Beyond Borders: A meeting of minds
The huge event was inaugurated by President Iajuddin Ahmed who congratulated the Beyond Borders group for their function. Other noted personalities, such as Taleya Rehman, executive director of Democracy Watch, June Rollinson, director of British Council and mayor of Dhaka City Corporation Sadek Hussain Khoka gave speeches.
The three-day long youth summit comprised of various interactive sessions and workshops. Over 700 young people took part in the event. Innovative workshops, such as mask making, public speaking, creative writing, theatre were conducted by eminent personalities. Besides an art and quiz competition, the screening of films and a panel discussion were also showcased, along with a cultural performance by folk artistes.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. Said one enthusiastic Indian core group member of Beyond Borders, "Drops together make an ocean...Beyond Borders is one such ocean of efforts, initiatives and enthusiasm to bring about a change in our stereotyped thought processes and move beyond our personal barriers."
The youth meet also organised visits to the Geneva camp (the makeshift homes of Biharis) in Dhaka, who have been deprived of citizenship even after 35 years of Independence of Bangladesh. Shaheed Minar and Liberation War Museum were other stops on February 21, International Mother Language Day.
Beyond Borders traces its origin to the September 11 incident in the US. As racism and intolerance raised their head the world over, the British Council initiated a move to energise the essence of different cultures and generate awareness about inherent similarities. Through its Beyond Borders project, the Council opened a window of opportunity for young people to transcend all boundaries and comfort zones to set in motion a positive change for the global community. The project is organised and run by young people in the age group of 18-25 years, who are committed to ameliorate society. In Bangladesh, the project is being implemented by Democracy Watch.
Today Beyond Borders is no longer an unfamiliar term, but has traversed a long distance in accomplishing its objectives. The voyage, which began with a handful of people, today covers around 2,500 people from all round the nation, kindling the spirit of active citizenship. The team has even left its footprints in distant Kurigram to help those in need.
The support of the British Council has undoubtedly transformed Beyond Borders from the dream of yesterday to a reality today.