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South Asian Youth Society E-Newsletter Volume 3| Issue 2| March-April 2015
South Asian Youth Society
SAYS Table From the desk of the South Asian Youth Society (SAYS),
the contributors and team working behind the action
projects of SAYS are extremely excited to convey a
wonderful edition which reflects their unique aptitude and
skills to deliver an eloquent and informative newsletter.
Their vivacious work for development from a specific and
individual angle has been portrayed through the bold and
powerful use of words. Our members‟ achievements and
success stories define their profound dedication of their
work. We express extreme gratitude and pride to share
these diverse success stories of the brilliant members
which, we believe, will inspire and originate footsteps for
the visionary potential youth.
The journey of development of South Asia and beyond
begins from here.
SAYS- Connecting the youth to the developed future.
SAYS Table
Youth for Development
It is important to have a concrete goal
in one’s life for self development. The
same is required for a nation, region
and beyond. The Development goals
map the visionary alleys of the youth.
The youths are the change makers of a
brighter tomorrow who maps their goals
into strategies.
To give a deeper insight of the
development goals, this session
highlights our members’ efforts to jot
down the Sustainable Development
goals (SDGs) and aware the mass
people about it. Their endeavor begins
from their local communities through
Concise and Action-oriented projects.
- From Editor’s Desk
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In the peace and conflict session, emphasis were given to increase overall regional cooperation and
building a strong communication system connecting people to people so that South Asia can move
forward in a common direction in the way to prosperity. These will help combat issues like terrorism,
scarcity of resources, climate change and will also help overcome the political differences. Shehreen
Khan from Bangladesh urged to create a platform where rather than relying on conventional media
South Asian countries will be able to share their thoughts, opinions regarding the real political situation
of the country.
Virtual Model SAARC Summit
2015
-Amina Khan
The first ever Virtual Model SAARC Summit 2015 was
organized by South Asian Youth Society (SAYS) in
association with US Embassy at EMK Centre on 7th
March, 2015. Delegates from five SAARC countries
including Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Nepal and
Afghanistan participated through Skype and shared their
thoughts and ideas aiming at building a peaceful and
prosperous South Asia.
The day started with opening remarks of Mr. George Mesthos (Cultural Affairs Officer, the American Center),Towfique
A. Khan (The Founder and President of SAYS) and Mr. Zunayeed (International Program Coordinator at South Asian
Youth Society (SAYS) where the delegates were given a warm welcome.
Then two committee sessions “Peace & Conflict” and “Socioeconomic Committee” were conducted by Mr. George. Four
delegates from India Neeraj Kumar, Ruth Verma, Gayatri Ragunandan, Deepsha Dhal, two delegates from Nepal Mr.
Bishal Dahal and Mr. Sanjaya Neupane, two delegates from Bangladesh Rasheduzzaman, Shehreen Ataur Khan, one
delegate from Pakistan and Afghanistan Huda Hussain Burgri and Nasratullah Rasa joined the session. Unfortunately
delegates from Bhutan Maldives and Sri Lanka could not attend the session due to some technical difficulties.
In the Socio economic committee, facts like using blue economy or ocean economy for development, sharing resources,
investing more in the countries having potential resources but are economically poor, industrial cooperation and
improvement of education system were discussed which are the key to an affluent South Asia. Deepsha from India said
“Participation of youth can lead to a better situation”. Another delegate named Nasratullah from Afghanistan believes that
economic development is impossible without mutual cooperation.
In the closing session Towfique A. Khan suggested using the South Asian Youth Society (SAYS) platform for sharing
their ideas and opinions. After that George Mesthos ended the session saying “This is not the end, only the beginning”
and the actual Model SAARC Summit 2015 will be implemented soon.
In the peace and conflict session, emphasis were given to increase
overall regional cooperation and building a strong communication
system connecting people to people so that South Asia can move
forward in a common direction in the way to prosperity. These
will help combat issues like terrorism, scarcity of resources,
climate change and will also help overcome the political
differences. Shehreen Khan from Bangladesh urged to create a
platform where rather than relying on conventional media South
Asian countries will be able to share their thoughts, opinions
regarding the real political situation of the country.
www.says.org.bd
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Celebrating our words
with “Bhashar Shopoth”
-Tamanna AlamNavila
Black and White are the colors. We
celebrate our language, honoring the
sacrifices of our heroes for a language that is
ours.
However, just like how we fail to appreciate
what we have, we distort our own language.
With this realization, Active Citizenship
team of South Asian Youth Society (SAYS)
launched “Bhashar Shopoth”, with which
they dedicated their 21st February to
collecting pledges from individuals across
the globe. Different professionals from
diverse age group and nationalities were
seen celebrating their language through
rectifying their mistakes.
it dedicated the last week of February, from 21st
to 28th
to collect pledges from individuals across the
globe. Different professionals from diverse age group and nationalities were seen celebrating their
language through rectifying their mistakes.
