Hello, I am Advocate Brownie Ebal
I am a legal Practitioner, Venture Capitalist and Philanthropist.
Welcome to my site.
I love life, travelling, food, beauty, the law, leadership and meeting people from diverse backgrounds. I hope to inspire each one of you with my various articles as I share from my experiences around our beautiful world.
I live in Kampala, Uganda.
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Article 12: Key leadership and career tips for Young Lawyers
On Monday 19th December, 2022, the Young Lawyers mentorship Series was privileged to host The ULS President Emeritus, SC. Pheona Nabasa Wall.
The Young Lawyer’s mentorship Series is an initiative by the Uganda Law Society which is platform that was established to enrich the knowledge of young legal practitioners in Uganda. This platform enables the young people gain insights on how to make it big in the Ugandan legal field and emerge as respectable persons of society.
These are the key insights I picked from her talk:
According to Pheonah, leadership is a calling and not a career as anyone can be a leader. In this light, each one of us should strive to walk the talk so as to inspire others to be the best version of themselves.
The ULS President emeritus tasked young people to embrace leadership. Leadership is not in a title but how you carry yourself. She encouraged all young people to strive to be relevant in this digital age and innovate new ways to solveproblems. She encouraged the youth to grab the opportunity that social media brings and use it to positively impact the lives of others.
She further highlighted that one’s success depends on one’s daily routine. She encouraged members to wake up early and discussed her morning routine which starts at 5 am. This, she said, has helped her reach office early and dedicate an hour to complete her pending work on time without the interruptions that come from office interactions.
The Guest Speaker further encouraged members to take up the spirit of volunteerism. She said that giving back to your community and those less privileged than you will open doors that you never knew existed. Acts of service are a blessing to all. As the Bible says: “It is better to give than to receive.”
She challenged members to create a brand for themselves so that they are known for something positive. She stated that one way to achieve this is through being consistent and keeping your word. This will enable people trust you and give you more responsibility. “If you cannot be trusted with little, then you cannot be trusted with much, “She reiterated.
Key tips on how to progress in one’s career
She stated that each one of us needs to know what we want and work towards it. Sometimes, life can throw various challenges at us but we need to keep steadfast and on track in order to accomplish anything.
She encouraged members to keep learning, retooling and reskilling in an area that interests them.
Key tips on dealing with difficult bosses
She encouraged listeners to read “The 48 laws of Power by Robert.” It will provide insights on how to deal with power.
She encouraged members to pick their battles wisely. Always ask yourself, is it worth it? Also, always remember who is the boss, respect and understand your boss and ensure that they are happy. A happy boss will always vouch for you.
Key tips to keep motivated
She advised members to always put God first. She challenged members to have accountability partners who will keep them on track especially with their faith. This will keep one centered and motivated to keep doing good as Jeremiah 9:11 states:
“I alone know the plans for you, plans not to harm you but plans to prospers you and give you hope and a future.”
Parting shots
She told members not to be afraid to fail as it is part of the leadership journey. You can only learn by trying, not by spectating.
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Article 11: Insights from the International Women Judges Conference
By; Josephine Lunkuse
On 15th December, 2023, the Uganda Chapter of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ) hosted their annual gala at the prestigious Sheraton Hotel. The event welcomed distinguished representatives from diverse sectors, including esteemed judges from the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, and High Court, as well as registrars and magistrates. Notable attendees also included representatives from key organizations such as the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC), National Social Security Fund (NSSF), Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
Established in 1991, IAWJ is a non-profit, non-governmental organization that unites judges from various levels of the judiciary worldwide. The organization forms a robust network of influential leaders bound by their dedication to equal justice and the rule of law.
Through judicious and community-based initiatives, the organization ardently addresses issues encompassing gender-based violence, human trafficking, early and forced marriages, corruption, along with combating discrimination in employment, inheritance, education, and health services.
Her Royal Highness Sylvia Nagginda, the esteemed guest of honor, emphasized in her opening remarks the pivotal role women play as the backbone of societies. She underscored the significance of collaborative efforts to support vulnerable women. Furthermore, she urged judicial officers to expedite cases, embody qualities of substance, and inspired them to break barriers in their unwavering pursuit of equality and equity.
In her closing remarks, Her Royal Highness expressed heartfelt appreciation for organizations that have championed women’s empowerment, citing NWSC for not only employing women but also entrusting them with significant roles. She highlighted the transformative impact of this support, emphasizing its potential to embolden women who may hesitate to vie for prominent positions. Additionally, she noted that such initiatives contribute to shifting societal norms, challenging the mindset of men who may still resist allowing their wives to pursue professional careers.
