Faez Belal named lead judge for Diana Award 2026
Faez Belal, a prominent Bangladeshi entrepreneur, has been named Lead Judge for the 2026 Diana Award, one of the world's most prestigious honours for youth leadership.
Organisers said the appointment recognises Bangladeshi youth leadership on the global stage.
Established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, the Diana Award honours young people for their contributions to social action and humanitarian causes. Diana Award closed on 31 October 2025. Recipients will be announced on 4 November 2026.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Faez Belal received the Diana Award in 2022 for his work in social development and youth leadership. He later served as a judge in 2024.
Building on that experience, he was elevated to the position of Lead Judge this year.
In addition, he is the Founder of Bangladesh Youth Society (BYS) and Chief Executive Officer of BYS Ventures.
Belal also serves on the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Global Youth Advisory Board.14 as a higher secondary student, the organisation has since grown significantly.
Today, the organisation engages nearly 10,000 young members in youth development, social innovation, and implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
From its beginnings in Barishal, BYS has expanded its footprint nationally and internationally under Belal's leadership.
BYS has launched the "BYS Global Network" to further extend its activities and impact worldwide.
Over the past decade, Belal and his organisation have promoted quality education, gender equality, climate action, peace, and tolerance.
As a result, their contributions have earned national and international accolades.
According to organisers, BYS initiatives—including "Abhoy", "Girls Summit", "Shopnojoy", "Shomporke Bhalo Thakuk Desh", "She Is The First", "Ami Theke Amra", and "Youth Fest"—have reached an estimated 1 million participants over the last 12 years. In addition, the organisation operates over seven social business ventures.
The organisation also operates over seven social business ventures.
"My journey from Barishal has given me the opportunity to work on a global platform. I view this as recognition of the potential of Bangladeshi youth, rather than a personal achievement," Faez Belal said.
"Serving as a judge for the Diana Award, I have realised that leadership is defined not by age, but by innovative ideas and the ability to drive change," he said.
Belal added that Bangladeshi youth are already making significant contributions on the global stage, and he believes that impact will only grow in the coming years.
"I believe their impact will only grow in the coming years," he said.
For more than 25 years, the Diana Award has recognised youth-led social initiatives worldwide.
