Educating the slums

Her childhood was stolen. This week she graduated as a Chemical Engineer in Europe.

Dear Supporters,

We would like to share the inspiring journey of an extraordinary young woman whose life has been transformed through education and opportunity.

I first met Salma in 2008 in a deprived neighbourhood of Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Salma grew up under circumstances most of us can hardly imagine. Her family faced severe hardship. Her father was seriously ill and the family became trapped in debt to loan sharks.

One day, when her mother did not return home, Salma went out searching for her. Tragically, she found her murdered.

In that moment, Salma’s childhood was taken from her.

From then on, she carried responsibilities far beyond her years, helping care for her sick father and younger brother while trying to continue her education.

Despite these unimaginable challenges, Salma never gave up.

Through determination, resilience and remarkable strength of character, she persevered with her studies. Today, she has graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering from IPB University in Portugal, becoming the first person in her family to graduate from university.

Salma’s journey is a powerful reminder of what can happen when courage meets opportunity.

This milestone would not have been possible without the support of partners and supporters who believe in the transformative power of education.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to THE QODE, CIMD Dubai, and Mindvalley, and every single one of you whose support helped make Salma’s journey possible.

Because when a girl is given education instead of abandonment, she does not just change her own life.

She changes the future of an entire generation.

Thank you for being part of this journey and for continuing to support opportunities for young people like Salma.

With gratitude,