On an early Wednesday morning of 11th, August 2021, 90% of all bank staff attended the launch of "WINR” - Women in NCBA Rwanda – Forum at 7am.

The launch themed "Career Progression”, in a male-dominated environment set the tone for the over 45% of female staff currently building their careers at the bank.

Women in NCBA Rwanda’s mission is to provide a forum to inspire, share professional knowledge, promote teamwork, encourage networking across genders and in doing so improve the sustainability and profitability of the bank. In addition, the forum aims to be a catalyst for attracting and retaining talent and promoting women leaders at NCBA Rwanda.

Mr. Daniel Musafiri, the NCBA Head of Business acknowledged that men have critical role to play as leaders, peers and colleagues and thus encouraged women to network and ensure that the network adds value and challenges them in beneficial ways.”; while Ms. Deborah Gasatura, shared that in only two years she has grown from being an Executive office manager to the CEO and is now an HR officer is grounded on the premise that one should give themselves grace when mistakes are made, and believe in themselves when challenged.

The guest speaker Ms. Umulinga Karangwa, a fund manager and a member in various boards, shared that "To be successful, you have to be selfish, take a break when you need to. If you need change, communicate it. Because the more alignment there is, the more successful you will most likely become.”

Lina Higiro the CEO stated that "The Forum will launch NCBA women into a new era of awareness, connection and growth”. She emphasized that WINR will function like all other departments with approved strategic plans and leadership. – Lina Higiro – NCBA Bank Rwanda, CEO.