Farhana Chowdhury from Bangladesh, one of our 90 Youth Voices participants, reflects on how her upbringing and experience of youth work have shaped her approach to equality, and what makes her hopeful for a world that is fairer to all in the future.
It all began when I noticed the stark contrast in the way my aunt and uncle navigated life, despite both being highly accomplished. My aunt, a dedicated teacher, was constantly required to prove her worth and adhere to a rigid set of roles before making any decisions or taking any steps forward. Her every step seemed to demand justification. In contrast, my uncle, equally educated and successful, had the freedom to choose, act, and be respected for his decisions without the same scrutiny or expectation of validation.
This realisation was amplified when I first encountered Kazi Nazrul Islam’s poem Women and this was my first true encounter with the concept of gender equality. His radical ideas about the equal partnership between men and women resonated deeply with me, especially as I was beginning to notice the subtle inequalities around me. In those powerful lines -
"Everything that is great in the world, all the works, beneficial and good, half must be credited to woman, and to man half only we should."
These lines reflected the world I was beginning to understand a world that often excluded half its population, leaving women in the shadows. This awareness sparked a shift in how I viewed my place in society and my responsibilities within it. As I matured, my parents embodied these ideals. They always advocated for the importance of treating everyone with respect, regardless of background, gender, or social status. They never preached; instead, they lived these values. It wasn't just something they told us—it was woven into every aspect of our lives, so naturally that it felt as normal as breathing. Their unwavering commitment to education for all, especially for girls, defied societal norms that prioritised marriage over education. I’ve witnessed many girls in my community being married off, even those with stellar academic results, but my parents took a different path. My sister and I were the first women in our family to graduate and pursue further studies.
The right to choose, the right to grow
Though my parents faced criticism for their choices - sometimes receiving sideways glances or whispers behind their backs - they held firm in their belief that education and empowerment should come first. Their vision for us was never about conforming to expectations but about enabling us to create our own paths. In a society where many still saw education for girls as unnecessary, they stood apart from the crowd, prioritising what truly mattered: the right to choose, the right to grow, and the right to contribute meaningfully to the world. Their example continues to shape the way I engage with the world today, reminding me that respect for every individual, regardless of their background or gender, is not just a value to be taught but a way of life to be lived.
Another factor that highlights the evolving understanding of equality is the shifting perspective on male roles in society. Growing up, I often heard my father reflect on how societal expectations of masculinity were imposed on him at a young age. As a teenager during Bangladesh’s war of independence, he had to step into a role of responsibility far beyond his years. Deprived of the opportunity to continue his education and having lost direct contact with his father, my dad was thrust into a position where he had to support his family, despite the pressure and emotional toll. This experience shaped his understanding of masculinity, not as a symbol of stoic strength or dominance, but as a role that demands emotional resilience, empathy, and the ability to adapt in difficult times.
As he shared his story, I realised that while men have historically been seen as the ones who must shoulder responsibility in times of crisis, this has often come at the cost of their own well-being and growth. My father’s experience made me see that the pressure on men to conform to traditional masculine norms - strength, stoicism, and providing at all costs - can be just as limiting as the expectations placed on women. This reinforced my understanding that gender equality is not just about empowering women, but also about creating a space where men are free to express vulnerability and are supported in redefining their roles in society. Just as women deserve the freedom to live beyond the constraints of societal expectations, men should also be allowed to exist beyond the rigid norms of masculinity that have historically defined them.
Privilege and social structures perpetuate inequality
As a young person in Bangladesh, I first encountered civil rights and gender equality through historical stories in books at school, films about the Bangladesh liberation war, and social media. Figures like Nelson Mandela and Begum Rokeya, who fought for justice and women’s education, inspired me to think deeply about equality. But understanding these concepts required more than passive learning; it demanded engaging with the world and questioning the structures shaping our lives.
Since 2015, I have become increasingly aware of the social complexities in contemporary Bangladesh, where privilege and social structures perpetuate inequality. For instance, women often face significant barriers to education and career opportunities due to deeply ingrained gender norms. A close friend, despite being an excellent student, was pressured into marriage instead of continuing her education. This experience starkly highlighted the privileges afforded to men, who are often encouraged to pursue careers and higher education without facing the same societal constraints.
Through these experiences, I began to see how civil rights - the right to education, freedom, and equal opportunity—are intertwined with gender equality. Justice, I realised, isn’t just about laws or policies; it’s about challenging the social structures that favour one group over another. My parents, for example, ensured that my sister and I received the same opportunities as any male, despite the societal pressures around us. This personal example made me understand that justice means breaking down the barriers of privilege and ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender or background, has the right to a fair chance in life. Equality is not abstract; it demands action.
