At just 28, Grace Kwaga carries the quiet confidence of someone who has worked through life’s challenges with grace. Her story with FINCA Uganda began not with a formal introduction, but with inspiration from the strong women in her life.

Growing up, Grace often accompanied her grandmother to the bank. She remembers the long, exhausting lines just to withdraw money. It was a tiring process, especially for the elderly. Later, her auntie, Esther Namaganda, who worked with FINCA, introduced her to a simpler, more personal way of banking. That was Grace’s first real encounter with FINCA, a brand that would later play a significant role in shaping her financial journey.

Back then, things were not as easy. Mobile banking was not yet widespread, and as a teenager, Grace couldn’t access her savings without a guardian’s help. It was inconvenient, but she understood the need for those limitations. Today, she looks back on those early experiences with appreciation, knowing they laid the foundation for better financial habits.

Currently, Grace works as an Administrative Officer at Sasa Coffee, a role she balances with her dreams of starting a fashion and tailoring business. She also has plans to return to school while continuing to contribute to her current workplace. But her ambitions are not just fueled by dreams, they’re backed by discipline and smart financial choices.

In 2018, during her final year at university, Grace faced one of her toughest challenges: tuition became scarce. With determination and trust in FINCA, she encouraged her grandmother to take out a school fees loan. That loan helped Grace finish her studies. And since then, she hasn’t looked back.

Grace not only banks with FINCA, she advocates for it. So much so that many of her friends, colleagues, and even some FINCA staff assume she works for the institution. She proudly shares the benefits of her FINCA Smart Account, especially its no-monthly-fees advantage, with anyone who’ll listen. She even took part in FINCA’s 2024 Smart Start Savings Competition, famously known as the Dosh Competition, and won UGX 50,000. It was a proud moment that further fueled her saving culture.

To Grace, FINCA is more than just a financial institution. It’s a community. “The staff are always warm and approachable,” she says with a smile. “You feel like you’re being supported, not just served.”

Grace also supports her family. Using her FINCA savings, she helps her mother with her boutique business. Being raised primarily by her grandmother, she knows firsthand the value of family support, and now, she’s in a position to give back.

Her message to others, especially fellow 28-year-olds navigating adulthood: “Start with however little you have. Don’t wait to have it all figured out. Starting small is still a start, and over time, you’ll reach your goal.”

Grace Kwaga’s journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of starting where you are with what you have. And in her story, FINCA Uganda is not just a chapter, it’s a catalyst.