"Not charity, but change"
"Not charity, but change"
Participation in the Policy Study Circle in the Bangladesh National Parliament
It was a great privilege and honor for me to participate in the Policy Study Circle on “Bangladesh National Parliament” held on 20 September 2023 at the Parliament Members’ Club conference room inside the National Parliament (Sangsad Bhaban). I joined the event as the Youth MP representing Lalmonirhat-01 constituency. The session was conducted by Honourable Member of Parliament Barrister Shameem Haider Patwary. The event was organized by the Bangladesh Youth Mock Parliament (BYMP) with the support of the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN). Among the 300 parliamentary constituencies, only 30 Youth MPs were selected to join this important gathering, and I was proud to be one of them.
Barrister Shameem Haider Patwary, Member of Parliament from Gaibandha-1 constituency, led the session and engaged in an extensive discussion with young participants from different parts of the country. The discussion topics included the history of the parliament, parliamentary democracy, legal affairs, parliamentary politics, youth participation, and future challenges. He encouraged young people to become knowledgeable, thoughtful, and dedicated to serving the people. He emphasized that there is no alternative to reading books, being politically aware, and working for the welfare of the citizens.
It is worth mentioning that the Bangladesh Youth Mock Parliament has been active since 2014 with the aim of developing leadership among youth, promoting parliamentary practice, and inspiring young Bangladeshis to contribute to national development. GAIN is supporting youth leaders and BYMP through initiatives such as the Act4Food campaign, policy study circles, training, and Constituency Development Action Projects (CDAP) to build capacity, strengthen community development, and ensure meaningful youth engagement in policy spaces. In addition, GAIN supports the organization and active participation of youth representatives in BYMP’s parliamentary sessions at both national and divisional levels, fostering meaningful dialogue with policymakers.
“National Election 2026 and Citizens’ Expectations”
A discussion titled “National Election 2026 and Citizens’ Expectations” was organized by the Citizen’s Platform for SDGs, Bangladesh.
With the goal of building a just, equitable, and accountable Bangladesh, the Citizen’s Platform has developed a “Citizen Manifesto” based on evidence-based policy analysis and broad citizen participation. As part of this process, consultative meetings were held in all eight divisional cities of the country, along with 15 university-based youth workshops, through which the opinions and recommendations of nearly 1,500 local stakeholders and young people from 35 districts were gathered. In addition, more than 150 national and grassroots partner organizations were actively involved in the process.
In this context, on 13 January 2026 at 10:00 AM, the Citizen Manifesto was formally presented at a discussion held at the Carnival Hall, Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center (BCFCC), Agargaon, Dhaka. National-level political leaders participated in the event, where they were briefed on the outcomes of the regional consultative meetings and youth workshops. They also listened to the perspectives of more than 300 participants who had come from different parts of the country.
This discussion further enriched my understanding of citizens’ expectations, democratic participation, and the role of youth in policymaking. As a conscious citizen and young participant, being part of such an important national-level dialogue has been a valuable chapter in my learning journey.
Anti-drug awareness meeting
Drugs destroy individuals, and since Lalmonirhat is a border district, drugs are easily available here.
However, the youth, including school and college students, can fall victim to the harmful effects of drugs. Concerned about the students of my district, I decided to take the initiative to create anti-drug awareness among them. To ensure that the devastating impact of drugs does not consume them, I began organizing awareness seminars and discussions in schools and colleges.
Realizing that this initiative could not be carried out alone, I shared my plan with Mr. Khairul Bashar, the then Assistant Director of the Department of Narcotics Control in Lalmonirhat. He appreciated my initiative and assured me of his full support, even agreeing to personally attend any seminar I organized.
Subsequently, I organized an anti-drug seminar at the Church of God High School for all its students and teachers. Mr. Khairul Bashar attended the seminar and spoke about the harmful effects of drugs. After the discussion, a quiz competition was held, and geometry boxes, scales, and pens were distributed as gifts to all participants and students of the school.
