Reflective Teens Trust Announces Rakin Absar as Goodwill Ambassador on Its 12th Anniversary
Dhaka, Bangladesh – June 23, 2025 – As Reflective Teens Trust celebrates 12 years of empowering young minds and transforming education in under-resourced communities, the organization is delighted to announce Mr. Rakin Absar as its Goodwill Ambassador for the next 12 months. Mr. Absar, known for his dedication to youth development and creative social engagement, brings with him a deep commitment to the values that Reflective Teens Trust upholds. His collaboration with the organization comes at a time when Reflective Teens is expanding its efforts to reach more students, create inclusive learning environments, and strengthen its nationwide impact. Together, Reflective Teens Trust and Mr. Absar will work to mobilise a vibrant volunteer network, establish new Education Labs (Ed. Labs) in underserved areas, and initiate a dedicated School Renovation Fund aimed at improving educational infrastructure in marginalized communities. “This collaboration with Rakin Absar is not just symbolic—it reflects our shared belief that every child deserves access to creative, safe, and inspiring educational spaces,” said Yusuf Munna, Founder and Executive Director of Reflective Teens Trust. “His energy and advocacy will amplify our work and encourage more young people to get involved in social transformation.” Reflective Teens Trust extends a warm welcome to Mr. Rakin Absar and looks forward to working together over the next year to promote inclusive, quality education and spark lasting change in the lives of thousands of learners.
AirAstra and Reflective Teens Trust Join Forces to Champion Youth-Led Change
Dhaka, Bangladesh — May 28, 2025 — In a landmark collaboration celebrating youth empowerment and community impact, AirAstra, Bangladesh’s premier private airline, has featured Reflective Teens Trust in the latest issue of its inflight magazine, Celestar. This recognition highlights Reflective Teens’ decade-long mission to transform under-resourced schools and empower the next generation of changemakers across the country. As part of this partnership, AirAstra is spotlighting the work of Reflective Teens to a national and international audience — bringing stories of student innovation, community projects, and education reform from grassroots Bangladesh to the skies. “We are honored to be featured in Celestar and grateful to AirAstra for believing in the power of young people,” said Mr. Yusuf Munna, Executive Director of Reflective Teens Trust. “This partnership elevates our message and reminds us that when youth are given the platform, they can truly fly.” Reflective Teens Trust, established in 2013, has impacted thousands of students by facilitating creative education initiatives, digital literacy programs, and infrastructure support for schools in marginalized regions. With projects like Ed.Lab, a community-powered education hub, and national campaigns run by young volunteers, the organization is reshaping what it means to learn, lead, and give back. “At AirAstra, we believe in lifting up local stories that inspire. Reflective Teens Trust represents the best of Bangladesh’s future — driven, hopeful, and transformative,” said Mr. Sakib Shovo, Head of Communications at AirAstra. “Featuring them in Celestar is just the beginning of our commitment to supporting youth-led impact.” The partnership comes at a symbolic moment as Reflective Teens marks its 12th year of operation in 2025. With an ambitious vision for the next chapter — including expanding their Ed.Lab model to remote islands and launching the first nationwide school innovation challenge — the recognition by AirAstra adds wind beneath their wings. Celestar magazine is available on all domestic and international AirAstra flights. Passengers are encouraged to read about the inspiring journey of Reflective Teens Trust and discover ways to support or get involved.
Empowering Youth for a Safer Digital Future: Cybersecurity Workshop Series Launches with Global Experts
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, cybersecurity awareness and ethical internet use have become essential life skills—especially for youth. To build capacity among young changemakers, a Cybersecurity Workshop Series will be hosted every Saturday throughout May, featuring four intensive sessions led by international experts from Internet Society, Swiss Cyber Institute, and Kaspersky. The series will engage 20 selected participants from diverse backgrounds in virtual, hour-long workshops that cover: Cybersecurity threats and digital hygiene Strategies for protecting digital identities Detecting misinformation and AI-generated content Responsible and ethical online behavior Empowering Youth-Led Community ActionUpon completion of the workshop series, participants will take the lead in designing and implementing community campaigns to amplify their knowledge and raise awareness among their peers. These youth-led initiatives aim to extend the reach of the training and promote safer digital practices in their respective communities. How to Apply:Youth aged 18–30 are invited to apply by sending their full name, phone number, email address, academic institution, and a brief statement (in 5 sentences) about why they want to join the series. Applications can be submitted via inbox or email to reflectiveteens@gmail.com. Application Deadline: 30 April, 2025 This initiative is part of a broader commitment to digital literacy, youth empowerment, and online safety, ensuring that young leaders not only protect themselves but also become advocates for a more secure and ethical digital ecosystem.