Ms. Ebal conveyed sincere gratitude to NWSC for its unwavering commitment to empowering women in the legal sector. She applauded the organization for offering invaluable opportunities that facilitate the advancement and flourishing of women in their professional careers.
NWSC stands as a shining testament to the empowerment of women. Setting a positive example has not only inspired women globally but has also elevated the standards of living within families.–
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Article 10: Fostering Women’s Empowerment in Law Through The Female Lawyers Network
10th.12.23
By; Josephine Lunkuse
The National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) stands as a beacon of empowerment for women, fostering inclusivity and breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields. NWSC’s commitment to gender equality is reflected in the substantial presence of skilled individuals and exemplified through initiatives that empower women in diverse sectors, from plumbing to leadership and legal roles.
Yesterday evening, NWSC’s female lawyers added a touch of grace to the Female Lawyers Network Distinguished Dinner hosted at Hotel Africana. The event, themed “Strategic Equality in Law,” highlighted the organization’s aim to foster a legal landscape where gender equality is strategically pursued and celebrated.
NWSC’s presence at this distinguished gathering underscored its dedication to supporting and promoting women in the legal profession, contributing to the broader cause of equality and diversity in the field.
The First Deputy Prime Minister, Ms. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, served as the chief guest and offered valuable counsel to the attendees. She encouraged them to embrace resilience, nurture creativity, and never underestimate their potentials.
In a pivotal moment, Ms. Kadaga officially launched the pioneering female law firm set to open its doors in Uganda, marking a significant step towards fostering inclusivity and empowering women in the legal profession.
The Female Lawyers Network (FLN), a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting female excellence, support, and development in the legal arena.
Thereafter, representatives from the National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and Seatini shared invaluable insights, guiding the audience on leveraging skill sets to propel their legal careers. The discussions emphasized the significance of adversity, financial discipline, self-proving, team collaboration, emotional intelligence, and the importance of having a mission in life. Attendees were encouraged to find their niche, collaborate with fellow lawyers for knowledge expansion, and seize diverse opportunities.
Lastly, the event culminated in engaging discussions led by panelists, including Hon. Lady Justice Irene Esther Mulyangoja, offering practical strategies for achieving their professional goals.
For more information follow FLN on:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/female-lawyers-network-uganda-315b61260/?originalSubdomain=ug
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Article 9:TEDX Entebbe Insights: A Tapestry of Community, Empathy, and Personal Growth.
On Friday 20th October, 2023, TEDX Entebbe organised an independently organised TED event which featured a number of diverse voices and experiences who brought forth a tapestry of wisdom, highlighting key themes of community, empathy, personal growth, and the dynamic evolution of the digital age.
These are my 4 Key Takeaways from the event.We should not underestimate the power of community.
- We should not underestimate the power of community.
Joel Aita Jaffer was the first speaker with The Stone Soup Ideology. His story highlights the idea that collective magic transcends individual stones. He stated that they are building a 50 billion staidum in Arua because of the contributions of the common person. Any person can own a shop in the stadium with the lowest owner paying 10,000/= a day. His story showed that despite not qualifying for a loan. His company, through the lovely Arua community, are able to build a stadium that will uplift Arua city and beyond.
2. Share your good deeds with the world to inspire others.
Civic Source, team led, Jacqueline Asiimwe, shared that Civic Source embracing African philanthropy through sharing African communal stories that are touching lives. At Civic Source they aim to change the mentality that philanthropy is a rich man’s or white man’s philosophy and highlight the generosity of Africans. Tonny Otoa, CEO, Ubuntu leadership Safari discussed about his journey on using social media as a positive force in the community. Ubuntu Leadership Safari holds Community Fridays which cascades into a ripple effect of shared wisdom. Robert Kabushenga shared insights on humility as the cornerstone of empathy. He further stated that for one to be empathetic, they have to be self-aware and authentic in whatever they do, this will enable people want to communicate to you. He further urged the audience to stimulate adversity in their lives through occasionally creating challenging situations. He did this recently by climbing Mountain Rwenzori. He stated that such acts will keep one’s ego in check and remind you to stay humble. He ended his presentation by urging members to embrace gratitude and do good those who cannot do anything for you. This was clearly highlighted by a Dr. Gladys Atto, who is providing free eye care to less privileged communities of Karamoja. She shared her journey on interacting with the locals and urged more Ugandans to serve in hard-to-reach areas.
