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 53: Hard Work Doesn’t Build Wealth
Written by Adv. Brownie Ebal and Victoria Nakiyimba.
While hard work is often seen as the cornerstone of success, Scott Galloway presents a compelling case that when it comes to building true wealth, it is not enough. In a thought-provoking episode of The Diary of a CEO — a podcast hosted by entrepreneur and investor Steven Bartlett — Galloway, as the guest speaker, breaks down the habits, mindset, and long-term strategies that actually drive wealth creation.
Scott Galloway is a professor of marketing at New York University Stern School of Business, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and outspoken commentator on business and society. With a career spanning successful startups, investments, and teaching, his insights are grounded in both academic theory and real-world experience. His candid, data-driven approach has made him a respected voice on financial independence, economic inequality, and modern capitalism. Below are the key takeaways from his insights:
1. Wealth is Built Through Consistent Habits: True wealth does not come from sudden windfalls — it results from disciplined, consistent financial behavior over time. That means putting money aside from every small earning, sticking to your weekly SACCO contributions, tracking expenses, or reinvesting profits from a side hustle. These small but consistent actions create long-term security and growth.
2. Prioritize Ownership Over Income: Earning a salary is important, but building wealth requires ownership—of assets like stocks, businesses, or property. Think beyond earning — save to buy a plot of land, invest in shares through the stock exchange, unit trusts, or slowly build a business. Ownership brings passive income and long-term stability in ways a salary never can.
3. Start Financial Education Early and Talk Openly About Money: Many people avoid discussing finances, but open conversations build financial literacy. Start by budgeting together as a family, teaching children how to manage pocket money, or setting saving goals as a couple. Within your circles — at work, church, or school — create room for real conversations about money, debt, saving, and investment.
4. Define Your “Number”: Setting a clear financial goal—how much you need to feel secure or retire comfortably—helps guide spending and saving. Whether it is saving UGX 30 million to build your house, or generating UGX 100,000 a week in passive income, knowing your target makes decisions around money more intentional and grounded.
5. Diversify Investments as You Grow: As life evolves, so should your investment approach. Start with what you can manage — maybe a small retail business — and as income increases, branch out into farming, money markets, or rental units. Avoid putting all your eggs in one basket; spread risk and increase your chances of sustainable returns.
6. Take Advantage of Urban Opportunities: Cities offer exposure and growth, especially early in your career. Being in an urban center gives you access to business expos, industry events, networking spaces, and educational resources. Even just attending a free public talk or skills workshop can introduce you to your next opportunity.
7. Seek Mentorship and Build Relationships: Behind most successful careers is a network of supportive mentors. Reach out to people doing work you admire. Ask questions, be teachable, and follow up. Whether it is an older colleague, a professional group, or someone in your community — relationships shape your growth more than you realize.
8. Master the Art of Storytelling: Being able to articulate your ideas and experiences in a compelling way can influence how others perceive and engage with you. Whether you are writing a resume, presenting a business pitch, or introducing yourself in a meeting — how you tell your story matters. Learn to communicate your value clearly and confidently.
9. Start Investing Early, Even in Small Amounts: Time is your biggest ally in wealth creation. Do not wait for a lump sum. Start with what you have — UGX 5,000 a week into a SACCO, small savings in a mobile wallet, or a basic investment product. The habit matters more than the amount at the start.
10. Recognize the Role of Luck and Privilege: Success is also influenced by luck, privilege, and timing. Some people begin with more — family property, connections, or access to capital. Others do not. Acknowledge those differences, but do not be discouraged. Stay focused, stay humble, and be ready when your moment comes.
Scott Galloway’s message reframes the conversation around wealth. It is not just about hustle—it is about planning, understanding risk, owning assets, and staying disciplined. Wealth is not merely a reward for effort; it is the result of thoughtful, educated decisions made over time. And for those willing to learn, adapt, and take control of their financial path, the opportunities are real and within reach.