My calls for participation often seemed unheard
My journey as a youth leader began with the British Council’s LEAD Bangladesh project (Leadership for Advancing Youth in Bangladesh). My team and I launched a social action initiative called ‘Safe Environment’, focusing on Sustainable Development Goal 16: promoting transparency, accountability, and participation. As a youth-led project, it required me to engage directly with the community to address a pressing issue: waste management. My team and I worked tirelessly to advocate for a cleaner, safer environment by engaging the local councillor and pushing for action. Advocacy, however, is never easy—and as a woman, it felt five times more challenging. Despite the importance of the issue, my calls for participation often seemed unheard, and the councillor’s office became a regular place for me, where I kept knocking on the door, hoping for even the smallest step forward.
After months of persistence, we sought the support of local elites, engaging them in conversation to strengthen our advocacy. It was surprising, though, to see how much more impact a male voice had in this context compared to mine. Despite my efforts, it was clear that a man’s words carried weight that a woman’s, at least in this setting, did not. As the saying goes, "In a room full of voices, the man’s voice is the one that echoes the loudest."
Throughout the LEAD Bangladesh project, a few things particularly inspired me and shaped my understanding of equality. First, I was inspired by the youth-driven change we created. As a youth-led project, it was empowering to see my peers take the lead in advocating for change. It reinforced that equality isn’t just about waiting for others to act - it’s about taking initiative and driving progress, regardless of age or gender.
Second, the power of community solidarity stood out. Our work on waste management showed me how collective action—where everyone, regardless of gender, age, or background, comes together—can lead to meaningful change. Gender equality is about fostering a community where everyone’s voice is heard and valued.
Lastly, working with diverse groups highlighted the gender biases that still exist. Women in the project often had to fight harder to be heard, which deepened my commitment to advocating for equality - not just in opportunity, but in practice. These experiences continue to inspire me to challenge inequality and work for a more inclusive world.
The 90 Youth Voice Study Visit
A defining moment in my journey occurred when I was selected to participate in the 90 Youth Voice Study Visit in the UK and Belfast , on 30 June - 7 July 2024, where 90 diverse young people gathered to explore inclusivity, community and equality, while sharing their own journey with its unique colors and effects. At Show Some Love Green House, I witnessed how marginalised individuals were empowered to contribute equally. While the primary focus was on providing direct aid to those in need, what stood out to me most was the inclusive environment they cultivated—one that transcended gender. Men and women alike were treated with equal dignity, respect, and access to resources. This inclusive environment underscored that a truly strong society cannot exclude any of its population.
A visit to The Dock Café became a poignant reminder of what equality looks like in practice. It was here that I experienced firsthand how a community can come together, not by erasing differences, but by celebrating them. People from all walks of life, regardless of background, gender, or social status, gathered in an atmosphere of mutual respect and dignity. In this space, I felt a profound sense of belonging, something that reminded me that equality thrives not just in lofty ideals but in everyday actions, like offering a welcoming seat at the table for anyone who walks through the door. The Dock Café reinforced my belief that when we create inclusive spaces -whether in a café, a community project, or any environment - equality isn’t just a goal; it’s a living, breathing experience.
Working for a world where equality is a reality for all
Reflecting on this journey of exploration and action, I see how much has changed—not just in my understanding of equality but in the world around me. The conversations I’ve had, the projects I’ve worked on, and the stories I’ve heard have shaped me into someone who believes deeply in the power of collective action and the necessity of challenging outdated norms. What’s different now is the growing awareness and enthusiasm, especially among today’s youth, who are increasingly informed, engaged, and ready to drive change. I’m hopeful for a future where equality is not just a topic of discussion, but a lived reality for everyone.
Looking ahead, I am committed to creating spaces where everyone can thrive. I envision myself continuing to advocate for social justice, breaking down barriers, and empowering others to join in the movement. My journey so far has only fueled my passion, and I want to be someone who not only learns but acts, creating lasting impact through compassion, dialogue, and action.
While the road ahead may be fraught with challenges, the collective spirit of those fighting for equality inspires me. As we look to the future, let us advocate for the principles of equality. Together, we can create a culture where love, understanding, and compassion thrive. Each of us has a vital role in shaping a future where everyone is empowered and free from discrimination. Let us be the change we wish to see - a united force working for a world where equality is a reality for all. By doing this, we can build a legacy of hope, compassion, and justice for future generations.