Women’s national team footballers campaign at BRAC University

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka was joined by Bangladesh national women's football team captain Sabina Khatun and players Maria Manda, Ritu Porna Chakma, and Masura Parvin on 9 December 2024 at the BRAC University campus for an event to promote the USAID Healthier in Motion wellness campaign.

The event brought together students, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts to highlight the importance of physical and mental well-being, emphasising empowering women and girls through activities traditionally dominated by men.

U.S. Embassy Chargé d'affaires Megan Bouldin was joined by BRAC University Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Syed Mahfuzul Aziz and Registrar Dr David Dowland to highlight the importance of creating a supportive environment for women and girls to overcome social barriers and provide equitable opportunities.

The national women's football team joined male and female students in a star-studded futsal match to highlight the role of sports in promoting gender equality and resilience.  Students also engaged in a yoga session led by Shazia Omar, campaign ambassador and founder of Dhaka Flow, fostering a sense of mindfulness among attendees.  The event also featured a series of dynamic sports and fitness activities, including football, yoga, and boxing, allowing students to explore diverse avenues for maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The USAID Healthier in Motion campaign is organised in partnership with Khelbei Bangladesh and Dhaka Flow and underscores the U.S.-Bangladesh partnership to empower women and girls. The campaign addresses social and cultural barriers to promote an inclusive environment where individuals, particularly females, can prioritise their well-being and actively participate in physical activities. Healthier in Motion also features regional and national outreach events bringing together youth, women and communities alongside fitness professionals, health experts and celebrities to champion healthy lifestyles.