Equity Bank Bootcamp Cohort 5: Students Introduced to Wealth Creation, Long-term Financial Growth as UNOC Boss Tells Them to Stop Comparing Themselves to Others

By Mulengera Reporters 

Students attending the ongoing Equity Leaders Program (ELP) Cohort 5 Bootcamp have been urged to embrace personal growth, discipline, and innovation as key pillars for future leadership and success.

Speaking during Day 4 of the bootcamp at African Bible University in Lubowa, Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) Chief Corporate Affairs Officer Tony Otoa challenged scholars to stop comparing themselves to others and instead focus on personal transformation and purpose.

Otoa emphasized that leadership begins with mindset and personal responsibility, urging participants to adopt what he described as a “transition mindset” — the ability to see change as an opportunity for growth, reinvention, and adaptation rather than something to fear.

He encouraged the students to intentionally pursue growth, even when it feels uncomfortable, while emphasizing the importance of reading and continuous learning in shaping future leaders.

“Do not focus on competing with others. Focus on who you are becoming,” Otoa told the scholars during the session organized by Equity Bank Uganda.

The Day 4 sessions brought together several corporate leaders and professionals who shared lessons on leadership, financial literacy, technology, and personal development with the scholars.

Equity Bank Uganda Head of Legal Elizabeth Nayiga delivered a session centered on humility, wisdom, and character formation. She warned students against pride, noting that talent and academic success alone are insufficient without discipline, strong values, and emotional intelligence.

Nayiga encouraged participants to trust their own journey, learn from mistakes, and avoid unhealthy comparisons with peers. She also challenged them to think beyond classroom achievement and focus on developing moral judgment, self-awareness, and identity.

Meanwhile, New Vision Editor-in-Chief Barbara Kaija called on the scholars to stop “waiting for rescue” and instead take full responsibility for their lives and ambitions.

Kaija stressed the importance of purpose, discipline, and self-worth, urging the students to make decisions that align with their future aspirations. She further highlighted the role of reading, effective communication, and meaningful relationships in building successful leadership careers.

“Leadership requires continuous learning, confidence, and strong networks,” she noted.

In another session, Equity Bank Uganda Head Credit Underwriting Edson Nagaba introduced scholars to concepts of wealth creation and long-term financial growth. He explained the difference between assets and liabilities, emphasizing that true wealth comes from investments and value creation rather than short-term financial gains.

Nagaba encouraged participants to dream beyond their limitations and pursue professional certifications and continuous learning to remain competitive in the modern workplace.

“Real success is not just about becoming rich. It is about combining financial progress with personal development and competence,” he said.

The scholars also received insights into the future of banking and technology from Business Integration Manager Josh Nelson Mandela, who highlighted how digital banking, artificial intelligence, automation, cloud computing, and data analytics are transforming the financial sector.

Mandela urged the students to embrace innovation and creativity, noting that future professionals must understand how technology drives efficiency and competitiveness.

Head Payments and Channels Immaculate Asiimwe also introduced the scholars to Equity Bank’s digital banking solutions, explaining how technology is improving customer convenience, accessibility, and efficiency in banking operations.

The Equity Leaders Program Bootcamp continues to provide scholars with mentorship, practical exposure, and networking opportunities aimed at preparing them for university life and the professional world. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).