So far, I have independently organized anti-drug seminars in approximately 23 educational institutions in Lalmonirhat Sadar Upazila, with a total participation of 5,000 students. These efforts are ongoing, and I continue to work towards raising awareness about the dangers of drugs among the youth of my district.
Transparency International Bangladesh of YES Camp
The three-day YES Camp 2024, organized by TIB, was held from February 17 to 19, 2024, at the RDRS building in Rangpur. I served as the host of the cultural program during the camp. Representing the Lalmonirhat Committee of Concerned Citizens (CCC), I delivered a speech as a YES member and team leader, sharing thoughts on youth perspectives regarding corruption, poverty, and injustice.
Additionally, I hosted an anti-corruption talk show held during the YES Camp, contributing to the event's focus on empowering youth to take a stand against corruption.
Participating in the 20th Annual Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum (BIGF)
Participating in the 20th Annual Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum (BIGF) is truly an honor for me. The forum is being held from October 30 to November 1 at the International Mother Language Institute, Dhaka, over three inspiring days.
Renowned IT experts, policymakers, researchers, and young tech leaders from across the country are gathering here to exchange ideas on internet policy, digital rights, and the future of technology.
The Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum (BIGF) stands as an inspiring platform that demonstrates how a developing nation can successfully adapt internet governance within a democratic framework and local realities. Established in alignment with the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (UN IGF) principles in 2006, BIGF has now become an inclusive, transparent, and multi-stakeholder dialogue platform. It not only safeguards Bangladesh’s digital interests but also plays a significant role in shaping global digital policy and discourse.
With active participation from government agencies, civil society, the private sector, academia, media, and technology experts, the forum ensures that Bangladesh’s digital policies and laws remain aligned with national contexts while reflecting international best practices.
Session on Communication Gap
On 29 October 2025, I had the wonderful opportunity to conduct an interactive session with the students of Panchrukhi Begum Anwara Degree College, Narayanganj.
The session focused on “Communication Gap” — a crucial aspect of human interaction and understanding. Through a fun and engaging game, students learned how communication gaps can arise and how they can be effectively minimized in daily life.
As a student of Journalism and Media Communication at Green University of Bangladesh, it was truly an honor and an inspiring experience to share my knowledge and interact with enthusiastic young minds
Meeting on Upcoming Plans Green Film and Theatre Club
On 27 October 2025, a meeting was held by the Green Film and Theatre Club, one of the central clubs of Green University of Bangladesh, to discuss the club’s upcoming activities and future plans.
The session became lively and engaging with the presence of the club’s honorable moderator, Mr. Mahadi Muntasir, whose insightful guidance and encouragement inspired all members to share creative ideas and visions for the club’s next steps.
With collective enthusiasm and teamwork, the members expressed their commitment to bring exciting projects and cultural initiatives in the near future.
We look forward to achieving great things together through our shared passion for film, theatre, and storytelling.
An advocacy meeting in community clinic
An advocacy meeting titled "Promoting Youth and Adolescent-Friendly Services in Community Clinics" was organized at the Chinipara Community Clinic in Lalmonirhat Sadar to expand and improve the quality of youth- and adolescent-friendly services.
The meeting was arranged by the National Youth Forum, Lalmonirhat District, with the support of Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO). Present at the event were Mr. Md. Jamal Hossain, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the National Youth Forum; Mr. Md. Shahid Islam Sujon, President of the Lalmonirhat District Branch; local community leaders, government officials, local youth and adolescents, and members of the National Youth Forum.
Speakers at the meeting emphasized the importance of ensuring accessibility, confidentiality, and the availability of health services for youth and adolescents. They highlighted the need for increased awareness and effective measures to address issues related to mental health, reproductive health, and other health challenges faced by adolescents.
Participants shared their opinions and discussed strategies to raise awareness among the community on these issues. The advocacy meeting served as a platform for awareness-building and solution-focused initiatives, culminating in the development of a structured plan to promote youth- and adolescent-friendly services in community clinics.
Improving SRHR in Dhaka Project School campaign
July 27, 2025, a school campaign was successfully conducted at Mirpur Imperial School through a joint initiative of SERAC-Bangladesh and Ipas Bangladesh. This campaign was organized under the #ISRHRD project, with active participation from our enthusiastic youth volunteers.
