In the face of mounting global challenges – from climate change and gender inequality to child exploitation – one youth-led movement, founded in Bangladesh, is redefining what grassroots activism can achieve on a global scale.

The International Youth Change Maker (IYCM) initiative, established in 2012 by a small group of Bangladeshi volunteers, has grown into a far-reaching network of young leaders across more than 70 countries. Its mission is as ambitious as it is urgent: to equip young people to lead sustainable development efforts in their communities and beyond.

From Village Roots to Global Reach

What began in 13 districts across Bangladesh has since developed into a movement of over 50,000 active changemakers and 700 international ambassadors, working to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“Young people are not just citizens of one country — they are citizens of the world,” said Sajib Khandokar Junaid, the organization’s founder. “Our aim is to build a responsible and empowered youth society capable of driving real, lasting change.”

IYCM’s work spans critical areas such as climate resilience, education access, mental health awareness, gender equality, and child protection. Their flagship programmes – including Youth for Children, Mind Care, My Body, My Right, and Climate Justice Now – tackle systemic issues such as child marriage, cyberbullying, and reproductive health education.

A Measurable Impact

According to IYCM’s own figures, the organisation has: • Impacted over 1 million lives• Trained 86,000+ youth leaders• Planted more than 80,000 saplings annually• Reached 803,077 beneficiaries through its core programmes• Empowered 10,000+ young people via its signature Change Maker Development ProgrammeDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, the group mobilised thousands of volunteers under its Corona Tackling Youth Action campaign, distributing food and personal protective equipment to vulnerable communities.

A Different Kind of NGO

Unlike many traditional aid organisations, IYCM places a strong emphasis on local ownership. Programmes are designed to be run and sustained by the communities themselves, promoting resilience and reducing reliance on international funding.

This model has earned the organisation both local and international recognition. Awards include the UNICEF Meena Media Awards (2009, 2013, 2014), the Bangladesh Digital Social Innovation Award (2021), and the Global Youth Symposia’s Best Youth Organisation Award (2022).

“We work to ensure that youth – particularly young women – have a seat at the table,” said Labiba Sultana, co-founder of IYCM. “In Bangladesh, many girls still face barriers to education and leadership. We’re changing that by empowering them to lead.”

Looking Ahead to 2030

With the 2030 SDG deadline approaching, IYCM aims to position Bangladesh as a model for youth-led, climate-resilient development, rooted in gender equity and child safety.

The organisation continues to collaborate with UNICEF, climate forums, and global youth summits, all while remaining focused on grassroots change. Behind the statistics are personal stories: children attending school for the first time, communities restored through reforestation, and young women leading civic workshops in rural villages.

At its core, IYCM operates under a simple, powerful belief:“I will change myself. I will change the world.”And for thousands of young people in Bangladesh and around the world, that change is already underway.