Rising Stars: Equity Scholars Share Stories of Grit, Vision & New Beginnings

Lubowa — As the curtains close on a vibrant week of learning, mentorship, and self-discovery, the newly commissioned Cohort 4 scholars of the Equity Leaders Programme (ELP) are stepping into the next phase of their journeys—with renewed confidence, clarity of purpose, and dreams bigger than ever.

For seven transformative days, some of Uganda’s brightest young minds were immersed in a rich induction experience organised by Equity Bank Uganda, gaining not just leadership training and skills development but a deeper understanding of themselves and the roles they are destined to play in the future of Africa.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by Equity Bank Managing Director, Mr Gift Shoko, and renowned academic and Vice Chancellor of the Lubowa-based African Bible University of Uganda, Dr Jeremiah Pitts, who both challenged and inspired the scholars to be transformational leaders for Africa.

Scholars share their reflections

“I have always dreamed of starting a Pan-African school on a continent that has long been entangled in neo-colonialism,” shared Nanyodo Stella, one of the scholars commissioned today. “With Equity Bank being an Afrocentric institution, I am confident that, in one way or another, I will partner with you to achieve this dream.”

For Kamali Lwanga, the programme has been a powerful affirmation of resilience. “I lost my mother just as I was starting my A-Levels, and at that moment, I thought my education had come to a standstill,” Lwanga said emotionally.

“She supported me and took care of my siblings. But because of my drive, I kept pushing and completed A-Levels with 18 points. Here I am today as an ELP scholar. My dream is to become an administrator—having sold coffee, I believe this platform is bringing me closer to that dream.”

Among the remarkable stories was that of Sister Grace Aketch, whose return to education came after a long hiatus. “After spending two years as a sister, I was called by my superiors to return to school. At first, I didn’t embrace it confidently because I had been out of school for seven years,” she reflected.

“But I accepted and was taken back to school in Gulu. After excelling in my A-Level exams, I was surprised to be admitted into the Equity Leaders Programme. I didn’t expect it. I was just happy to be recognised as one of the best performers in Gulu.”

The week was also a time of deep introspection. Padde Demetrious, a passionate speaker and performer, compared purpose to a vehicle: “Purpose is like a car—you can have one that looks beautiful on the outside, well-polished and full of fuel, but if the engine isn’t running, it’s not going anywhere,” he said.

“Everything seemed right on the outside, but on the inside, I was stuck. Over the six days, one thing stood out for me: the value of purpose and identity. Who we are, what we are capable of, and the resources we have are simply tools to serve others.”

Awino Merry, a determined young woman from Tororo, shared a powerful story of courage and perseverance. “My lifelong dream has always been to become a lawyer, driven by a strong desire to help the less privileged because I am part of that group,” she said.

“I have always believed that disability is not inability. I did my Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) from a Universal Primary Education (UPE) school, but still passed and got into secondary school. I joined Tororo Girls for my A-Level, and it wasn’t easy—my parents had to sell almost everything they had to afford even a third of the school fees.”

Stunning artistic showcases

The commissioning ceremony was crowned with stunning artistic showcases by the scholars, including cultural dances and dramatic performances, proving that they are not just academic achievers but vibrant, multifaceted individuals.

As Equity Bank continues to invest in the future of African leadership, today’s commissioning stands as a powerful symbol of what’s possible when potential meets opportunity.

“This is just the beginning,” one scholar whispered backstage. “The world is waiting.”