For more information, please click on the link to watch video: https://youtu.be/rKOx5qlLyaA
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Article 52: The 7 Baby Steps to Financial Freedom: A Proven Path to Take Control of Your Money
Written by Adv. Brownie Ebal
Financial freedom is more than just having money in the bank—it is about peace of mind, flexibility, and the ability to make life decisions without being held back by debt or constant financial pressure. It means choosing how you spend your time, where you work, and how you live, with money as a tool—not a trap.
One of the clearest and most effective roadmaps to achieving financial freedom is Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps. These steps are simple, but not easy. They demand discipline, intentionality, and a mindset shift. But they have helped millions, and after watching the video, it is clear why they work: not just mathematically, but behaviorally.
Here is how they unfold:
Step 1: Save UGX 3.5 million (~$1,000) for a Starter Emergency Fund
Before focusing on paying off debt, your first goal should be setting aside a modest emergency fund. This cushion protects you from everyday surprises like a car breakdown or sudden medical expense—without turning to mobile loans or overdrafts. For liquidity and ease of access, consider keeping this emergency fund in a unit trust (unit fund) rather than a traditional bank savings account.
Unlike banks that typically offer very low interest rates on savings accounts, unit trusts invest your money in a diversified portfolio, potentially yielding better returns. They also maintain relatively quick access to your money. I personally recommend UAP Old Mutual Unit Trust—it is what I use. They issue regular statements and offer prompt withdrawals, making it an excellent option for an emergency fund. For more information, visit: https://www.uapoldmutual.co.ug
Other reputable unit trust providers in Uganda include:
- Sanlam Investments East Africa: https://invest-ug.sanlameastafrica.com
- Xeno Investment Management : https://myxeno.com
- ICEA Lion Asset Management: https://icealion.co.ug
- Britam Asset Managers: https://ug.britam.com
Kindly check them out and choose one that aligns with your investment goals and customer service expectations.
Step 2: Pay Off All Debt (Except Your Mortgage) Using the Debt Snowball Method
List all your non-mortgage debts—such as salary loans, mobile money loans (e.g., Airtel Money or MTN MoMo advances), SACCO loans, or credit card balances—from smallest to largest. Focus all your extra money on clearing the smallest debt first while making minimum payments on the rest. Each win gives you momentum and builds your confidence. In Uganda, where access to quick but costly credit is widespread, this step is crucial for breaking the debt cycle.
Step 3: Save 3–6 Months of Expenses in a Fully Funded Emergency Fund
Once you are debt-free (except your house), it is time to beef up your emergency fund. This fund should cover basic living expenses like rent, food, transport, and utilities for at least three months. If you lose your job or face a major crisis, you will have time and breathing space to recover without panic. Again, UAP Old Mutual or other low-risk money market accounts are excellent places to store this fund with access and security in mind.
Step 4: Invest 15% of Your Household Income Toward Retirement
With your safety net in place, shift your focus to long-term wealth. In Uganda, one of the best tools available is NSSF (National Social Security Fund). If you are self-employed or in the informal sector, consider making voluntary NSSF contributions—you can register easily through the NSSF Go App or visit their branches. You can also visit their website: https://www.nssfug.org for more information. In addition, explore treasury bills and bonds offered by the Bank of Uganda as stable, passive-income investment options. These instruments are secure and can yield higher returns than savings accounts over time.
Step 5: Save for Your Children’s Education
If you have children, start setting aside money for their school fees or university education. Open a dedicated education fund—many insurance companies in Uganda offer education policies with guaranteed payouts and optional life coverage. Alternatively, earmark some of your investments in treasury bonds to mature in time with your child’s academic milestones.
Step 6: Pay Off Your Home Early
Once your debts are clear, emergency fund set, and retirement and education plans are in motion, focus on eliminating your mortgage. In Uganda, this could be a loan from Housing Finance Bank or another institution. Paying off your home early saves millions in interest and gives you true financial freedom—no more rent or housing stress.
