BYLC organizes virtual run to observe International Youth Day

Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, Bangladesh Youth Leadership Center (BYLC) organized its first “virtual” run on Friday to mark International Youth Day. 

Over 500 runners participated in the event, which focused on the theme of fitness to build resilience in young people, the BYLC said in a press statement issued on the same day. 

BYLC, the first leadership institute in the country, has been organizing its “Running with Purpose” event for the past two years to promote a healthy lifestyle among youth. 

"Despite not being able to organize our usual large-scale gathering in the capital, we hope to foster a spirit of community and resilience through our run this year," said Ejaj Ahmad, founder and president of BYLC.

Registered runners from all over the country ran at a location of their choice and had to submit a screenshot from their running app after completing the 7.5km run to receive an electronic certificate, or e-certificate.

Speaking at the event as the chief guest, Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Mayor Md Atiqul Islam said the event was timely. 

“I would like to congratulate BYLC for organizing such a timely event that will surely inspire those participating to stay fit and resilient in the face of challenges,” the mayor said. 

Speakers at the event also remembered mountaineer and runner Reshma Nahar Ratna, who was killed in a road accident a week ago. 

In his closing statement, Ejaj Ahmad stressed the need for exercising leadership to bring systemic change that can prevent such tragic loss of human life. 

"As citizens of Bangladesh, we have a responsibility to create safe spaces in (the) cities. We will be truly honoring Reshma's memory if we take collective action to make roads safer for people," he said.