Gladys Lubowa Transforms Women's Access to Finance at KCB Bank Uganda

In Kamwokya’s vibrant community, Ms Gladys Nalukenge Lubowa began her path with determination, attending Homisdallen Primary School and Mengo Senior School before earning a Business Computing degree from Makerere University. Now pursuing an MBA in Executive Leadership from Southeastern University in the US, she was inspired by her single mother’s hard work in employment and small business.

Balancing evening classes with a daytime job as an administrator at a dental center honed her discipline and independence. This foundation propelled her banking career, starting at Dfcu Bank in customer service and business development, before joining KCB Bank Uganda in 2023 with over 13 years of experience in relationship management and credit risk.

At KCB, she leads the Female-Led and Made Enterprise (FLME) segment, providing tailored loans, mentorship, networks, and market access. ‘What makes me most proud is seeing women build sustainable businesses, create jobs, and drive economic growth,’ she says. Her efforts go beyond finance, focusing on business sustainability.

Lubowa mentors women in her team, building their confidence in decision-making and client engagement. Facing scrutiny in male-dominated spaces, she emphasizes consistency: ‘Do not second-guess yourself. You do not have to be perfect, just be consistent and authentic.’ She advocates for more women in senior roles through mentorship and exposure.

Her leadership lessons include effective delegation, and she advises young women to develop skills in credit, risk, and leadership while embracing challenges. Looking ahead, she aims for executive positions to boost women-owned businesses.

In quick insights, she recommends aligning bank accounts with financial goals, prioritizes rest and family for self-care, prefers handwriting for reflection, and aspires to executive impact in the next decade.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)