The key objectives were to raise awareness on: Adolescent sexual and reproductive health, Menstrual hygiene management, Gender-based violence. The event concluded with an engaging quiz competition, which sparked great enthusiasm among the participants.
This initiative was supported by #GlobalAffairsCanada and implemented with the assistance of the HealthBridge Foundation of Canada. Let awareness spread, health be ensured, and a violence-free society be built - this is the goal we strive toward.
The Democracy Olympiad
The Democracy Olympiad, organized by The Hunger Project, was held on January 31, 2024, at Lalmonirhat Government College. Students from several colleges in Lalmonirhat Sadar participated in the event, where they gathered to discuss democracy and social responsibility and share their experiences.
Through various team-based and individual activities, participants enhanced their skills and gained practical experience on the importance of democratic practices.
The Democracy Olympiad is a competitive event designed to raise awareness among young people about democracy, civic rights, ethical leadership, and their role in social change. It typically includes debates, quizzes, workshops, and other interactive activities to encourage youth engagement in democratic practices.
CSO PVE Capacity Building in Bangladesh & Sri Lanka
Youth Orientation on PVE Date: 25 January 2022 , Venue: RDRS Bangladesh, Lalmonirhat "Youth Orientation on Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE)" was a capacity-building session organized under the CSO PVE Capacity Building in Bangladesh & Sri Lanka initiative. The program aimed to enhance the knowledge and leadership skills of young people in countering violent extremism through awareness, dialogue, and community engagement.
As a participant, I had the opportunity to: Learn about the concepts of PVE and its importance in the current global and national context. Understand how youth can play a proactive role in peacebuilding, social resilience, and preventing radicalization at community level. Take part in interactive group discussions, case studies and practical exercises focused on critical thinking, conflict transformation, and inclusive participation. Network with civil society actors, youth leaders, and development practitioners working on peace and social cohesion initiatives. Gain insights into regional collaboration, especially the shared experiences between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in tackling violent extremism through community-based approaches.
This orientation helped strengthen my vision of youth-led change and inspired me to integrate peace, tolerance, and social harmony in my future projects.
Launching Ceremony of SUN Youth Network Bangladesh
On 8th December 2024, with a promise to transform the nutritional landscape of Bangladesh, SUN Youth Network Bangladesh has been launched officially. This youth network has been established to mobilize young leaders in the mission of addressing malnutrition across the nation.
The SUN initiative aims to empower youth with advocacy skills to combat malnutrition while highlighting nutrition's role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) is the secretariat for this network under the leadership of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare aligning with different ministries and networks.
In a bid to make a malnutrition-free country, youths will act as nutrition ambassadors by raising awareness on safe foods and nutrition across the country including educational institutions. The network members will also advocate and motivate the government and businessmen for ensuring safe foods and nutrition, which are linked to good health and wellbeing.
Md Saidur Rahman, Secretary, Health Services Division, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, attended the launching ceremony as the chief guest, while Md. Rezaul Maksud Jahedi, Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports, was present as guest of honor.
Chaired by Sheikh Momena Moni, Additional Secretary and SUN Focal, Health Services Division, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Md Mamunur Rashid, Joint Secretary (Wh), Health Services Division, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Dr. Rudaba Khondker, Country Director, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) Bangladesh, among others, spoke on the occasion.
A Validation Workshop on the Food Systems Youth Leadership Training Module
A Validation Workshop on the Food Systems Youth Leadership Training Module was successfully held on March 20, 2025, at the Food Planning & Monitoring Unit (FPMU) office, Dhaka. Organized by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) and the SUN Youth Network Bangladesh in collaboration with the Food Planning & Monitoring Unit, the workshop brought together youth leaders, government officials, and key stakeholders to review the training module and strategize collective youth-led actions to transform food systems in Bangladesh.
The day began with opening remarks from Md. Mahbubur Rahman, Director General of FPMU, who welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of youth engagement in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He reflected on Bangladesh's progress in food systems transformation and the pivotal role young people must play in accelerating that journey.