Step 7: Build Wealth and Give Generously
With no debt, a fully funded emergency reserve, ongoing investments, and a paid-off home, you are in a position to live and give with purpose. Support your church, community projects, or family in need. Generosity becomes a joy when your finances are in order—and it has a multiplying effect in society.
In conclusion, financial freedom is not just about money—it is about peace, control, and confidence. Dave Ramsey’s 7 Baby Steps offer a straightforward, actionable plan for anyone ready to take control of their finances and their future. It’s not always easy, but it is simple. And best of all—it works.
As Dave often says: “Live like no one else now, so later you can live and give like no one else.”
For more information on investments:
Joseph Areu- 0778171804
Referral: Brownie Ebal
Watch the video here to start your journey:https://youtu.be/lGHGzU3CtZg?si=RpgQIGfnCsfyVado
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Article 51: Negotiation & Presentation Mastery for Lawyers: Win Pitches, Maximize Margins, and Draft Airtight Deals.
Written by Adv. Brownie Ebal & Victoria Nakiyimba.
On 13th May 2025, legal professionals from across the continent tuned in for a high-impact webinar titled “Negotiation & Presentation Mastery for Lawyers: Win Pitches, Maximize Margins and Draft Airtight Deals.” Organized by the East Africa Law Society (EALS), the session attracted lawyers eager to sharpen their strategic skills in client engagement, contract drafting, and high-stakes negotiation.
The East Africa Law Society, a prominent regional bar association representing over 28,000 lawyers from across the East African Community, has long been at the forefront of advancing the rule of law, cross-border legal practice, and professional development. This session was part of its broader mission to equip legal practitioners with the tools necessary to thrive in an increasingly complex and competitive market.
The panel featured four distinguished speakers: Sunday Ndamugoba, Partner at Rive & Co; Asmahaney Saad, Partner at KTA Advocates; Dr. Pie Habimana, Non-Executive Director at Bank of Kigali Plc; and Modeste Mulumba, Managing Partner at Modest Mulumba Law Firm. Together, they offered a panoramic view of what it takes to succeed in today’s legal profession—where knowledge alone is no longer enough.
Sunday Ndamugoba delivered a comprehensive perspective on what defines a well-drafted, airtight contract in today’s complex commercial environment. Speaking from his Tanzanian legal context, he emphasized the importance of clarity and precision in language, ensuring that contracts are free from ambiguity and clearly outline obligations, timelines, and deliverables. He stressed the need for contracts to comprehensively anticipate contingencies—incorporating breach clauses, remedies, dispute resolution mechanisms, and local realities such as dual languages and sector-specific compliance. Importantly, he urged lawyers to design contracts that are not only enforceable and legally sound, but also adaptable over time. He later explored the growing role of emerging technologies like AI in contract drafting, acknowledging their usefulness in automating standard clauses and conducting reviews, while warning of the risks they pose when used without oversight. He noted that AI should remain an assistant, not a decision-maker, especially in regions where regulatory frameworks are still developing. According to Ndamugoba, the responsibility of sound judgment, client-specific strategy, and contextual awareness remains squarely with the lawyer.
Dr. Pie Habimana brought energy and clarity to the topic of pitch-making. He challenged lawyers to move beyond the conventional definitions of good legal service and begin offering strategic value. According to him, storytelling is not simply a presentation tool, it is a transformative method that allows lawyers to make complex legal arguments relatable and persuasive. He underscored that clients are no longer seeking lawyers who merely know the law, they want advisors who understand their business and help them make smart decisions. A compelling pitch, he said, should help clients see not just the legal solution, but the strategic advantage.
