On August 9, Equity Bank Rwanda commissioned the airlift of 19 scholars who have secured admissions and scholarships at prestigious universities worldwide. These scholars represent the third cohort of the Equity Leaders Program (ELP), launched in Rwanda in 2021.

To assist in their transition, Equity Bank Rwanda provided each scholar with an airlift token ranging from Rwf500,000 to Rwf2 million, depending on their destination.

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During the commissioning event in Kigali, Hannington Namara, the Managing Director of Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, said that the token is designed to cover post-admission expenses as the scholars embark on their academic journeys abroad.

Over the past six months, the scholars have participated in a comprehensive college counseling programme, which included coaching, mentoring, essay writing guidance, university selection, and preparation for admission exams.

The bank has also supported the payment of English Proficiency Tests, Scholastic Assessment Tests (SATs), and other pre-admission expenses, giving scholars an advantage in accessing global education opportunities, Namara added.

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Namara expressed his pride in the scholars, highlighting the transformative impact of the Equity Leaders Program. He noted that the young leaders have a responsibility to give back to their communities and serve as ambassadors of the programme.

"You have a responsibility, and in that obligation, you are not alone. You now have a community that you belong to,” Namara told the scholars.

Eugene Haguma, Board Chair of Equity Bank Rwanda Plc, mentioned the importance of the scholars’ role in nation-building and societal transformation.

He also stressed that they are part of a global network and urged them to contribute to Rwanda’s development.

"You are about changing other people’s lives, tapping into networks, and benefiting your community,” Haguma said.

The Equity Leaders Program is dedicated to shaping future leaders who will drive meaningful change throughout Rwanda and Africa. Since its inception in 1998, the programme has produced alumni who have become doctors, corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators, delivering impactful solutions to their communities.

"As these 19 scholars prepare to begin their studies at global universities, they carry with them the support, guidance, and responsibility imparted by the Equity Leaders Program. The programme not only provides access to world-class education, but also equips these young leaders with the values, skills, and perspectives needed to contribute to their communities and create lasting change,” he added.

Beneficiaries share their stories

Shakira Kamikazi, an alumna of the first cohort of the programme, expressed her gratitude for the opportunities provided by the Equity Leaders Program.

She highlighted the sense of connection and belonging that the programme fosters, noting that it has been instrumental in her personal and professional development.

Jean d’Amour Maniragaba, a scholar from the third cohort, shared his inspirational journey from a humble background in Nyaruguru District to securing a place in the programme.

He reflected on the transformative impact of the internship experience at Equity Bank and the lessons he learned about leadership, collaboration, and community engagement.

Haguma concluded by challenging fellow scholars to embrace the responsibility that comes with their achievements and to use their experiences to lay the foundation for the next generation of leaders.

"Your academic achievements have earned you a place in this global network of leaders, but your character and attitude will make you stay there and go even beyond,” he advised.

Ornella Rukundo, a second cohort scholar of the Equity Leaders Program and a student at the University of London, spoke about the transformative impact of her journey with Equity Bank.

She highlighted how the programme, from the initial induction to the hands-on internships across Equity Bank branches, shaped her and her peers into capable, driven leaders.

Rukundo expressed gratitude for the mentorship and support that not only aligned their professional aspirations with global opportunities but also elevated their expectations.