Mehedi Hasan Bappy from GAIN followed with a presentation on the objectives of the consultation. He shared an overview of the Food Systems Youth Leadership Training initiative, spotlighting impactful school and community-based actions already being led by trained youth champions.
In a keynote address, Md. Mamunur Rashid, Joint Secretary of the Health Services Division, highlighted the urgent need for capacity building, youth-driven innovation, and cross-sector collaboration, especially given the country's shifting demographics and growing food and nutrition security challenges. A detailed walkthrough of the training module was then presented, outlining its content, structure, and delivery methods. The session sparked valuable feedback from participants, who appreciated the opportunity to contribute to shaping a more inclusive and action-oriented training program.
The first half of the workshop closed with reflections on the importance of fostering youth leadership in promoting healthier diets and encouraging active participation in food systems transformation. In the second half, youth participants engaged in interactive group discussions, where they shared insights from their training experiences, identified key challenges, and proposed innovative ideas for scaling up collective action in their communities.
The workshop served as a meaningful platform to validate the efforts of youth leaders and align on future strategies for building a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable food system powered by the voices, passion, and commitment of Bangladesh's young changemakers.
Workshop on Food Literacy, Healthy Eating, and Front-of-Pack Labeling (FOPL)
coordination workshop with youth on healthy eating habits, food literacy, and food awareness policy was held on 17 May 2026, organized by the Health Sector of . Youth representatives from various organizations across Dhaka participated in the workshop.
Speakers highlighted that rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles are increasing people’s dependence on packaged and processed foods. As a result, non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure are rising, creating serious public health concerns.
The discussion also emphasized the importance of “FOPL” (Front-of-Pack Labeling). This is a system where nutritional information and warning labels are clearly displayed on the front of food packages. Through this approach, consumers can easily identify foods containing excessive sugar, salt, or unhealthy fats and make more informed food choices.
Facilitator Experience with State University of Bangladesh
From 09-12 October 2025, I had the opportunity to serve as a Facilitator at the “Food Systems Youth Leadership Training 2025” held at State University of Bangladesh, South Purbachal, Dhaka. The three-day training focused on food security, nutrition, sustainable food systems, and youth leadership development through various discussions and interactive activities.
As a facilitator, my primary responsibility was to actively engage participants in different sessions, group activities, and discussions while creating a positive and participatory learning environment. Working with young people from different parts of the country gave me the opportunity to closely observe their ideas, creativity, and strong interest in social change.
This training not only provided me with valuable experience as a facilitator, but also helped me develop practical skills in leadership, communication, coordination, and team management. The active participation and innovative ideas of the youth participants inspired me to become more involved in future social and development initiatives.
I believe that the active participation of young people is essential to ensuring food security and sustainable development. Education, awareness, and effective leadership can be the driving forces behind meaningful change.
Facilitator Experience at FoSYL , University of Chittagong
From 17-19 December 2025, I had the opportunity to participate in the “Food Systems Youth Leadership Training 2025” held at University of Chittagong. This training was a truly memorable and enriching experience for me, as it was my first visit to the University of Chittagong. The beautiful hill-surrounded campus and natural environment left a lasting impression on me.
The three-day training focused on food security, nutrition, sustainable food systems, and youth leadership development through interactive sessions, group activities, and discussions. Every moment of the program provided valuable opportunities for learning, sharing experiences, and connecting with young people from different regions.
The green and scenic campus, hilly roads, and vibrant university atmosphere made the experience even more special. Visiting a new place and working with participants from diverse backgrounds helped me not only gain knowledge but also understand the importance of teamwork, friendship, and collaboration.
This training enhanced my practical skills in leadership, communication, coordination, and problem-solving. It also encouraged me to think more deeply about the important role young people can play in promoting sustainable development and improving food systems.
My experience at the University of Chittagong was more than just attending a training program; it was a journey of discovering a new place, meeting inspiring people, and creating meaningful memories that I will always cherish.
