In promotion of its absolute commitment to producing morally upright, intellectually competent, and globally competitive graduates, Mountain Top University (MTU) organised a comprehensive training programme on personal branding and professional etiquette aimed at preparing students for excellence in their academic pursuits and future careers.
The event, held on 13 June 2026, brought together distinguished professionals, including Oxford University alumna Mrs Yvonne Ebbi, renowned corporate brand consultant Mr Kenneth Uche, and other experts, who engaged students on the principles and practical applications of personal branding, corporate identity, and professional etiquette required to thrive in today's highly competitive global environment.
The initiative reflects the University's dedication to nurturing graduates who are not only academically sound but also possess the character, leadership qualities, and professional competencies needed to make meaningful contributions to their communities, Nigeria, and the international society.
The Core of Personal Branding: Authenticity and Relationships
Speaking during the training, Mr Kenneth Uche described personal branding as the perception and impression people form about an individual based on their interactions, behaviours, values, and consistency over time. He explained that these perceptions ultimately shape an individual's reputation and influence opportunities in both personal and professional life.
He encouraged the students to embrace authenticity while building their personal brands, stressing that genuine self-expression enables individuals to identify problems, recognise opportunities, and create innovative solutions that distinguish them in their respective fields. According to him, authenticity is a powerful asset that fosters trust, credibility, and long-term professional success.
Mr Uche further emphasised the importance of cultivating healthy interpersonal relationships, noting that the impressions people leave on others significantly contribute to the development and sustainability of a positive personal brand. He urged students to intentionally build relationships founded on respect, empathy, and integrity, as these qualities enhance both personal and professional influence.
The Six Fundamental Laws of Personal Branding
During his presentation, the branding expert outlined six fundamental laws of personal branding, which he described as indispensable principles for anyone aspiring to build a reputable and enduring professional identity:
1. The Law of Demand and Supply (Specialisation): Mr Uche advised students to identify a clearly defined niche or area of expertise rather than attempting to appeal to everyone. He explained that specialisation increases value, reduces competition, and establishes credibility. Illustrating his point, he remarked:
“A diamond is rare, while stones are found everywhere. Be a diamond; don't be everywhere.”
2. Integrity: He described this as one of the rarest yet most valuable attributes in modern society. He challenged the students to make honesty, accountability, and ethical conduct the cornerstone of their personal and professional lives, noting that integrity builds trust and earns lasting respect.
3. Time Management: This underscores the significance of using time wisely. He reminded participants that time is the only resource that cannot be recovered once lost and encouraged them to develop disciplined habits that prioritise productivity, excellence, and continuous improvement.
4. Innovation: Mr Uche urged students to distinguish themselves by introducing fresh ideas, creative thinking, and practical solutions within their fields of specialisation. He noted that the global marketplace consistently rewards individuals who bring unique value and originality to their professions.
5. Association: This focuses on the influence of relationships and social networks. He advised students to be deliberate in choosing their friends, mentors, and professional circles, emphasising that the quality of one's associations often shapes public perception, personal development, and career opportunities.
6. Consistency: According to him, sustained commitment to one's goals and values is essential for building credibility and achieving long-term success. He reminded the audience that remarkable accomplishments are rarely the result of isolated efforts but are instead products of consistent discipline and perseverance, concluding that:
“consistency will always outperform intensity.”
Digital Visibility and Workplace Realities
In addition, Mr Uche encouraged the students to cultivate a culture of action rather than merely discussing ideas. He stressed that vision without execution yields little impact and that meaningful achievements come from diligently implementing well-conceived plans.
Addressing the subject of digital visibility, he explained that building a sustainable online presence requires patience, consistency, and a long-term strategic outlook. He encouraged aspiring professionals to continually create value and maintain authenticity across digital platforms, noting that many successful brands were built gradually through persistence and deliberate effort.
He also observed that one of the major challenges confronting many highly skilled professionals in Nigeria is inadequate remuneration despite their expertise. Consequently, he urged participants to intentionally build credible personal brands that communicate competence, professionalism, and value, thereby enhancing their career prospects and earning potential.
Speaking further on the significance of etiquette education, Mr Uche noted that professional etiquette has become increasingly important in today's interconnected world. He explained that the primary objective of such training is to instil discipline, civility, respect, and moral values that will enable young people to become responsible citizens and effective leaders capable of contributing meaningfully to national development.
Etiquette as a Tool for Nation-Building
Delivering her presentation, Mrs Yvonne Ebbi stated that she has devoted herself to etiquette education as a strategic tool for nation-building and character development. She explained that her mission is to equip young Nigerians with the behavioural competencies, social intelligence, and professional standards necessary to succeed in diverse environments and positively influence society.
According to her, the ultimate vision is to ensure that students across Nigeria understand appropriate conduct, embrace positive values, and cultivate attitudes that foster excellence, integrity, and responsible citizenship. She emphasised that etiquette extends beyond manners and encompasses respect, emotional intelligence, effective communication, confidence, and professionalism.
Mrs Ebbi further highlighted that individuals who possess strong etiquette skills are better positioned to excel academically, build meaningful relationships, secure employment opportunities, and represent themselves and their institutions with distinction on both national and international platforms.
Summary of the Training Program
The extensive training programme covered a broad range of subjects designed to prepare students for successful careers and impactful leadership roles, including:
Personal branding and professional image management
Communication skills and spoken English proficiency
Emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills
Impression management and leadership presence
Social, business, and workplace etiquette
Workplace ethics and essential professional competencies