Equity Bank Uganda has officially welcomed 100 of the country’s brightest minds into the prestigious Equity Leaders Programme (ELP), marking the start of a transformative journey aimed at shaping Uganda’s future leaders for both local and global impact.
The newly admitted scholars, selected from top UACE performers in districts that host Equity Bank branches, began their journey with an induction ceremony in Kampala. The programme, which includes a three-month paid internship and mentorship, also supports applications to leading global universities.
Speaking at the induction at African Bible University in Lubowa, Equity Bank Uganda Managing Director Gift Shoko inspired the scholars to embrace resilience and ambition in their leadership paths. “We are grooming leaders not just for Uganda, but for the global stage, so Africa has a voice at the table,” Shoko said. “Leadership is never made in simple ways; don’t expect a simple journey.”
He urged the scholars to think beyond the ordinary, likening their journey to that of eagles. “Eagles fly alone at high altitudes,” he noted. “Be that eagle. Be transformative. It’s not easy, but take the lonely path if needed. Be resilient, aim for distinction, and don’t fear challenges.”
Shoko encouraged the students to craft a long-term vision for their lives and careers. “How do you see yourself in the next 20 years? Even in the storm, be resilient. Dream big! Write down your dreams. Keep them alive.”
Drawing from personal experience as a father, he offered deeper life guidance. “I always tell young people to test before trusting. What you see isn’t always what you get. I tell young girls: speak to yourself, direct yourself, and stay true to yourself. The world can be deceiving—let your inner voice guide you.”
In closing, Shoko left the scholars with two powerful principles he taught his daughters: “One, there’s no such thing as a free lunch—never accept it. Nature and God never made one. Secondly, if it is to be, it is up to me. Own your journey. Take personal responsibility every day.”
The new cohort follows on the heels of a major ELP milestone. In January 2025, Equity Bank Uganda celebrated the graduation of its first group of scholars—29 out of 122 who joined the program in 2022—who have since completed their university degrees. Many of these graduates gained valuable experience through internships with the bank, while others have embarked on promising careers across various industries.
The Equity Leaders Programme, a key initiative under the Education and Leadership Development pillar of the Equity Group Foundation, operates in Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The programme blends academic rigour, leadership training, character development, and practical experience to nurture the next generation of African changemakers.
Through this initiative, Equity Bank continues to empower high-achieving youth with the tools and networks they need to rise as transformative leaders across the continent.