Facilitator Experience at FoSYL, Carmichael College, Rangpur
From 2-4 December 2025, I participated in the “Food Systems Youth Leadership Training 2025” held at Carmichael College, Rangpur. This training was a meaningful and enjoyable experience where I had the opportunity to spend valuable time with young people from my own division.
The training focused on food security, nutrition, sustainable food systems, and youth leadership development through interactive sessions, group discussions, and team activities. Throughout the program, participants actively shared their ideas, experiences, and perspectives on creating positive change within their communities.
One of the most memorable parts of this experience was building stronger connections with youths from different districts of the Rangpur division. The friendly environment, teamwork, and shared learning moments made the training both inspiring and enjoyable.
Participating in this training helped me improve my communication, leadership, and collaboration skills. It also strengthened my understanding of the important role young people can play in promoting sustainable development and food system transformation.
Overall, this training at Carmichael College was not only an educational experience but also a memorable journey filled with learning, networking, and meaningful moments with fellow youths from my region.
Facilitator Experience at FoSYL, Bagerhat Chapter
From 17–19 October 2025, I had the opportunity to serve as a Facilitator at the “Food Systems Youth Leadership Training” held in Bagerhat. The three-day training was organized to empower young people with knowledge and leadership skills related to food security, nutrition, safe food practices, and sustainable food systems.
As a facilitator, my role was to guide participants through different interactive sessions, group discussions, and practical activities. Working closely with the youth participants allowed me to witness their enthusiasm, creativity, and strong commitment toward creating positive change in their communities. Their active participation made the entire training environment energetic, collaborative, and inspiring.
Throughout the program, participants learned about food security, reducing food waste, local food production, awareness building, and youth leadership development. It was inspiring to see young people share ideas and develop solutions for building safer, more nutritious, and sustainable food systems within their local communities.
The training was honored by the presence of several distinguished guests, including:
S. M. Mostafizur Rahman, Upazila Nirbahi Officer, Bagerhat Sadar, Dr. Pradip Kumar Bokshi, Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer, Bagerhat Sadar, Professor Sheikh Ziaul Islam, Principal, Government Prafulla Chandra College, Bagerhat, Shamim Ahmed, Safe Food Officer (Acting), Bangladesh Food Safety Authority, Bagerhat District Office
Their valuable insights and encouragement added great significance to the training experience and motivated participants to become future leaders in their communities.
I was also proud to contribute to this initiative through the Independent Bangla Youth Library as a co-organizing partner. This experience strengthened my skills in facilitation, communication, leadership, coordination, and teamwork. More importantly, it reinforced my belief that young people have the power to lead meaningful social change when provided with the right knowledge, platform, and opportunities.
This training was not only a professional experience for me as a facilitator, but also a memorable journey of learning, collaboration, and inspiring interactions with passionate young changemakers.
Facilitator Experience at FoSYL, Azizul Haque Government College, Bogura
From 12–14 December 2025, I served as a Facilitator at the “Food Systems Youth Leadership Training 2025” held at Azizul Haque Government College. The training focused on food security, nutrition, sustainable food systems, and youth leadership development.
As a facilitator, I guided participants through group discussions, interactive sessions, and team activities while encouraging active participation and collaborative learning. Working with passionate young people from different backgrounds was both inspiring and meaningful.
This experience helped me strengthen my leadership, communication, coordination, and facilitation skills. It also reinforced my belief that youth participation is essential for creating a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future.
Campaign Launched to Advance a Just and Sustainable Energy Transition
The month-long 'Renewables Now Campaign' was inaugurated on September 12, 2026, at the CIRDAP International Conference Center in Dhaka.
Jointly organized by Dhara (We Protect the Earth) and Waterkeepers Bangladesh, the campaign has been launched with the participation of 37 organizations.
The initiative aims to raise public awareness and support for a just and inclusive transition to renewable energy. It also seeks to strengthen the necessary policies, investment, coordination, and public engagement required to achieve a renewable energy generation capacity of 10,000 megawatts by 2030.
Youth Voices for Better Food Choices & Public Health
On September 19, 2026, I had the opportunity to be part of the "Youth Voice for Front-of-Pack Labelling Debate Festival 2026", organized jointly by the Health and Nutrition Sector of Dhaka Ahsania Mission and the Dhaka University Debating Society at the University of Dhaka.