As a member of this group, I went to talk to the general population with Tanvir Nabil and Abdullah
Mohammed Arif, and the response was astonishing. Yes, we did hear “no”s and “I am running late”s,
but some responses were truly inspiring. For instance, when I asked a gentleman in Jamuna Future
Park, Dhaka what his pledge would be, he kept us waited for twenty minutes just to make sure that he
will be able to act according to the pledge he writes! We came across mortified faces who forgot
spellings; we laughed with people trying to correct their pronunciations. At the end of the day, we
rediscovered our roots and left some minds pondering. What is your Bhashar Shopoth?
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Old Dhaka. It has been forever since all the newly recruited SAYS members have reconciled with the senior and
executive members of the organization. Finally the long anticipated day had arrived.
At around 7:30 am in the morning, we all gathered at the Mohsin Hall field of Dhaka University for an exciting cricket
match between the boys. Nearly 25 people were present there. It was a breath taking match that lasted for almost 3
hours and ended up in a draw. After the match, we freshened up and sat together for breakfast where we discussed the
fun moments of the match. Everyone seemed to be tremendously enthusiastic for the up-coming events. Our next
destination was Old Dhaka. At around 11, we reached the renowned historical place of the country, the “Lalbagh Fort”.
“Lalbagh Fort”, also known as Aurangabad Fort, is situated at the Lalbagh area of Old DHaka, by the river Buriganga.
The fort consists of three main parts; the mosque at the west, the tomb of “PariBibi” and “Diwan-I-Aam”, which was
the main fort. Diwan-I-Aam was a two storied building, which was turned into a museum by the authorities. We spent
almost 2 hours looking through the belongings of the Mughals, which stood as proof of their aristocracy. We felt
honored to be in presence of such historic artifacts which have been carefully preserved. Later, we went to visit the
famous “Star Mosque”, known as “Tara Masjid” to the locals.
The Mosque was built over a century ago. It is beautifully decorated with stars all over it. Many precious gems were
used in its decoration too, which were taken away by people through ages. Its beauty is truly breath taking. While
waiting on the bus for others to finish their Jumma prayer, we indulged ourselves into cold glasses of the famous
“Beauty‟s Sorbet” (Beauty‟s juicy, a delicacy of Old Dhaka). It was undoubtedly a relief as it went down our throat in
the scorching heat of summer. Followed by this, we went to experience the famous culinary delicacies of Old Dhaka,
Hotel Al-Razzak. After the appetizing meal we headed towards our next destination- the extraordinary architecture of
the Nawab period, the “Ahsan Manzil”. On the way, we sang along and chattered among ourselves, which was pretty
entertaining and the entire journey in a humid summer day among the hustles and bustles seemed least bothering.
Visiting “Ahsan Manzil” was a pleasurable and learning experience. We remained absolutely astonished looking at the
standard of their stunning architecture. We bore diligence amongst ourselves discussing the brilliance of the structure,
starting from their court-rooms to their back-yards. This palace was turned into a museum; all the artifacts, books and
furniture which once were used by the Nawab family were now displayed in exhibits for us to gaze at. Later in the
evening, there was a quiz contest for all of us where we had to answer few questions related to the historical facts we
had learnt throughout the day. Tanvir Nabil of 2014-15 batch was the winner of the contest. Tamanna Alam Navila of
2014-15 batch and Shakil Ahme, a senior member and facilitator, were the two runner ups. All of them were given
exciting prizes in a short award ceremony.
www.says.org.bd
SAYS “Day Out” Ramisha Anjum
It has been a while, since the South Asian
Youth Society (SAYS) has been planning a
day-long get together for all its members.
On 24 March, 2015, all the members of the
SAYS family were informed about the
“SAYS Day Out”. It was a daylong event,
which included visit to the incredible
historical and architectural specialties of
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SAYS “Day Out” PHOTO WALL
Finally, we ended the day-out with a speech from the founder and president of SAYS, Mr. Towfiq A Khan, reflecting
on the prospect of our contribution towards preservation and representation of our rich history and culture.
We are extremely grateful to the South Asian Youth Society for arranging such a well organized event for all of us. It
has undoubtedly left a significant place in our hearts and it is one which will be preserved in our memory forever. The
day has definitely built a bond of friendship between the members of the SAYS family.
www.says.org.bd
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www.says.org.bd
Rendezvous with the Car-Boy
The first formula racer of Bangladesh,
MahfuzurRahmanTushar was featured on Dhaka
Tribune’s “I’m made in Bangladesh” campaign which
featured some young heroes of the country who
shone in various fields. We recently sat with him to
know his feeling about his achievement and his
overall opinion on racing in Bangladesh.