3. Resilience and scaling up companies.
Anthony Natiff, the former CEO of Guardian Health, urged entrepreneurs to empower staff through ownership of the company and giving people more responsibility. He stated that your job as the leader of a company should be to empower others to run the company, that is how great companies thrive for hundreds of years, long after their founder. Vincent Kayomba, the CEO of Pinnacle Security Limited, shared his personal journey of resilience from being a little boy in the village, selling fish to owning his own security company. He urged the audience to never give up and always give your best. His journey was one where his hard work created opportunities for him and enable him to create trust with people who elevated him through his journey. Michael Niyitegeka, CEO, Refactory; provided insights on life skills and adapting to the evolving technology in order for one to survive. Technology is your friend, he reiterated, use it to grow your business.
4. Do not forget to enjoy the journey.
Jerry Opoka, then shared insights on using dance for mental health through her dance sessions that have become a safe place for women to grow together. The TED Talk was crowned with DJ Mitch’s journey of self-innovation where he provided insights for members to absorb essential skills for personal and professional growth. He shared that Public Speaking came natural to him and he was having fun when MC ing at different events. He stated that this has enabled him to enjoy the journey and be in the present. He told the audience to look at what they are good at, what brings them joy, let it be your unique niche and communicate it clearly to the outside world so they know you for that particular skill. His skill is Public Speaking and he enjoys it.
In conclusion, I would like to thank TEDX Entebbe for organising an amazing event. This TEDX Entebbe Event not only presented a kaleidoscope of experiences but also threaded a common narrative of community strength, empathy in action, and the perpetual journey of personal growth. It further showcased that in the digital age, embracing change, diversity and authenticity is paramount for creating a positive impact.
Written by Brownie Ebal
Legal Practitioner/ Venture Capitalist and Philanthropist
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Article 8: 5 key lessons from the fireside chat on establishing and maintaining multiple streams of income
Written by Adv. Brownie Ebal
“If you are the smartest person in the room, then you are probably in the wrong room.”
This adage really spoke to me and it propelled me and a group of my friends to attend the Uganda Law Society Female Lawyers Fire Side Monthly Convo. As a young female Lawyer and a business owner, I was particularly excited by this initiative. This was a networking opportunity for me to meet like-minded individuals from whom to learn ways to better myself and my business ventures.
Thus, Saturday 29th January, 2022, was a day to remember as I interacted with a diverse group of ladies comprised of business owners, Managing Partners in law firms and in-house lawyers. This group of eager women convened at AdvoJoyce Nalungo’s home for a knowledge sharing session where she encouraged us to diversify our incomes so as to become wealthy. She shared personal experiences on her business journey to elucidate some of the key points on establishing and maintaining multiple streams of income. Advocate Joyce Nalungo was very hospitable and only radiated positive vibes.
Below are the few take aways from this interactive session that I would like to share with all of us:
“A rich woman is an empowered woman!” was Advocate Joyce’s mantra that day.
- As ladies, we should not be afraid to start, everyone starts somewhere. Success is doing what failures cannot do. Starting a venture, is something most people even fail to accomplish, they spend most of their time thinking of all the negative things that can happen and even fail to set off. When you start something, you are motivated to think of ways in which you can propel yourself forward. Procrastination robs a lot of us from reaching our full potential. The rich are always thinking of ways in which to grow and improve their business. They do not fall into the comfort zone and neither should you. No one breaks the glass ceiling by being docile. So, as ladies, let’s all start by putting our ideas into action.
- To get a head in life, you have to build networks. These are the people that will propel you to the next stage of your life. To be able to be ahead of the game, you need to be in the game. Networks will help you earn a seat at the table and tap into areas that you did not know existed. So ladies, go to those events, attend conferences, attend meetings, listen in on webinars and let your voices be heard.
- For anyone to succeed in life, one must dream big and have timelines in which to achieve your goals. Ensure that you check your progress every month so that you keep focused to your goal. Have a vision board and have accountability partners to remind you of your commitments.
- Harness the power of social media. Use the influence you have both online and offline to attract an audience. This will help in self branding. Your brand online is as good as your brand offline, ensure what you post is relevant.
- We are in the business to make money therefore we should think with our heads not with our hearts. Business money is not your personal money. All business transactions should be well thought through so that you can reap profits from your business ventures. Your salary should be used to acquire a salary loan that will be used for investment purposes. She urges the ladies that when getting a loan, you should use it to acquire an asset and not a liability.
- In conclusion, Advocate Joyce urged all members to:
“Be too much and keep striving to improve yourself daily. This will definitely lead to progress in all our lives as we are all inspiring each other day by day.”
Hon. Joyce NalungaSpecial thanks goes to the Female Lawyers Committee of Uganda Law Society for organizing this.
About Me
I love reading, writing, attending events, learning, leadership and meeting new people.
I hold a Masters Degree in International Law and I am passionate about life.
If you are interested in learning more about self discovery and becoming the best version of yourself.
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