IFAD Group recently partnered with Aspire Institute to amplify the awareness of the Aspire Leaders Program and the impact of young people as they lead change in communities across Bangladesh. Through this partnership, the team at IFAD has leveraged key activities such as social media campaigns and university visits to learn more about students across the country and share more about the Aspire Leaders Program with them.
Aligning Missions for Greater Impact
Although IFAD Group operates in diverse sectors, including commercial automotive, motorbikes, industrial compressors, fast-moving consumer goods, and information technology, they share a common mission with Aspire Institute. Both organizations commit to supporting young leaders in reaching their full potential. IFAD Group’s mission focuses on boosting Bangladesh’s economy by offering high-quality products, services, and business solutions. They emphasize convenience, affordability, and continuous innovation while actively seeking young talent to join their team.
Inspiring Future Leaders
Aspire Institute’s role in shaping future leaders inspired IFAD Group to enter into this partnership. They hired two associates to spearhead outreach efforts across university partners in Bangladesh.
“Our decision to partner with Aspire Institute was driven by several key factors,” said Tashfeen Ahmed, Vice Chairman at IFAD Group. “First and foremost, Aspire Institute’s mission to empower and support underprivileged communities aligns with our vision of fostering inclusive and equitable environments.”
Empowering First-Generation Students
The IFAD Group team continues expanding the reach of the Aspire Leaders Program in Bangladesh. Their deep understanding of the educational system enhances how we support first-generation university students and recent graduates. Young people in Bangladesh seek opportunities for skill development, global exposure, and confidence building.
“[The Aspire Leaders Program] provides access to resources that might not be readily available to all students, especially those from low-income backgrounds,” Ahmed explained.
Providing Global Exposure and Building Confidence
Together, Aspire Institute and IFAD Group aim to expose young leaders to a global audience and empower them to feel confident in themselves and their potential.
“[The Aspire Leaders Program exposes] participants to global perspectives and practices, broadening their horizons and helping them to think beyond their local contexts,” Ahmed said. “They can build networks valuable for their future careers and build self-confidence. [Aspire] empowers students to take initiative and lead in their communities and professional lives.”
Engaging with Educational Institutions
Over the last few months, IFAD Group has collaborated with Aspire Institute, traveling across Bangladesh and meeting many students and university leaders.
“We have found many young people eager to gain guidance on shaping their careers and entering the professional world,” Ahmed shared. “There is a significant demand among students and recent graduates for programs that offer practical leadership training not always provided by traditional educational institutions.”
A Bright Future for Bangladeshi Youth
This partnership offers Bangladeshi youth the opportunity to engage with a diverse audience and access the Aspire Leaders Program, which remains free and online, regardless of their location.
In just a few months, this collaboration has inspired many young people across Bangladesh to join the final cohort of the 2024 Aspire Leaders Program. IFAD Group expressed excitement about empowering future leaders, facilitating cross-cultural exchange, and finding innovative ways to support students and recent graduates moving forward.
“We have been delighted to collaborate with Aspire Institute,” Ahmed expressed. “We are eager to witness the transformative journeys of the participants and the changes they will bring to their communities and beyond.”
Encouraging Lifelong Learning and Skill Development
Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence are crucial. These skills often distinguish great leaders from the rest.
As these young leaders navigate their journeys, Tashfeen Ahmed encourages them to embrace lifelong learning, develop soft skills, network actively, and stay updated on industry trends.
“Continuously seek knowledge and skills; stay curious and open to new ideas, both within your field and beyond,” he advised. “Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence are crucial. These skills often distinguish great leaders from the rest.”
By partnering with Aspire Institute, IFAD Group plays a vital role in shaping the future leaders of Bangladesh, providing them with the tools, resources, and opportunities needed to succeed in their personal and professional lives. Ultimately, this partnership, alongside other global partnerships, will impact not only these young lives but communities in Bangladesh and worldwide.