The discussion then shifted to negotiation, where Asmahaney Saad shared an insightful perspective grounded in her experience as both a corporate lawyer and a mediator. She reminded participants that negotiation is an everyday skill, not just a professional tool, but a part of life itself. Her approach was deeply human: she encouraged lawyers to enter negotiations prepared, to recognize the difference between a client’s wants and their needs, and to always be aware of the emotional undercurrents in the room. Drawing on relatable stories, she demonstrated how listening, empathy, and flexibility often achieve far more than rigid demands. Saad also spoke to the modern lawyer’s role as a value-driven partner, not just a service provider—especially when negotiating fees or managing client relationships in an increasingly AI-influenced world.
Modeste Mulumba added depth to the conversation with his reflections on managing pressure during high-stakes negotiations. He spoke about the importance of staying mentally centered and methodical—especially when counterparties are aggressive or dismissive. He encouraged lawyers to approach each negotiation with a clear mind, to understand each party’s goals, and to guide discussions toward mutually acceptable outcomes without losing professional composure. Mulumba also emphasized the power of calm body language and professional demeanor, particularly when trying to de-escalate tense situations.
Together, these discussions painted a picture of a profession undergoing profound transformation. Lawyers today must be far more than technically proficient—they must be persuasive communicators, thoughtful negotiators, and adaptive advisors. As the speakers made clear, legal services are no longer judged solely by their correctness, but by the strategic value and clarity they deliver to clients.
This webinar offered more than just practical tips—it was a deep and timely reflection on the evolving identity of the legal profession
For more information, please click on the link to watch full video: https://www.youtube.com/live/hJ9hpUAOeaA
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Article 50:Business and Human Rights in the Digital Age: Challenges and Opportunities for Legal Practitioners in East Africa.
Written by Brownie Ebal and Victoria Nakiyimba.
On 10th April 2025, the East African Law Society hosted a webinar titled “Navigating Business and Human Rights in the Digital Age,” exploring the evolving relationship between business practices, technological advancement, and human rights within the East African legal context.
Nasanga Aki from IBIS Consulting provided a compelling historical backdrop, tracing the development of corporate accountability from the aftermath of World War II to the adoption of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. She emphasized how the digital age intensifies challenges for corporations, many of which now possess vast influence over societies. Aki underscored the importance of applying existing frameworks more consistently while also adapting them to the digital realities of today. Her insights stressed that legal practitioners must not only be aware of corporate responsibility norms but actively enforce and evolve them within their jurisdictions.
Dr. Hannah Muzee, Lecturer Kyambogo University, turned the spotlight on the gender digital divide, highlighting the disproportionate impact of digital threats and online harassment on women. She pointed out that while technology holds promise, it often reinforces existing inequalities if not intentionally designed and regulated. Dr. Muzee called for increased government responsiveness, particularly through policies that ensure equitable digital access and the promotion of digital literacy among women. Legal practitioners, she argued, must be at the forefront of advocating for protective digital legislation and inclusive governance frameworks.
Njile Bwana of KKB Attorneys at Law tackled the practical realities that legal professionals face as they engage with business and human rights in the digital age. She identified key areas of opportunity in the growing digital economy, such as advising on data protection, digital compliance, and responsible tech development. However, she also cautioned that lawyers must contend with weak enforcement mechanisms, jurisdictional complexity, and a general lack of training in digital law. Bwana emphasized the need for strategic collaboration among legal professionals in the region, pointing to cross-border frameworks as a means to strengthen accountability and harmonize practice.
Throughout the session, a clear theme emerged: the legal profession must evolve alongside technology. The digital age offers powerful tools for growth and social impact but also introduces risks that demand urgent legal attention. The speakers collectively highlighted that historical knowledge, gender awareness, and forward-looking training are all essential for lawyers seeking to remain effective in a rapidly changing landscape.
Ultimately, the webinar underscored the growing role of legal practitioners in shaping not only compliance frameworks but also the ethical future of business in East Africa. By embracing collaboration, advocating for inclusive policies, and deepening their understanding of digital environments, lawyers can help ensure that technological progress does not come at the expense of human rights.
