The Commonwealth Students’ Association proudly congratulates our Vice President for Democracy & Participation, Shaikh Rifad Mahmud, for successfully convening the Survivor’s Voice Summit 2026 in Dhaka, Bangladesh, through the collaborative efforts of the SRI Welfare Foundation and Survivor’s Path.
The summit emerged as a significant platform for dialogue, advocacy, and action, bringing together more than 650 youth leaders, policymakers, mental health professionals, advocates, and survivors from across different sectors of society. Participants engaged in impactful conversations centered on mental health awareness, cyber safety, youth leadership, and survivor empowerment — issues that continue to shape the wellbeing and future of young people globally.
The event reflected the core values championed by the CSA: creating safe, inclusive, and compassionate spaces where young people are empowered to speak, participate meaningfully, and lead transformative change within their communities.
One of the major highlights of the summit was the official launch of the Monbarta App alongside a 24/7 Mental Health Helpline, initiatives aimed at improving access to mental health support services and reducing stigma surrounding psychological wellbeing in Bangladesh. The launch was inaugurated by Professor Dr. S.M. Abdul-Awal, whose presence underscored the growing importance of mental health advocacy within national development conversations.
The summit also welcomed Dr. Sansila Jabrin Priyanka as Guest of Honour, alongside distinguished personalities including Dr. Md. Zahirul Islam Shakil, Dr. SK Farid Ahmed, and Fahad Hossain, all of whom contributed to the meaningful exchanges and collaborative spirit of the gathering.
Through panel discussions, Survivor Chronicles, networking sessions, and collaborative engagements, the Survivor’s Voice Summit 2026 demonstrated the power of youth-led action in addressing pressing social challenges while advancing survivor-centered advocacy and community support systems.
The CSA commends Shaikh Rifad Mahmud and all partners involved for this remarkable initiative and remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting programs and platforms that promote participation, wellbeing, inclusion, and meaningful youth engagement across the Commonwealth.
