A project inception meeting on the approved initiative “Future Leaders: Empowering and Building Resilience of Girls and Youths (Space to Lead)” Project was held in Barguna district on 27 January 2026. The meeting brought together government officials and key stakeholders to formally initiate the project and discuss its implementation framework.
Funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) and supported by Plan International Bangladesh, the project will be implemented from October 2025 to December 2028. The initiative focuses on strengthening sexual and reproductive health, youth economic empowerment, early childhood development and education, child and youth leadership, gender and protection, climate change adaptation, and humanitarian support.
The project will be implemented in six unions across two upazilas of Barguna district — Barguna Sadar and Patharghata — by SERAC-Bangladesh in partnership with AVAS, Lal Shobuj Society, and Youth for Change.
The jointly organized meeting took place at the conference room of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office in Barguna. Deputy Director of Local Government Mr. R.M. Selim Shahnewaz attended as the Chief Guest, while Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Mr. Animesh Biswas chaired the session.
Representatives from the Department of Family Planning, Department of Social Services, Department of Women Affairs, the Secondary Education Office, and the Upazila Nirbahi Officer of Barguna Sadar attended as special guests. Upazila-level officials, Union Parishad secretaries, NGO representatives, teachers, religious leaders, SERAC-Bangladesh volunteers, and media personnel were also present.
Among the participants were Project Coordinator Md. Shafiullah Limon and Advocacy and Capacity Development Officer Robiul Islam from SERAC-Bangladesh, along with representatives from AVAS, Lal Shobuj Society, and Youth for Change.
The meeting was moderated by Ms. Sadia Islam, Program Coordinator of Youth for Change. A comprehensive project overview was presented by Ms. Mahbuba Akter, Project Coordinator at AVAS.
In his welcome remarks, Md. Selim Mia, Deputy Director (Program) of SERAC-Bangladesh, highlighted the organization’s previous experience implementing the Sukhi Jibon, AFP, and Youth Catalyst projects. He emphasized that the VPL model has proven effective in strengthening adolescent-friendly health services and noted that ensuring reproductive health and rights for adolescents requires meaningful youth participation. He further stressed that empowering young people and strengthening youth leadership will significantly contribute to expanding development initiatives in Barguna.
The chief guest, chairperson, and other distinguished participants appreciated the objectives of the project and assured their full cooperation for its successful implementation.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment among all stakeholders to collaboratively support the empowerment and resilience of girls and youth in the district.
