Take five : “When you build trust and stand firm, no one can take that power away”

Author: Mubassira Tabassum Hossain and Shararat Islam

Taposhi Dey Prapti, 24, is a young feminist activist and student leader from Bangladesh. An economics student at Jahangirnagar University, she was among the student leaders of the July 2024 anti-discrimination movement, which contributed to major political change. In 2020, she also played a key role in mobilizing the Rage Against Rape movement. Taposhi collaborates with development partners and civil society to promote young women’s political participation and advance gender equality.

One year on from the anti-discrimination movement, what stands out to you most when you reflect on your personal journey and the collective efforts of young women leaders during that time?

The most powerful part of the July movement for me was the strength of women. When students and later police attacked us, I witnessed remarkable bravery from female students. Many women who typically stayed out of activism, came out and marched in protest, which was deeply moving.

I was on the frontlines and the first Bangladeshi student to speak out globally. I found my power in the sisterhood, in the support of the peers who stood with me. It was the active participation of women that made the movement successful.

What unique challenges and opportunities did you encounter and how did they shape your leadership style?

Despite being a recognized student leader, I experienced the struggle of being sidelined. Silencing me in different ways was their way of taking power back.

With armed police nearby and hundreds of female students mobilized, it was the female students who placed their trust in me—and many male students, recognizing real leadership, stood by my side. Those who tried to sideline me had no choice but to listen, because the people demanded it. When you build trust and stand firm, no one can take that power away.

What are your aspirations for the future, both personally and for the broader movement of young women in political spaces?

My life is rooted in movement, in solidarity, and in standing up. I have realized that people will try to snatch my words and put theirs in my mouth to vanish me but I have to stand firm. I realized that people don’t fear who I am—they fear the power of my voice, my integrity, and my courage.

In moments of uncertainty, I take inspiration from the legacy of Bangladeshi women who have long fought for justice. The power of women who continue to resist and lead, even in silence, is what keeps me going.

What might be your key recommendations to ensure the voices of young women are not only heard but meaningfully included in decision-making processes?

If you're a woman, you must claim your rights, demand space, and assert agency. It’s never handed to you; you must take it. If you step back because no one is giving you power, you're letting patriarchy win.

Beware of tokenism and shadow politics. Space gained by mimicking oppression isn’t real. Your voice must be your own. Speak your truth: loudly, clearly, and unapologetically. Whether you lead from the front or from behind the curtains, never surrender your voice. This is your space too. Own it!

What can the political parties do differently to move beyond statements of support and genuinely empower young women leaders in politics?

If political parties truly want to include young women, they need to stop thinking they know better just because they are older or male. Be open to listening, especially to those who challenge you. That’s how true change begins.

Parties must also address the misogyny, sexual violence, coercion and threats women activists face daily both online and offline- and ensure at least 33 per cent representation of women in all committees. Real inclusion is recognizing women as thinkers, leaders and decision-makers.