‘As You Are’: Plan International launches book celebrating all women

Dhaka, 17 Mar - Plan International Bangladesh has recently hosted an event in Dhaka to observe International Women’s Day 2025, and marking the occasion, a book has been launched honouring women and their invaluable contribution to the society, unveiling a unique collection of letters titled ‘As You Are’ (Tumi Jemon).

The launching event was joined by representatives from various embassies, journalists, and media professionals. Through this publication, Plan International Bangladesh has honoured the women who, despite living in a world of inequality, have enriched human civilisation and dedicated their lives to making the world a more vibrant place, according to a press release.

The theme of this year's International Women’s Day, declared by the United Nations, is ‘For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.’ It brought together dignitaries, media professionals, and leaders to discuss gender equality, empowerment, and the role of women in shaping the future.

Andre Carstens, Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Bangladesh; Stéphanie St-Laurent Brassard, Second Secretary of the Canadian High Commission; Md Quamrul Hassan, Chief Business Officer of ACI Consumer Brands; Firoz Choudhury, Assistant Editor, Prothom Alo; and senior journalist and writer, Shahnaz Munni joined the event, among others.

The event opened windows to understand the real and emerging challenges that girls and women are facing in their homes and communities that hinder their overall progress and rights, emphasising the importance of taking swift and decisive steps to stop violence against women and girls, according to Plan International Bangladesh.

The program commenced with a welcome speech from Kabita Bose, Country Director of Plan International Bangladesh. At the event, Second Secretary of the Canadian High Commission Stéphanie St-Laurent Brassard stated, “International Women’s Day reflect on the progress that women have made and the acknowledgement that still a lot of work ahead - especially creating commitment where everyone is safe. We work to create opportunities for women, for a sustainable future for women.”

“We all play a role in speaking up against justice and raising our voices for those who cannot. We need to celebrate the achievements to drive lasting change in gender equality,” she said.

Andre Carstens, Head of Mission at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Bangladesh; said, “The book serves as a platform, including young people and marginalized people, to foster gender equality. In the pursuit of education and women's empowerment, women have proved themselves immensely, and this book reflects those; reminding us of the power of words to heal, expand, and walk the sustainable path towards empowerment. Let this book serve as a bridge to portray women's voices.”

Senior journalist and writer, “Shahnaz Munni said, “Sexual violence is a deep-rooted social ill, and tackling it requires a shift in cultural mindset. We must raise our voices against the barriers women face and acknowledge their silent contributions - only then can meaningful change take place in society.”

Plan International Bangladesh’s initiative to publish the book, ‘As You Are’, was undertaken as a tribute of love and respect to the women of Bangladesh. This collection features letters written by Plan International Bangladesh colleagues and affiliated youth.

Several young individuals from the Rohingya refugee camps have also expressed their admiration and respect for women in their language. Through these letters, they have conveyed their gratitude to the extraordinary women who have inspired their lives.

Plan International Bangladesh remains committed to empowering women and girls, ensuring their voices are heard, and continuing efforts to build a world where they can thrive, as they are. It works to ensure equal rights, empowerment, and opportunities for all so that no one is left behind; and the organisation is dedicated to not only amplifying the strength of girls but also to highlighting everyone’s dedication to supporting girls' concerns and gender equality in the country.