Lakshan Sanjana, Analyst, Equity Commodity Derivatives, Maybank GO Ahead | Challenge 2017 Global Finalist
For me the Maybank GO Ahead. Challenge (MGAC) was an eye-opening experience, filled with both jubilant and humanising moments. I remember joining MGAC 2017 as a participant during my second year of university, going through the various levels of the competition and being challenged both mentally and physically. From running our own renewable energy start-up to an excursion in a fishing village north of KL, MGAC 2017 was truly a memorable one.
Being an international student in Malaysia, I was proud to receive an offer to join the highly coveted Global Maybank Apprentice Programme (GMAP) – Maybank’s flagship management trainee programme, at the conclusion of MGAC 2017.
Having joined Maybank upon the completion of my degree, my journey came full circle when I was offered a role as a case designer within the Organising Committee for MGAC 2019. Themed #ChallengeofChoice, MGAC was redefined in 2019 through gamification and provided the participants with an avenue to showcase their talents and capabilities. Throughout the various stages of the competition, participants were given the opportunity to design their own experience thus adding greater depth to MGAC 2019 as each decision they took would have led them down a different path.
My biggest takeaway from being a part of the Organising Committee for MGAC 2019 was the importance of having strong relationships within and outside of Maybank. The saying “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with” rings true to me as they have inspired and guided me to be a better version of myself. A good relationship with my leaders who have mentored, guided, and eased my transition into the working world had also been pivotal in getting me through the tough times at work.
