Preneur Lab, in partnership with the Atlantic Council, successfully organized and hosted the Freedom Fellows Cohort 8 on 18th February 2025 at Bishwo Shahitto Kendro, a transformative initiative aimed at empowering young leaders through interactive learning, community engagement, and digital advocacy.
Building on the success of previous cohorts, this latest edition of the Freedom Fellows program brought together a diverse group of young changemakers, equipping them with the necessary skills to drive civic engagement, policy advocacy, and leadership in Bangladesh. The bootcamp featured an array of distinguished speakers who provided insights on governance, policy reforms, youth participation, and content creation for advocacy.
The bootcamp opened with an engaging session led by M Ashraful Tanvir, Head of Operations and Admin at Preneur Lab Youth & Innovation Trust, where participants took part in interactive activities designed to foster collaboration, networking, and leadership development. The discussions then shifted towards the future of governance and policy reforms, as Omar Mostafiz, Youth Policy Specialist and former Programme Manager at FNF Bangladesh, provided valuable insights into how young leaders can play a role in shaping sustainable policies for Bangladesh’s growth.
Emphasizing civic responsibility, Md Zahid Hossain Khan, Data Journalist and Project Researcher at Voices of Bangladesh, underscored the importance of youth participation in governance. He encouraged attendees to become actively involved in democratic processes, ensuring that their voices contribute to shaping the country’s future. Adding a creative dimension to the discussions, Alamin Pranto, Director at Start2Scaleup, conducted an inspiring session on using digital media and Generative AI for policy advocacy. He demonstrated how impactful storytelling can engage the public and drive meaningful policy changes.
Participants thoroughly enjoyed all the sessions, gaining valuable knowledge and skills. They actively engaged in group activities, discussions, and hands-on exercises, which will undoubtedly help them contribute meaningfully to policy reforms through their recommendations and advocacy efforts.
Since its inception in 2021, the Freedom Fellows program, organized by Preneur Lab and FNF Bangladesh, has successfully trained over 300 graduates across seven cohorts, fostering leadership and advocacy for economic and political freedoms. Cohort 8 continues this legacy by nurturing a new generation of changemakers equipped with the knowledge and skills to create a positive societal impact.
The Freedom Fellows program stands as a testament to the power of youth-driven initiatives in shaping the future of governance, policy, and community engagement. With the growing need for youth leadership, digital advocacy, and policy awareness, the Freedom Fellows Cohort 8 Bootcamp reaffirms its commitment to fostering a generation that is ready to lead, innovate, and drive sustainable change in Bangladesh and beyond.