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Article 49: Elevate Your Career: A Transformational Coaching Experience for Professionals
Written by Adv. Brownie Ebal
On Saturday, May 3rd, 2025, an empowering 13-week journey began for professionals committed to intentional growth and strategic career advancement. Elevate Your Career is more than just a coaching program—it represents a mindset shift, a structured support system, and a deliberate process for stepping into the next level with clarity and confidence.
Coaching, in its essence, is a results-driven relationship designed to help individuals bridge the gap between where they are and where they want to be. It thrives on repetition, active learning, and accountability. It unlocks potential by clarifying direction, shaping bold goals, and building the confidence to act on them.
The program is led by renowned speaker and coach Pepe Minambo of Motivation Hub Limited, alongside transformational speaker Robert Burale. Motivation Hub Limited is a leading coaching and training firm that equips professionals with tools for personal mastery, career growth, and leadership development. Their work empowers individuals to transform their mindset,
communicate with impact and lead with purpose.Many of us have grown up with the belief that “your work will speak for you.” While doing excellent work is important, this program highlights a critical lesson: people need to know what you are doing for opportunities to find you. Through intentional visibility, you attract the right connections and open new doors. I have seen this truth in my own journey—sharing insights and achievements on LinkedIn has given me a competitive edge as a lawyer, leading to invitations to speak at events like the East African Law Society (EALS), present papers, winning the Global Leadership in Legal Services Award, among others.
So, this is a challenge to everyone reading this: Do not shrink your brilliance. Showcase your skills, share your value, and speak up about your journey. Visibility is not about ego—it is about positioning. When you show up boldly, you create space for elevation, recognition, and greater impact
This Philosophy is at the heart of the Elevate Your Career Journey. The 13-week experience includes:- Weekly online sessions focused on personal development and career strategy
- In-person workshops designed to foster networking and shared growth
- Active learning through audiobooks, videos, and following thought leaders online
- Regular reflection and thought leadership through articles on LinkedIn or personal blogs
- Practical coaching frameworks such as the 5 Whys technique and content calendar planning
One of the core principles emphasized is visibility. As Pepe Minambo puts it, “Elevate your career, you need visibility. Do not be a spectator on LinkedIn.” Sharing what you learn with colleagues or supervisors, writing consistently, and showcasing progress builds credibility and attracts new opportunities.
Repetition is central to transformation. Writing regularly, reflecting deeply, and applying insights consistently helps internalize new ways of thinking and working. Visibility is not vanity—it is strategy. When growth is seen, it inspires support and opens doors.
Throughout the sessions, compelling truths about career advancement were shared—truths that apply across industries and professions. Among them are the “10 Brutal Rules of Career Advancement”:- Perception often beats performance
- Real decisions are made behind closed doors
- Allies matter more than titles
- Reputation is the most valuable currency
- Loyalty is often positional, not personal
- Power protects power
- Silence is a strategy
- Information is currency
- Not everyone wants to see you win—discern what to share and what to hold back
- Politics are unavoidable
“A slow decision is worse than a bad decision,” noted Jeff Bezos—a reminder of the value of clarity and confident action. In a competitive world, those who grow quickly are those who show up consistently, speak boldly, and invest in continuous learning. High-level professionals gravitate toward others operating at that same level of excellence.
To grow, one must walk with giants. The program emphasizes four key figures to seek out:- Mentors who offer guidance
- Models who offer inspiration
- Coaches who provide challenge and direction
- Sponsors who advocate behind the scenes
These figures form a career support system, offering visibility, practical advice, and strategic elevation.
At its core, Elevate Your Career is a powerful reminder that career success does not happen by chance—it is built through clarity, consistency, and community. With the right mindset, structure, and influence, it is possible to shift from potential to performance, and from being overlooked to being seen.
You elevate yourself by standing on the shoulders of giants. And when you rise, don’t rise alone—bring others with you.
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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