1. How does it feel to see your face on a
bill board?
It felt really good. It shows that you can
achieve your dreams if you just don‟t give
up. I personally liked the line they have used
(I grew up in the jam ridden streets of Dhaka,
now I am a race car driver). It really explains
my journey in one line.
2. How was the experience of giving an
interview?
It was a really good feeling to sit and tell my
story. To know that my dream and journey
was getting published on news paper felt
amazing. Stories like these inspire people to
chase their dreams and work hard for them.
I often get positive feedback from people
when anything about me gets published,
which makes me feel that I have achieved
something.
3. We all have read your story and your
passion towards speed. But what inspired
you to be a racer?
Bangladesh has brilliant drivers, but there is
no opportunity for professional car racing. I
saw this as an opportunity I can capitalize on.
I grew up admiring the greats of racing, who
inspired me to be a racer. Automobile
engineer, NijamuddinAowliaLipu has also
been a great inspiration. Another key moment
for me was when I lost the World Cyber
Games Bangladesh 2007. This loss gave the
inspiration to prove myself.
4. How supportive was your family and
friends?
When I started my journey, some of my
friends and my family were skeptical about
my choice. But gradually they began to
support my decisions. It was their support that
lead me to where I am now.
5. How much have you progressed?
I am currently racing in the Formula 4
category, but I am eligible to race in Formula
3. Many of the people in our country only
know that there is Formula 1. They don‟t
understand that Formula 4 is also an
important stage, which every great racer has
to cross to reach higher levels. I should
mention here that the sons of the legendary
racers James Hunt and NikiLauda have raced
in the very race tracks where I race now. In
Sha Allah in near future I will be racing with
them as well.
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www.says.org.bd
6. What was that one moment that made you feel successful?
There is this one moment that I would cherish forever. It was the starting of one of my races. The announcer
was introducing the racers. While introducing me, he said “Here is MahfuzurRahmanTushar, The
NarainKarthikeyan of Bangladesh”. Being compared to the South Asian legend NarainKathikeyan made me
forget everything and just cherish the moment.
7. What is your future plan?
MY future plan is to organize a professional racing event. Then, hopefully I‟ll start a car racing club for the
enthusiastic races of the country, and make racing a regular sport.
8. What do you do when you are not racing?
When I am not racing I am usually doing what a regular guy of my age would do. I hang out with friends,
study and travel. I am a big fan of bikes as well. I also like designing cars.
9. If you were not a racer what would you have been?
If I was not a car racer, I would have been an artist. Art has always been a passion for me. I enjoy designing
cars and making car models in my free time.
-car models designed by Tushar
10. A message to the members of the SAYS family?
Think big, dream big. Follow your passion and be consistent about it. And giving up is not an option. This is
the key to success.
The interview was designed
and conducted by Tanvir Nabil.
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www.says.org.bd
Our leader in One word
“Visionary”- Monojit Saha
“Energetic”- Mumta Hena Pia
“Motivator”- Abdullah Mohammed Arif
“Friendly”- Inzamum Ul Hoque Navin
“President”- Abdullah Mahir Masud
“Prudent”- Paromita Reeti
“DYNAMIC”- Punna Islam
“Versatile”- Tahrima H Moon
“Selfless”- Tamanna Alam Navila
Designed and compiled by
Tamanna Alam Navila
On 13 March, our honorable founder and president, Mr.
Towfique A. Khan was featured in the Daily Star. Titled
“Leading by Example”, the article featured his vision
towards forming the huge youth network, The South
Asian Youth Society (SAYS). On this occasion, we
asked our members to describe their image of a leader in
one word. We got a huge response within hours. Some of
those responses are shared below-
Official website : www.says.org.bd
Twitter : www.twitter.com/says.org.bd
Facebook : www.facebook.com/says.org.bd
Linked in: South Asian Youth Society (Group)
Youtube: www.youtube.com/says.org.bd
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We have
conquered the
Everest!!!
Better hold the pen
so that people think I
am working!!
Who Wants teach
me?
Me!!!
!
Me!!
See Guys! This is
how you do the
Gangnam Style!
I look
fabulous!!
Must not
show
teeth!!
MUST SHOW
TEETH!!! He is so
happy!
Why are we all
laughing??
I don’t know!
Just go with
the flow bro!
Glad I brushed
my teeth this
morning!!
SO MUCH
HAPPINESS!!
SDG! SDG!
SDG!SDG! SDG!
SDG!
I am so
happy!!
I am gonna eat
everyone’s Biryani at
lunchtime!!
Wait, did I say that out
loud?
Where is the
washroom?
www.says.org.bd
SAYS Off The Record!!!
Its just a pile
of soil Arif!
