On this special day, we celebrate the incredible strength and aspirations of countless young individuals who confront challenges with unwavering courage. Across the globe, from remote villages to bustling cities, the minds of these young people are shaping their destinies with determination and hope.
Among the many remarkable stories, we find the inspiring tale of two 16-year-old girls, Afroza Jannat, and Tanjila Akta, hailing from the village of Thuri near Jamalpur. These girls have emerged as true heroes in their community, defying societal norms and pressure. Their journey of empowerment began when they joined the UNFPA's Kishori Resource Center (KRC) program, which became the catalyst for discovering their inner strength and finding their voices. Their newfound confidence not only influenced their peers but also showcased the power of dedication in achieving anything they set their minds to.
Afroza and Tanjila attend high school and eagerly visit the KRC weekly after classes. The KRC program provides a safe space for discussing sensitive topics like menstruation and other women's issues, often considered taboo in their community. Afroza, aspiring to be a doctor, shared, "When a gender promoter came to our home and invited us to join the program, we immediately said yes. We love coming to KRC." Tanjila echoed her sentiment.
Through their participation in the KRC program, the girls gained confidence and access to a valuable support system where they found guidance and advice. Their empowerment took a remarkable turn when they, along with two friends, successfully intervened to prevent a young girl from becoming one of the millions of child brides worldwide.
They recounted the emotional encounter with a classmate who was distraught as her parents were planning to arrange her marriage at just 16 years old. Early marriages are common in their community, seen as a way to preserve family honor and adhere to societal standards. Understanding the adverse impact on their friend's future, Afroza and Tanjila appealed to her mother, but their pleas were ignored. Their friend was sent away to her aunt's village as the wedding plans progressed.
Filled with determination from their experiences at the KRC, the girls were motivated to take action. They informed the KRC staff about the situation, who, in turn, addressed the matter with the parents, emphasizing the legal consequences of child marriage.
Afroza and Tanjila, accompanied by supportive friends, bravely approached their friend's mother, insisting that she return to school immediately. Though the mother initially suggested a one-week delay, the girls persistently urged her to act sooner, expressing concern for their friend's safety. In a touching moment, they called the aunt, and the mother heard her daughter's cry, which left a profound impact on her. As a result, the wedding was called off, and their friend was reunited with them, still unmarried, happy, and continuing her education.
Today, on Youth Day, we stand in awe of the unstoppable spirit of young changemakers worldwide. Their resilience, dreams, advocacy, innovation, and solidarity have ignited a powerful movement for positive changes. UNFPA remains committed to supporting and empowering youth and adolescents as they shape a more sustainable and equitable future for all. Together, let us celebrate and amplify their voices. The world's destiny lies in their hands.
