In collaboration with:
The Rajshahi Urban Youth Council (UYC), supported by SERAC-Bangladesh under the SHIFT Project, organised a Night Football Tournament on 1–2 August 2025 in Rajshahi to celebrate International Youth Day. The two-day event brought together young players, community members, and local stakeholders, turning the football ground into a hub of energy, unity, and youth leadership.
More than a sporting competition, the tournament was a celebration of youth agency and community spirit. Under the floodlights, teams of young footballers showcased their talent, teamwork, and resilience, while enthusiastic crowds cheered them on, demonstrating how sport can unite communities across diverse backgrounds. The success of the event is a testament to the dedication of Rajshahi’s Urban Youth Councilors, whose tireless efforts in organising and delivering the tournament embodied the true spirit of International Youth Day. Their leadership illustrates how youth-led initiatives can create meaningful social impact while inspiring civic engagement.
The tournament also highlighted the SHIFT Project’s mission, which strengthens municipal governance by establishing Urban Youth Councils across major cities. These councils provide a formal platform for youth — particularly women, gender-diverse groups, and marginalised populations — to actively participate in decision-making. By promoting equal representation, capacity-building, and advocacy, the project equips young people to influence urban development, policy-making, and service delivery.
Through events like the Night Football Tournament, the Rajshahi UYC demonstrates how youth can be both policymakers and community leaders. Their efforts contribute to Sustainable Development Goals, including sustainable cities, strong institutions, and gender equality, while reinforcing the transformative role of youth in shaping a more inclusive and democratic Bangladesh.
The tournament was not only about winning matches — it was about celebrating youth leadership, promoting inclusion, and giving young people a platform to make a difference. As the floodlights lit up Rajshahi, so too did the aspirations of its youth, showing that when given opportunity and support, they can achieve remarkable outcomes for their communities.
