YES Bangladesh, with support from the Y-Moves Project of Plan International Bangladesh, convened young people, government officials, and gender experts to inspire collective action against gender-based violence and promote gender equality through dialogue, learning, and youth leadership.
On 13 September 2025, Youth Engagement for Sustainability (YES) Bangladesh organized “Act for Change: Youth Voices Against Gender-Based Violence” at Lakeshore Heights, Gulshan, with the generous support of the Y-Moves Project of Plan International Bangladesh. The initiative brought together young people, government officials, development practitioners, and gender experts to promote dialogue, challenge harmful gender norms, and inspire collective action to prevent gender-based violence (GBV). The programme commenced with welcome remarks from Fahmida Haque Nishi, Executive Director of YES Bangladesh. The event featured an insightful panel discussion moderated by Shaila Sanjida Ahmedahman Ema, creating a platform for experts and young people to exchange perspectives on preventing GBV, promoting gender equality, and strengthening safeguarding mechanisms.
The distinguished panel included:
Wahida Banu, Founder & Executive Director, Aparajeyo Bangladesh
Taheatul Jannat Remi, Founder, Nondita Surokkha
Md. Rubayet Hossain, Safeguarding and Compliance Management Professional & Policy Advisor
Sanjida Ahmed, Advisor – Gender Diversity, Inclusion & Protection, Plan International Bangladesh
The programme was honored by the presence of:
Chief Guest: Kazi Golam Towsif, Additional Secretary and Director General, Department of Women Affairs, Bangladesh
Special Guest: Kazi Nusrat Edib Luna, Deputy Police Commissioner, Dhaka Metropolitan Police
Before the main event, YES Bangladesh conducted a youth survey and a preparatory workshop to better understand participants’ perspectives and strengthen youth engagement in discussions on gender-based violence. The findings informed the dialogue and encouraged evidence-based conversations throughout the programme.The event concluded with a thought-provoking thematic drama and a powerful dance performance, both emphasizing the urgent need for collective action to eliminate gender-based violence and create safer, more inclusive communities. A vote of thanks was delivered by Ayesha Anika, Project Officer of the Y-Moves Project.Through this initiative, YES Bangladesh reaffirmed its commitment to empowering young people, challenging harmful social norms, and working with partners to build a Bangladesh where equality, dignity, safety, and respect are ensured for everyone.
