I&M Bank stood out for its emphasis on team spirit and sectoral engagement during the 2024 Bankers Sports Gala, which concluded on October 20th at Kyambogo University in Kampala. The annual event, hosted by the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services and the Uganda Bankers Association, brought together over 20 banks to compete in a variety of sports disciplines.
With competitions in athletics, football, basketball, tug of war, sack race, and bottle balancing race, the gala offered a mix of fitness, networking, and fun. I&M Bank was well-represented, with CEO Robin Bairstow leading the charge in the CEO/EXCOM walk race.
“It’s been a good experience; it was nice seeing I&M Bank staff come together for an engagement outside the office. Events like this foster team spirit and allow us to interact in a more relaxed, fun environment, which is refreshing compared to our usual professional settings,” I&M Bank CEO Robin Bairstow said, adding that, “Today also presented a grand opportunity for us to interact with the regulators, away from official settings, as well as colleagues from across the banking sector.”
I&M Bank was also represented by Exco members that included- the Executive Director and Chief Operations Officer- Sam Ntulume Chief Business Officer- Edward Gibson Nangono, Head of Operations Duncan George Karugaba, Head of Human Resources- Lucy Akech, and other staff members.
I&M Bank, which took part in all competitions at the event, has become a regular at the games, exhibiting commitment in terms of teamwork, as well as sectoral engagement, that is critical for the steady growth of the financial sector.
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“Among other benefits, events like this foster team spirit amongst bankers, and allow them to interact in a more relaxed fun environment, which is extremely refreshing,” said Annette Nakiyaga, Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at I&M Bank.
“Engaging in sports helps develop skills like leadership, communication, and discipline, which translate back into our work environment. Plus, it creates a sense of community and belonging within the organization,” Nakiyaga added.
According to the organizers, the future looks promising for the gala. As the event grows, it will likely attract more participants, making it a bigger platform for networking and engagement. It could evolve into a key annual event that strengthens bonds across the banking industry.
The Bankers Sports Gala is a grand sporting, networking, and social event that draws participation from employees of supervised and licensed financial institutions, including the Bank of Uganda (BOU). Its major objective is to foster relaxation of body and mind, providing a forum for fitness, education, fun, and entertainment for participants.