12/05/2026
✨ Successful Completion of the “Digital Defenders Youth Leadership Summit” ✨
📍 Munshiganj, Bangladesh | 09 May, 2026
Subarna Bhumi Foundation successfully organized the “Digital Defenders Youth Leadership Summit” at Subarna Bhumi Resort, Munshiganj, bringing together 25 trained youth leaders from diverse communities across Bangladesh.
The summit was designed to strengthen the growing network of young digital defenders who previously participated in the “Empowered Youth: Safer Digital Spaces” workshops focused on combating misinformation, disinformation, and online hate.
💡 Throughout the day-long summit, participants came together to:
▪ Reflect on lessons learned from the training workshops
▪ Share experiences from digital awareness initiatives implemented in their communities
▪ Discuss current online challenges and emerging digital threats
▪ Exchange strategies for promoting safer and more inclusive digital spaces
▪ Showcase counter-videos and awareness content developed after the training program
One of the key highlights of the summit was the presentation of participant-created counter-narrative videos and awareness campaigns, demonstrating the commitment of youth leaders to counter harmful online narratives and promote responsible digital citizenship.
🤝 The summit was honored by the presence of distinguished guests and partners who shared valuable insights on digital safety, youth leadership, and community engagement:
▪ A key highlight of the event was the active participation of Mr. AKM Akteruzzaman, Additional DIG, Special Branch, Bangladesh Police, who attended as Guest of Honor. In his inspiring remarks, Mr. Akteruzzaman encouraged the youth to translate their knowledge-based learning into meaningful community-level action. He emphasized the vital role of young people in becoming future leaders in the fight against online misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech, while supporting national efforts to create a safer digital environment.
▪ Monzurul Alam, Country Programme Officer, Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI), South Asia — highlighted the importance of long-term collaboration and youth engagement in building safer and more inclusive digital spaces.
▪ Mohammad Zahed Hasan, Director, Subarna Bhumi Foundation — emphasized empowering young people with the leadership and knowledge needed to respond effectively to growing digital challenges.
🌍 The summit concluded with renewed motivation among participants to continue their advocacy, awareness campaigns, and community engagement efforts toward a safer and more inclusive digital future.
📌 Key Takeaways:
✔ Youth leadership plays a critical role in combating online hate and misinformation
✔ Digital awareness must continue beyond training spaces
✔ Collaboration and dialogue strengthen safer digital communities
✔ Counter-narratives can challenge harmful online content effectively
✔ Community engagement is essential for long-term digital safety
🔔 Call to Action:
Pause. Verify. Reflect before you share.
Every action online shapes the digital environment around us — and together, young leaders can create safer and more inclusive digital spaces for everyone.