Shapers Chattogram Hub & Reflective Teens Donates Laptops, Learning Materials, and Internet Access to 250+ Students of Matarbari Kindergarten
Matarbari, Cox’s Bazar – In a powerful step toward bridging the digital divide, Global Shapers Chattogram Hub and Reflective Teens has donated laptops, essential learning materials, and free internet connectivity to over 250 students of Matarbari Kindergarten, a community-based school serving children from underprivileged backgrounds. This initiative is already making a significant impact, enabling students to join online classes, engage in digital literacy training, and explore self-paced learning platforms for the very first time. With these resources, learners can now access a world of educational content, mentorship programs, and creative tools that were previously out of reach. The school’s teachers have expressed heartfelt appreciation for the support. Ms. Rukhsana Begum, a senior teacher at Matarbari Kindergarten, shared, “Most of our students had never seen a laptop before. Today, they’re not only using them but actively participating in digital classes. Their excitement is infectious, and their confidence is growing every day.” Students, too, are embracing this new chapter in their learning journey. Fahim, a Class 4 student, said, “I always wanted to explore computers and learn new things. Now I can watch science videos, draw online, and even join workshops. It feels like the future is finally in our hands.” Global Shapers Chattogram Hub and Reflective Teens has stated that this is just the beginning of a long-term commitment to empowering students through accessible technology and meaningful learning experiences. The initiative includes follow-up training for both students and educators to ensure sustainable and effective use of the digital tools. This act of inclusion and innovation stands as a testament to Global Shapers Chattogram Hub and Reflective Teens’ mission of transforming under-resourced schools into hubs of opportunity and creativity—starting with the bright minds of Matarbari Kindergarten.
When Passion Meets Purpose: IUB Students and Reflective Teens Spark Island Talent
As part of an innovative collaboration between Reflective Teens and students from Independent University, Bangladesh (IUB), ten promising teen artists from Matarbari Kindergarten have been provided with essential painting materials and creative guidance. Over the course of a month, these young learners engaged in a hands-on training program designed to nurture their artistic potential and allow them to explore their creative expression. This initiative was spearheaded by three IUB students—Sudeepto Saha, Ashrafi Anjuman Sneha, and Mohammad Nahid Islam—who generously used the token money they received during the university’s 25th Convocation. The funds were presented to them by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of IUB, symbolizing a gesture of trust in their potential and social responsibility. The outcome of this inspiring effort will culminate in an art exhibition at the EMK Center in Dhaka, where the final paintings of the Matarbari teen artists will be displayed. The exhibition aims to not only celebrate the creativity of these island children but also highlight how strategic support and collaboration can empower youth in under-resourced communities. This project exemplifies the transformative power of youth-led action in fostering talent and inclusivity through the arts.
