BRAC’s Carnival of Change 2025 began with a showcase of youth-led ideas, innovations and social initiatives aimed at driving positive change. More than 250 young people from across the country joined the two-day event held on 29–30 November at the BRAC CDM in Savar, featuring exhibitions, discussions, dialogues and workshops.

From 12 shortlisted projects, three initiatives were awarded for creativity, community impact and potential for scale: Stories of Inclusion, an accessible audiobook platform for children with disabilities; Jolshikha, which produces eco-friendly charcoal from coconut shells; and GoodDo Toys, focusing on inclusive educational toys. For the first time, the winners will also receive BRAC’s Social Entrepreneurs’ Fellowship.

Delivering the keynote, writer and educator Professor Abdullah Abu Sayeed, Founder of Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, urged young participants to follow their aspirations with conviction. “Ask yourself what your dreams want. Follow them, and you will taste success,” he said, adding that human resilience and multidimensionality set people apart.

In the session The Science of Finding a Way, Asif Saleh, Executive Director of BRAC, emphasised the need for hope, ambition and fresh thinking amid global shifts. He said young people must step forward to address the country’s challenges, from unemployment and inequality to climate vulnerability. “Sir Fazle Hasan Abed dared to think big — that is why BRAC is here today,” he noted.

The event opened with Youth Voices Echoing the Essence of Changemaking, followed by a lecture on success by Safi Rahman Khan, Director of BRAC’s Human Capital Development Cluster, who highlighted that success is defined by lived experience rather than material gains.

One of the highlights was the formal launch of the Amra Notun Young Changemakers Award 2025, announced by Md Shariful Islam Hasan, Associate Director of BRAC’s Migration Programme and Youth Platform. From 50 initial applications, 12 projects advanced to the final round. Other notable initiatives included eco-friendly and upcycled product ventures, reusable pads for tea-estate workers, community libraries and climate-focused innovations.

The first day concluded with a cultural programme featuring performances by Warfaze and Sovvota.

On the second day, the carnival focuses on personal development, career guidance and youth leadership, with workshops and dialogues centred on nation-building.

BRAC’s Amra Notun Network (ANN) engages university students through life-skills training, mentorship and leadership opportunities. Established in 2018, ANN has expanded to 17 districts, training more than 2,600 young people. Its alumni have earned recognition from the Gates Foundation, NASA and the United Nations, and continue to mentor newer cohorts.