At the world’s largest refugee camp in Bangladesh, many young Rohingya people strive to find a sense of normalcy amidst uncertainty. Among them is Nur Kaida, whose story stands as a beacon of resilience and empowerment.
Nur Kaida lives in Camp 20, Cox’s Bazar, with her family. Growing up in this challenging environment, she faced numerous obstacles. However, her life began to change when she joined the BITA life skills education sessions through the JP-CPiE project implemented by Plan International Bangladesh.
As a member of the Adolescent Group, Nur Kaida eagerly participated in all 25 sessions, absorbing knowledge that transformed her understanding of the world. She learned about crucial issues like good touch/bad touch, women’s and children’s rights, and the dangers of child labor and child marriage. Armed with this knowledge, she became a beacon of change within her community.
“I believe that education has the power to change lives. It helps us understand our rights and distinguish between good and bad. Every girl deserves the chance to dream, to learn, and to build a better future,” says Nur Kaida.
Through her involvement, Nur Kaida actively works to prevent child marriage among her peers, sharing the wisdom she gained from the sessions. Before, many in her community were unaware of their rights, trapped within the confines of tradition and ignorance. Girls couldn’t dare to leave home, let alone pursue an education. But now, empowered by awareness, they can defy expectations, leave home, and seek education even after turning 12.
Together, they’re rewriting their futures, one step at a time.
Nur Kaida’s impact on her community is profound. Community members speak highly of her efforts. “Nur Kaida’s journey is nothing short of inspiring,” says a community member. “She’s not just changing her own life; she’s changing the lives of everyone around her. We’re all supporting her.”
Plan International Bangladesh, through the JP-CPiE project, is committed to empowering girls like Nur Kaida and supporting the girls to be empowered and to become agents of change in their communities.
Nur Kaida’s story is just one among many. Across Camps 17, 20, and 20 Extension, countless tales of resilience and empowerment have been sparked by the child protection sessions.
Adolescents like Nur Kaida have been touched by the transformative power of knowledge. They’ve become agents of change, standing up for their rights and reshaping their destinies.
“Growing up in the camp, I always believed in the power of education to change lives. It helps us understand our rights and also helps us distinguish between good and bad. Together, we can make our dreams come true,” says Nur Kaida.
This publication was produced with the financial support of the German Humanitarian Assistance
Its contents are the sole responsibility of Joining Forces and do not necessarily reflect the views of the German Humanitarian Assistance.