent journals and is regularly invited to academic, policy, and industry forums as a keynote speaker and panelist.

Academic Citations

Her scholarly work includes over 20 peer-reviewed publications in journals like Financial Innovation, British Accounting Review, Journal of Sustainable Development, and Journal of Post Keynesian Economics. Her work is widely cited in discussions on financial regulation, emerging markets, capital controls, and digital transformation in accounting and finance.

Technical and Research Skills

Dr. Ajili Ben Youssef is proficient in empirical research, economic modeling, and data analysis. Her technical strengths include applying advanced tools for assessing systemic risk, sovereign debt impact, and technology adoption in financial systems. She also integrates qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze institutional behavior and policy effects.

Teaching Experience

With over a decade of experience, she has taught courses including Treasury Management, Financial Markets, International Finance, Macroeconomics, and Accounting at both graduate and undergraduate levels. She has taught at EM Normandie, ESLSCA Business School, and Université de Carthage, and has supervised more than 100 Master’s and DBA theses in the past five years.

Leadership and Editorial Roles

She has held multiple academic leadership roles including Head of Finance Department, MBA Program Director, and Course Leader. She serves on the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Accounting, Finance and Risk Management and has been a reviewer for journals like Journal of Cleaner Production and Journal of Sustainable Finance & Investment. She actively contributes to scientific committees, workshops, and colloquia.

Professional Recognition and Awards

Her excellence in teaching and curriculum innovation has earned her several awards, including the Reconnect Tunisian Finance Women Award (2023) and three Eduniversal MBA Prizes: Innovation (2021), Launch (2022), and Tremplin (2023). These awards underscore her contributions to advancing finance education and academic leadership.

Outreach and Thought Leadership

Dr. Ajili Ben Youssef engages widely in public discourse through articles in journals such as L’Économiste Maghrébin, where she writes on topics including technological disruption, financial resilience, and COVID-19 impacts. She has delivered keynotes, moderated roundtables, and presented at international forums across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Mentorship and Supervision

She consistently supervises an average of 15 to 20 theses per year, covering topics such as financial innovation, risk management, and ESG investing. Her mentorship combines academic precision with professional relevance, nurturing future scholars and finance practitioners.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef continues to shape the future of sustainable finance, digital innovation, and economic governance. Her upcoming research will focus on integrating artificial intelligence, fintech, and regulatory frameworks to address emerging global financial challenges. Through her teaching, leadership, and research, she remains a prominent figure in transforming financial education and policy research.

Publications

 Finance in the Digital Age: The Challenges and Opportunities

Authors: Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef, Nadia Mansour
Source: Book Chapter in Technology: Toward Business Sustainability
Year: 2024
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-54009-7_5

 Uncovering Asymmetrical Contagion Effects: US Monetary Policy and Emerging Markets

Authors: Chokri Zehri, Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef, Latifa Saleh Iben Ammar
Journal: The Journal of International Trade & Economic Development
Year: 2024
DOI: 10.1080/09638199.2024.2310700

The Factoring 2.0 in the Era of the Fintech Revolution Context

Authors: Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef, Nadia Mansour
Source: Book Chapter in Digital Technology and Changing Roles in Managerial and Financial Accounting: Theoretical Knowledge and Practical Application
Year: 2024
DOI: 10.1108/s1479-351220240000036004

Corporate Resilience in the Face of COVID-19: A Proposal Measurement Index

Authors: Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef, Imen Ben Slimene, Samir B. Maliki, Mourad Kertous, Afef Khalil, Nassiri Abdelhak, Mohammed El Amine Abdelli
Journal: Management International
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.59876/a-jq8d-0ztz

A Critical Analysis of Capital Controls: Implications for Crisis Prevention and Economic Performance

Authors: Chokri Zehri, Latifa Saleh Iben Ammar, Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef
Journal: International Review of Applied Economics
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.1080/02692171.2023.2291556

The Temporal Dimensions of Policy Responses to Capital Surges

Authors: Chokri Zehri, Latifa Saleh Iben Ammar, Wissem Ajili Ben Youssef, Fatma Zehri
Journal: Journal of Post Keynesian Economics
Year: 2023
DOI: 10.1080/01603477.2023.2275573