Leadership Program

The Leadership Program provides youth an opportunity to critically explore and unpack topics such as: poverty, caste, religion, politics, environment and gender inequality. They explore these issues through lectures, workshops, poetry, music and theatre. Through this program youth build confidence, critical thinking skills, communication skills and other core skills that serve as a foundation for long-term success.

Ezhuval is a specialized version of the Leadership Program aimed at helping young women develop a stronger sense of their own aspirations and ambition.

Sujeni, Age 24

"In our society a lot of women are struggling in a conservative system. We are told how to walk and how to behave. But that should change and we have to change it. The Ezhuval program will help young women think critically and think about things from various perspectives - for example through considering biological, patriarchal and societal factors."

Lasintha, Age 23

"Ezhuval was a turning point in my life. After 2 weeks in the program [Ezhuval] I got to know myself and reflected on “Who am I? What do I want? What are my strengths and weaknesses?”. I think I’m a good example of someone who has benefitted from this program. If I did not participate in this program, I am not sure that I could be here in Bangladesh studying at Asian University for Women. I am far from my family and I am confidently making all the decisions — I am the decision maker in my life. "