NN Online:
In a symbolic gesture marking the International Day of the Girl Child, adolescent Noor from Cox’s Bazar took over the role of Camp in-charge of Camp-24, Khanjada Shahriar Bin Mannan, for a day. Noor has long dreamed of contributing to her community, ensuring women and children live free from violence and have access to education and opportunities.
Since childhood, Noor has actively worked to prevent child marriages, raise awareness among adolescents, and support vulnerable families. Her leadership and dedication have made her an inspiring example for other young girls in the camp.
The event is part of Girls Take Over, a global initiative by Plan International where adolescent girls symbolically assume leadership roles in embassies, government offices, development organisations, and the private sector. This year’s theme for the International Day of the Girl Child, observed on October 11, is “The girl I am, the change I lead: Girls on the frontlines of crisis.” It highlights that while girls are disproportionately affected by crises, they are also powerful agents of change.
In Bangladesh, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs has declared the national theme: “I am a girl child – I build dreams, I fight with courage, I work for the welfare of the country,” underscoring the role of girls’ leadership in nation-building.
Noor said, “I want every girl in our camp to feel confident to speak up and take part in building a better community.”
Noor’s journey as a youth advocate began with the Champion of Change program under Plan International Bangladesh and Friends in Village Development Bangladesh (FIVDB). Through this program, she has collaborated with the community-based child protection committee (CBCPC), prevented three child marriages, encouraged children to continue their education, and promoted hygiene across the camp.
Khanjada Shahriar Bin Mannan, Camp in-charge of Camp-24, said, “The Girls Takeover programme inspires girls to dream beyond their limitations. Growing up in the camp, many still believe marriage is their only future, but this initiative is changing that. It helps girls to think bigger, believe in themselves, and see new possibilities for their lives.”
At the national level, multiple Girls Take Over events have been initiated where adolescent girls step into leadership roles in government, diplomatic missions, and private institutions. For the second consecutive year, Rohingya girls in Cox’s Bazar are participating alongside their Bangladeshi peers, advocating for their rights and showcasing their potential to drive meaningful change.
Plan International Bangladesh continues to champion girls’ leadership, promoting the message: “All girls standing strong, creating global change.”