Students from eight universities came together to discuss the importance of Front-of-Pack Labelling (FOPL) and its role in helping consumers easily understand the levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats in packaged foods.
The discussions highlighted several important issues, including:
Consumers' right to clear and accessible food information
Healthy food choices and nutrition awareness
Prevention of non-communicable diseases
The need for effective FOPL regulations
Meaningful youth participation in public health advocacy
The event reinforced an important message: young people can play a meaningful role in creating awareness, shaping public discussions, and advocating for a healthier food environment.
I am grateful to be part of a platform where youth voices, evidence-based discussion, and public health advocacy came together.
Monthly Club Meeting - Leo Club of Dhaka Uttara West
The monthly club meeting of Leo Club of Dhaka Uttara West for the Leo Year 2026-2027 was held on 15 August 2026 at 4:00 PM at the Lions Tower, District 315B1 Office, Begum Rokeya Sarani, Dhaka.
The meeting focused on the club's ongoing activities, upcoming plans, member participation, and various social and humanitarian initiatives. Discussions also emphasized strengthening communication among members and developing leadership skills among young volunteers.
The meeting provided an opportunity for members to exchange ideas, strengthen teamwork, and contribute to the club's future initiatives.
It is hoped that Leo Club of Dhaka Uttara West will continue its journey of youth-led leadership, community service, and positive social change.
Facilitator — EcoGrow Youth Leadership Training 2026
Served as a Facilitator at the EcoGrow Youth Leadership Training 5 July 2026 at Carmichael College, Rangpur 2026, organized by Youth for Earth Bangladesh (YEB) with support from the Department of Environment, Rangpur Divisional Office.
The training brought together 46 young participants and focused on leadership, effective communication, teamwork, emotional intelligence, environmental conservation, and youth engagement in addressing climate change.
As a facilitator, I engaged participants through interactive sessions, group activities, discussions, and collaborative learning. The experience provided an opportunity to share knowledge while also learning from the perspectives, ideas, and enthusiasm of young participants.
This experience strengthened my skills in facilitation, public speaking, communication, teamwork, youth engagement, and environmental advocacy, while deepening my commitment to youth-led climate action.
Content Creators' Capacity Enhancement Session
On 28 August 2026, I had the opportunity to participate in the Content Creators' Capacity Enhancement Session (Residential) under the “Shomotay Tarunno – Youth for Equality” project, held at Hotel Bengal Blueberry, Dhaka. The session was organized collaboratively by Plan International Bangladesh and JAAGO Foundation Trust, with support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The session aimed to strengthen the capacity of emerging content creators to challenge gender stereotypes, promote girls’ and women’s rights, and contribute to reducing violence against women in Bangladesh through meaningful and gender-sensitive content.
Throughout the session, I gained valuable insights into gender stereotypes, girls’ and women’s rights, gender-sensitive content creation, and navigating the digital space as a content creator. The experience also enhanced my understanding of responsible storytelling and how digital content can contribute to creating positive social change.
Overall, the session was a valuable learning experience that strengthened my skills in content creation, gender-sensitive storytelling, communication, and social awareness, while inspiring me to use my creative work to promote equality and contribute to a more inclusive society.
Leo District 315 B1 Installation Program
On 21 August 2026, I had the opportunity to participate as a Leo of Leo Club of Dhaka Uttara West in the Leo District 315 B1 Installation Program, held at the Lions International Foundation Head Office in Agargaon, Dhaka.
The program was a wonderful opportunity to experience more closely the values of the Leo Movement leadership, unity, community service, and the commitment of young people to creating positive change. It brought together Leo members from different clubs, creating a valuable space for interaction, networking, and sharing experiences.
Through this program, I had the opportunity to connect with fellow Leo members, gain new perspectives on leadership and organizational values, and become more inspired to contribute actively to humanitarian and community-focused initiatives.
This experience further strengthened my commitment as a Leo to work for the well-being of society, develop my leadership skills, and contribute to positive change through youth-led community service.