In a bid to underscore Bank of Kigali's (BK) commitment to education and youth empowerment, Diane Karusisi, the Chief Executive Officer of BK, visited Maranyundo Girls School. During her visit on March 27, 2024, Karusisi not only gifted top performers across all levels but also conveyed invaluable advice to the students, urging them to cultivate knowledge hand in hand with ethical values. Karusisi’s engagement with the students was aimed at inspiring them for their future endeavours. Drawing from her journey, she shared her aspirations of becoming a medical professional, inspired by her late father’s expertise in chemistry. However, her academic path took an unexpected turn when studying abroad, as restrictions prevented her from pursuing science courses. Undeterred, she redirected her focus to economics, specialising in mathematics and statistics. After completing her studies, Karusisi embarked on a journey of continuous learning, eventually obtaining a Ph.D. Returning to Rwanda in 2009, she transitioned through roles at the National Institute of Statistics Rwanda (NISR) and the Office of the President before assuming her current position as CEO of one of Rwanda’s leading banks. Addressing the students, Karusisi emphasised the importance of integrity, perseverance, and avoiding shortcuts in the pursuit of success. Reflecting on her transformation from a young dreamer to a leader overseeing a workforce of over 1,000 employees, she highlighted the significance of seizing opportunities and fostering a culture of excellence. Karusisi outlined BK’s commitment to being an exemplary employer, fostering a conducive work environment where employees thrive and deliver exceptional service to clients. She also explained the diverse career opportunities within the bank, advocating for financial literacy and practical savings habits among the students. During a Q&A session, Karusisi shared insights into her working journey, overcoming challenges, and BK’s role in contributing to national development. The event concluded with the recognition of seven outstanding students for their academic achievements. Sister Laetitia Musanabaganwa, the headmistress of Maranyundo Girls School, commended BK’s initiative and echoed Karusisi’s sentiments on the importance of combining knowledge with values. Encouraging students to strive for excellence, she underscored the transformative power of education in shaping both individual lives and the nation as a whole. Two of the honoured students, Nora Karire and Norine Kagoyire, expressed gratitude for the enriching dialogue with the BK CEO. They shared insights gathered from Karusisi’s journey, emphasising the pivotal role of discipline, integrity, and teamwork in achieving success. During her visit, Karusisi explored the school’s facilities, including the robotics club, and acquainted herself with the school’s rich history. The visit served as a beacon of inspiration for the students of Maranyundo Girls School, reminding them of the limitless possibilities that await those who combine knowledge with values on their journey to success.