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First Life Skill Workshop of Peace and
Prosperity and Civic Education Team
-An Initiative to Teach Our Future Leaders Some Healthy
Habits
Tahrima H Moon
On March 21st, Team “Peace and Prosperity/ Civic
Education” decided to start its day differently; they took a
great motive. The team planned to teach the school
going children some basic civic responsibilities and share skills of public speaking. The target group was the students
of Class 3 to 5 and the designated school was “Tejgaon Farm Government Primary School”.
The basic notion behind conducting the workshop was to make the young learners know how they can contribute to
the society by:
First Aid knowledge
Basic awareness about manufacturing date
and expired date of packaged food
Traffic Regulations
Cleanliness
Public Speaking
From the very beginning of the session, the members got a huge response from the curious listeners. They not only
listened to the speakers but also engaged in a one-to-one conversation with them.
The most interesting part of the session was hearing about the dreams of the children by their own voices, as in the
Bangladeshi concept it is generally decided either by the parents or by the grades what a student‟s future should be. It
came as a greater surprise to the members that these children have their own dreams. One thing should be mentioned
here that the children belonged to the underprivileged community where basic needs are supposed to be the main
concerns of the families.
Despite a disadvantaged background, they dare to dream differently, which is praiseworthy. A student of class 4 even
said that he wants to be “A Software Engineer”.
www.says.org.bd
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In the 4-hour long session, the speakers of the team gave practical lessons of: first-aid (speaker was Dr.Tasnuva Nuhat
Shafin), important traffic rules (speaker was Tahrima Hossain), some issues that usually remain ignored but should be kept in
mind for a good health ( Speaker was Mumta Hena Pia), manufacturing and expiry dates while having packaged food (
Speaker was Punna Islam) and fearless public speaking ( speaker was Shatosree Saha).
The biggest achievement of this day-long Civic Education
workshop was experiencing the enthusiasm of these school
children. They were extremely interested about learning.
Their interactive behavior energized the speakers to share
more.
The session ended successfully and cheerfully with these
amazing children and the Civic Education team looks
forward to organize more of such interactive sessions to
nurture the eventual „Civic‟ education of the future nation.
www.says.org.bd
Member Spotlight
Mohammad Nur Nabi Hero
Hero completed Honors and masters from International
Relations department of University of Dhaka. He has
several academic publications.
He has been accepted into the Political Science (Thesis)
MA Program (Concentration in International Relations) at
McGill University for FALL 2015, which is one of the top
25 educational institutes in the world.
Md Ali Haider
Ali Haider Graduated in Islamic Studies from Dhaka
University. He got the NESA Ugrad Scholarship at
International Relations at Fairleigh Dickinson University,
USA.
He got admitted to the 2015 International Summer School
(ISS) at the University of Oslo as a scholarship student.
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www.says.org.bd
Story of Success
Omer Fayshal Pavel
Pavel is a SAYS Senior Member and Facilitator of Community
Development Team. He has recently been selected as Eco Tunza
Generation Ambassador of Bangladesh. Regarding this success,
Pavel shared:
„‟To be a part of positive young mind and active citizen of
Bangladesh, it is my responsibility to introduce my country to
the world from the young generation. It is a great opportunity for
me to share the environmental issues of Bangladesh to world
through “Tunza Eco-Generation” platform-a joint initiative of
Samsung engineering and UNEP.
I believe no one can get leadership skills by born rather it has to
be achieved. We- the youth are the threshold of nation but our talent and skills need a perfect direction to be
utilized, which I got from this wonderful platform “South Asian Youth Society (SAYS) who works on positive
change making”. My ultimate goal is to make the people aware about the health issues and environment by
making a green future. „‟
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Upcoming Scholarships, Conferences and International Programs
WISE Learners' Voice
Applications open until 18.00 GMT - April 30,
2015.
Website:
http://www.wise-qatar.org/learners-voice-6
International Associate for Intelligence
Educate Essay Competition Submissions are due May 3, 2015 at EST
midnight.
Website:
http://tissiccae.web.unc.edu/2015/03/20/submi
ssion-call-for-the-international-associate-for-
intelligence-educate-essay-competition/
Team Newsletter
Editor in Chief: Towfique Ahmad Khan
Executive Editor: Punna Islam
Senior Sub Editor: Rakibul Hasan
Sub Editors: Tamanna Alam Navila and Tanvir Nabil
Special Thanks To: Mahfuzur Rahman Tushar and Omer Fayshal Pavel
Contributors:
Ramisha Anjum Inzamum Ul Hoque Navin Amina Khan
Monojit Saha Abdullah Mahir Masud Tahrima H Moon
Mumta Hena Pia Paromita Reeti Abdullah Mohammed Arif
South Asian Youth Society (SAYS)
Head Office: 407, South Goran, Khilgaon, Dhaka-1219, Bangladesh.
Email: pr@says.org.bd, says.org.bd@gmail.com Voice: 02-7211104.