Yusuf Munna selected as Internet Society Fellow
Yusuf Munna selected as Internet Society Fellow [Dhaka, 07 March 2025] – Yusuf Munna, Founder and Executive Director of Reflective Teens, has been selected as an Internet Society Early Career Fellow in recognition of his impactful work in promoting internet safety for last-mile communities and schools. Through Reflective Teens, he has been instrumental in ensuring that students and educators can navigate the digital world securely and responsibly. The Internet Society Early Career Fellowship provides emerging leaders with unparalleled access to world-class experts, including scholars from American University and the Oxford Internet Institute. This prestigious program will enable Yusuf to further his advocacy for digital inclusion and online safety, contributing to shaping a more secure and accessible internet for underserved communities. Reflective Teens continues to drive positive change through policy advocacy, digital literacy initiatives, and innovative educational programs that empower youth in Bangladesh and beyond. Yusuf’s selection for this fellowship underscores his commitment to leveraging the internet for social good. ইন্টারনেট সোসাইটির ফেলো নির্বাচিত হয়েছেন ইউসুফ মুন্না [ঢাকা, ০৭ মার্চ ২০২৫] – ইন্টারনেট সোসাইটি আর্লি ক্যারিয়ার ফেলোশিপ অর্জন করেছেন রিফ্লেকটিভ টিনস-এর প্রতিষ্ঠাতা ও নির্বাহী পরিচালক ইউসুফ মুন্না। প্রান্তিক জনগোষ্ঠী ও স্কুলগুলোর জন্য ইন্টারনেট নিরাপত্তা নিশ্চিতকরণে তার উল্লেখযোগ্য অবদানের স্বীকৃতি হিসেবে এই ফেলোশিপের জন্য নির্বাচিত করা হয়েছে। রিফ্লেকটিভ টিনসের মাধ্যমে শিক্ষার্থী ও শিক্ষকদের নিরাপদ ও দায়িত্বশীলভাবে ডিজিটাল জগৎ পরিচালনার জন্য সচেতন করে তুলতে কাজ করে যাচ্ছে রিফ্লেকটিভ টিনস। ইন্টারনেট সোসাইটি আর্লি ক্যারিয়ার ফেলোশিপ বিশ্বমানের বিশেষজ্ঞদের সাথে সরাসরি সংযুক্ত হওয়ার সুযোগ প্রদান করে, যেখানে আমেরিকান ইউনিভার্সিটি ও অক্সফোর্ড ইন্টারনেট ইনস্টিটিউটের গবেষকরা অন্তর্ভুক্ত রয়েছেন। এই মর্যাদাপূর্ণ প্রোগ্রাম ইউসুফকে ডিজিটাল অন্তর্ভুক্তি ও অনলাইন নিরাপত্তার প্রচারে তার উদ্যোগকে আরও বিস্তৃত করতে সহায়তা করবে, যা পিছিয়ে থাকা সম্প্রদায়গুলোর জন্য একটি নিরাপদ ও সহজলভ্য ইন্টারনেট ব্যবস্থা গড়ে তুলতে গুরুত্বপূর্ণ ভূমিকা রাখবে। রিফ্লেকটিভ টিনস তাদের পলিসি এডভোকেসি, ডিজিটাল সাক্ষরতা বৃদ্ধির উদ্যোগ এবং উদ্ভাবনী শিক্ষামূলক প্রোগ্রামের মাধ্যমে বাংলাদেশ ও এর বাইরের যুবসমাজের ক্ষমতায়নে করতে কাজ করে যাচ্ছে। ইউসুফের এই ফেলোশিপ অর্জন সামাজিক কল্যাণে ইন্টারনেটকে ইতিবাচকভাবে ব্যবহার করার প্রতিশ্রুতির প্রতিফলন বহন করে। ——- For media inquiries or more information, please contact: yusufmunna16@gmail.com
Reports
Reflective Teens (RT) is a Bangladesh-based non-profit organization established in 2013 as a registered trust. It aims to empower under-resourced schools throughout the country by designing innovative solutions that address the challenges these schools face. To know kore about us, please have a look into the document here. Reflective Teens 3-pager
Yusuf Munna Appointed to The Possibilists Council
Bangladeshi social entrepreneur and the founder of Reflective Teens (RT), Yusuf Munna, has been selected as a council member of German based NGO, The Possibilists. He joins an elite group of 12 changemakers from across Europe, Africa, Asia, North America, South America, and the MENA region, placing at the heart of a powerful global ecosystem that includes over 20 renowned youth innovation networks such as Ashoka, the Diana Award, the Obama Foundation, One Young World, and Yunus & Youth. As a council member, Yusuf will bring insights and expertise, offering guidance to The Possibilists team and global alliance partners. He will also play a key role in preparing a study that will provide scientific insights into the lives and needs of young changemakers worldwide, aiming to co-create systemic solutions to better support youth driving positive change globally. দ্য পসিবিলিস্টস কাউন্সিলের সদস্য নির্বাচিত হলেন ইউসুফ মুন্না বাংলাদেশি সামাজিক উদ্যোক্তা এবং রিফ্লেকটিভ টিনস (আরটি) এর প্রতিষ্ঠাতা ইউসুফ মুন্না সম্প্রতি জার্মানভিত্তিক অলাভজনক সংস্থা দ্য পসিবিলিস্টস কাউন্সিলের সদস্য হিসেবে নির্বাচিত হয়েছেন। ইউরোপ, আফ্রিকা, এশিয়া, উত্তর ও দক্ষিণ আমেরিকা এবং মধ্যপ্রাচ্যের ১২ জন উদ্ভাবনীর মধ্যে একজন হিসেবে তিনি এক শক্তিশালী বৈশ্বিক নেটওয়ার্কের অংশ হলেন, যেখানে আশোকা, ডায়ানা অ্যাওয়ার্ড, ওবামা ফাউন্ডেশন, ওয়ান ইয়াং ওয়ার্ল্ড, ইউনুস অ্যান্ড ইয়ুথের মতো ২০টিরও বেশি প্রতিষ্ঠানের প্রতিনিধিত্ব রয়েছে। দ্য পসিবিলিস্টস কাউন্সিলের সদস্য হিসেবে ইউসুফ তার অভিজ্ঞতা ও দিকনির্দেশনা প্রদান করবেন এবং বৈশ্বিক অংশীদারদের সাথে পরামর্শ বিনিময় করবেন। এছাড়া তিনি একটি গবেষণা প্রতিবেদন প্রস্তুতিতে অংশ নেবেন যা উদ্ভাবনী তরুণদের জীবন, কাজ এবং চাহিদা নিয়ে বৈজ্ঞানিক অন্তর্দৃষ্টি প্রদান করবে। উল্লেখ্য, এই তথ্যের উপর ভিত্তি করে, যুব সমাজের ইতিবাচক পরিবর্তন আনার জন্য কার্যকর ব্যবস্থা গ্রহণে সহায়ক সমাধানসমূহ নির্মাণ করা হবে।
