A young girl named Poly from Dhaka had the opportunity to take over Microsoft Bangladesh’s managing director (MD) position for a day today (7 October).
There, she symbolically carried out the roles and responsibilities of Yousup Faruqu, the company’s current MD, reads a press release.
This inspiring takeover is part of Plan International Bangladesh’s efforts to celebrate the upcoming International Day of the Girl Child on 11 October.
Poly, a passionate advocate for adolescent rights in her community, has been actively involved in raising awareness about issues like sexual and reproductive health, ending child marriage, and promoting education for all children.
Her leadership experience as Microsoft’s MD for a day aligns with this year’s International Day of the Girl Child theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” declared by the United Nations.
Speaking about her experience, Poly said, “This takeover experience has given me a lot of confidence. Through this, I will be able to inspire other girls and children in my community. I want to work for women, girls, and children so they can live independently in the future. I believe we all have the power to change society, and we need to use that power effectively.”
Poly’s takeover is part of the GirlsTakeover campaign, an annual global initiative by Plan International that promotes girls’ leadership and challenges gender stereotypes. This year, Plan International has adopted the theme “Unite for Peace,” drawing attention to the struggles girls face in conflict zones and other challenging environments.
Yousup Faruqu, managing director of Microsoft Bangladesh, expressed his excitement about the initiative, stating, “We are thrilled to join forces with Plan International Bangladesh on this special occasion. Together, we are inspiring young girls to break barriers and pursue their dreams.
“This year’s theme, ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future,’ perfectly aligns with our commitment to fostering growth in Bangladesh through AI innovation. By empowering young girls to lead, we are helping shape a future where they can thrive and make meaningful impacts.”
This empowering event is part of a broader campaign where girls from different regions of Bangladesh are taking over key roles in various organizations, embassies, and corporations. The initiative aims to motivate and equip girls with the confidence to challenge societal barriers, embrace leadership roles, and advocate for gender equality.
Plan International’s GirlsTakeover campaign is a powerful symbol of the potential girls have when given equal opportunities. The organization hopes this event will serve as a reminder of the global need to support girls’ rights and amplify their voices, ultimately creating a future where girls can flourish without limits.
