A new cohort of 750 top-performing secondary school graduates has been inducted into the Equity Leaders Program (ELP), an initiative by Equity Group Foundation designed to empower young talent for future leadership roles.

These top-performing secondary school graduates, many of whom achieved Grade A and A-, will begin a six-month internship with Equity Bank branches nationwide, preparing for their transition to university.

This new cohort includes 350 Wings to Fly and Elimu Scholars, 167 top-performing students from each sub-county, and 233 national scholars with a minimum of Grade A (Plain).

At the commissioning ceremony, Equity Group Foundation Executive Chairman Dr. James Mwangi addressed the scholars, congratulating them for their academic achievements.

“You are here today because you have demonstrated consistent excellence and determination in your academic journey, and we are proud to have you join us as part of this transformative experience," Mwangi stated.

Read More

  1. Equity Bank slashes lending rates again after CBK latest monetary policy review
  2. Equity, IFC unveil Sh2.58 billion risk-sharing facility for marginalized groups
  3. Equity unveils Joska branch, expanding its footprint to 212 locations nationwide

"This Program is not just about providing you with valuable work experience, it’s about nurturing your leadership skills, empowering you to become change-makers in your communities and beyond, and equipping you with the tools to succeed in both your university studies and your professional future."

"You represent the future of Africa, and we, at Equity, are excited to walk with you as you take your next steps. This is just the beginning of your journey to greatness. We believe in you, and we are here to support you every step of the way," he added.

The scholars also participated in a two-week induction programme, where they engaged with leaders from various sectors, including the leadership team at Equity.

Moses Nyabanda, Managing Director of Equity Bank Kenya, spoke to the group during the induction, stressing the importance of values in leadership.

“As future leaders, it is crucial that you are known for your principles,” he said. “At Equity, we believe in values such as professionalism, integrity, creativity, innovation, teamwork, and a shared purpose," Nyabanda remarked.

"Above all, we emphasize respect and dignity for our customers, as well as strong corporate governance.'

Nyabanda challenged the students to embody the values, not only in their work but also in their everyday lives as they step into roles that will shape the future.

During their six-month internship, the scholars will receive a monthly stipend, with a portion saved and released upon their transition to university to promote financial discipline.

The program also includes mentorship from globally experienced professionals, helping the scholars make informed decisions about their academic and career paths.

Dieume Baraka, a former student of Starehe Boys Centre who achieved an A (Plain) in the 2024 KCSE, shared that, despite coming from a challenging background, he always believed education was the key to a better future.

He expressed excitement about joining the program, stating that it would equip him with the leadership tools to bring positive change to his community.

Salmo Abdullahi Hassan, a former student of Parklands Arya Girls Secondary School who achieved an A- (Minus), expressed gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting how the mentorship during the two-week induction had been invaluable.

She looks forward to learning more during the internship and using those lessons to make a positive impact.

Elema Badaqe Duba, a former student of Makueni Boys High School, shared his journey of overcoming significant challenges in Marsabit, including walking long distances to school and sleeping outside.

He expressed gratitude for being selected for the Equity Leaders Program and saw it as a way to transform his family’s life and contribute to his community’s development.

The Equity Leaders Program has already supported over 29,000 scholars since its inception.

With the addition of this new cohort, the total number of scholars benefiting from the six-month pre-university internship now stands at 9,700. T

hese scholars have access to mentorship, life skills training, and work readiness programs to prepare them for success.

The program also helps students navigate the transition to university through a College Counselling initiative, which has enabled 970 scholars to secure fully funded scholarships to universities worldwide.

The program’s global reach is exemplified by its support for students at top universities, including Ivy League institutions, empowering them to become competitive on the world stage.

Equity’s focus on leadership development and entrepreneurship ensures that its alumni are making a tangible impact in various sectors, including the establishment of 132 Equity Afya medical centres across Kenya and the DRC.

Through initiatives like the Equity Leaders Program, Equity Group Foundation continues to foster a new generation of leaders who will contribute to the growth and development of Kenya, Africa, and the global community.