Reflective Teens Launches ‘Paharer Golpo’ – A Collection of Indigenous Tales
Reflective Teens, a youth-led nonprofit organization, successfully hosted the launch of its latest publication, Paharer Golpo, today at Kennedy Hall, EMK Centre, Gulshan-2, Dhaka. The book is a compilation of stories that reflect the rich heritage and cultural narratives of the indigenous communities of Bangladesh. The launch event, held from 4:00 to 5:00 PM, opened with remarks by Yusuf, Founder and Executive Director of Reflective Teens. Yusuf highlighted the significance of Paharer Golpo, emphasizing its role in bringing the perspectives of indigenous peoples to the forefront. “This book aims to bridge the gap between the indigenous communities and the mainstream Bangalee population,” Yusuf stated. “Given the current situation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, it is crucial for all of us to work together to promote harmony and understanding among the diverse peoples of our country.” The Chief Guest, renowned writer and cartoonist Ahsan Habib, praised the Reflective Teens team and everyone involved in the making of the book. He lauded the effort as an essential contribution to amplifying indigenous voices and expressed his commitment to continue supporting initiatives that highlight the indigenous perspective. Saima Afsara, Programme Officer at EMK Centre, also praised the project, stating, “This initiative is a remarkable step towards amplifying the voices of our indigenous communities, whose stories are often left unheard. I would like to thank the team at Reflective Teens for this brilliant initiative, and I am glad that we could be a part of it.” EMK Centre, a key patron of this project, has supported Paharer Golpo in its journey from concept to completion. Their backing has been instrumental in ensuring the stories of indigenous communities reach a wider audience, fostering greater cultural understanding. Reflective Teens is dedicated to empowering under-resourced communities through innovative projects, and Paharer Golpo serves as a testament to their mission of inclusivity and cultural awareness. The book is part of their ongoing effort to spread awareness of the indigenous heritage of the hill tracts, ensuring these narratives reach a broader audience.
Empowering Future Changemakers: Fostering Creativity and Education through Student-Led Climate Solutions in Khulna and Bagerhat
Reflective Teens Trust, in collaboration with Innovision Consulting, is proud to be part of the Feed the Future Bangladesh Nutrition Activity Program. This initiative focuses on working with 15 schools across the Khulna and Bagerhat regions to enhance climate literacy and empower students to design and implement locally led solutions to address climate challenges unique to their communities. By combining hands-on education with practical innovation, students are encouraged to identify environmental issues in their surroundings and develop sustainable, community-driven solutions. This initiative not only fosters climate awareness but also creates valuable opportunities for local students to realize their full potential. By utilizing their creativity, students are empowered to take ownership of the issues facing their communities and actively contribute to solving real-world problems. Reflective Teens Trust is dedicated to bringing these student-designed projects to life by providing the necessary resources, mentorship, and guidance. Through this collaboration, the program aims to inspire a new generation of changemakers, helping students build resilience while discovering and utilizing their talents to make a meaningful impact on their environment.