Three organizations and two grassroots entrepreneurs have been honored with the Feminist Green Action Award 2026 for their work in environmental sustainability, climate action and inclusive economic growth.
The award, introduced by ActionAid Bangladesh in 2025, was presented for the second consecutive year at a gala ceremony held at a hotel in the capital on Wednesday night. It recognizes individuals and organizations promoting a feminist green transition and sustainable economic practices.
This year’s awards were given in two categories — Youth-led Green Entrepreneurship and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
In the Youth-led Green Entrepreneurship category, Swaccha and World Linkup were recognized for their initiatives. Swaccha was awarded for its waste management and recycling work, while World Linkup was honored for engaging young people in climate awareness activities and promoting the use of green technology.
In the SME category, Classical Handmade Products BD Ltd received recognition for producing eco-friendly handicrafts using locally sourced raw materials, contributing to both environmental sustainability and income generation.
Two grassroots entrepreneurs also received special recognition.
Sharmin Akhter, a woman entrepreneur from Bogra, was honored for creating employment opportunities for more than 200 people, including women and persons with disabilities, through the production of ropes made from discarded fabric and leftover yarn.
Soleman Ali, known as the “Solar Man” of Thakurgaon, was recognized for developing an affordable solar-powered irrigation system for farmers. His mobile pump model has helped farmers cope with electricity shortages and reduce dependence on conventional energy sources.
Speaking at the event, ActionAid Bangladesh Country Director Farah Kabir said the award reflects the organization’s commitment to recognizing young entrepreneurs and SMEs working towards a just and feminist transition.
She said the initiative could play an important role in building a sustainable, inclusive and greener world.
Farah Kabir also expressed concern over what she described as a growing tolerance of violence against women and children and challenges to the rule of law, stressing the need for broader social transformation alongside environmental action.
Ekushey Padak-winning actor and social activist Afzal Hossain, speaking as a spotlight guest, highlighted the link between women, nature and human responsibility.
“Whether I consider myself a feminist or not is secondary. I believe this world is essentially a school of perception learned from women,” he said, adding that women nurture and protect society much like nature sustains life.
Citing a dialogue from a play by dramatist Selim Al Deen, he called for collective responsibility in addressing climate challenges.
“To be alive is not the main point; how we live is what matters. In this climate fight, we cannot think of surviving alone. We must be like water, whose strength lies in holding and floating others,” he said.
Barrister Nihad Kabir, another spotlight speaker, said legal frameworks alone are not enough to ensure sustainability and social justice.
She said lasting change depends on shifts in human values and behaviour, stressing the role of family and social norms in preventing violence against women and children. She also underscored the importance of engaging young people through storytelling and dialogue rather than relying solely on regulation.
According to ActionAid Bangladesh, 27 applications were submitted online for this year’s awards. Winners were selected by an independent jury comprising sustainability experts, development practitioners and business leaders.
The program ended with a cultural performance by singer and activist Warda Ashraf, who performed songs on climate change, women’s rights, justice and collective struggle.
ActionAid Bangladesh launched the Feminist Green Action Award in 2025 to recognize businesses, entrepreneurs and organizations contributing to a feminist green transition.