Abul Kashem, who a decade ago was sleeping on the platforms of Chittagong railway station without knowing what a computer was, is now working as a graphic designer at a food processing startup.
Kashem’s journey into design began at Leedo’s Peace Home, a shelter that trains underprivileged children in practical skills like graphic design.
Leedo—short for Local Education and Economic Development Organization—was founded in 2000. Its Peace Home initiative began in 2013.
Currently, Leedo’s Peace Home shelters more than 60 children, all of whom are enrolled in formal schooling.
Inside the graphics design class at Leedo
This Dhaka Tribune correspondent visited the graphic design class at Leedo’s Peace Home. The classroom was filled with children of various ages, each busy with their projects.
“I like designing on Photoshop,” said Mahfuza Sultana Munni, a student of the class. She said that pink is her favourite colour and she tries to incorporate it into most of her designs.
When asked about his aspirations, Md Sojib, another student, said: “I hope to get a job after mastering this software.”
Md Sohel Rana, the instructor and manager of Leedo’s Peace Home, said: “This batch has only had a few classes so far. However, I believe some of them will pick up the software well enough to begin freelancing.”
When asked about Kashem, he smiled and said: “It feels great to see him working now. It is a matter of pride for us.”
Leedo Executive Director Forhad Hossain added: “Our goal is to help integrate these children into society. Alongside formal education, the children receive training in computer operations, graphic design and other technical skills."
“Computer literacy is essential for entering any job sector today,” Forhad Hossain said.
The computers used at the Peace Home were donated by CodersTrust.
Ataul Goni Osmani, former country director of CodersTrust, said: “Many privileged children have multiple devices at home but barely utilize them. On the other hand, underprivileged children, if given the opportunity, can do amazing things.”
“It is now Kashem’s turn to inspire and guide other children,” he added.
Kashem’s path to a new life
Kashem spent his early years collecting plastic bottles from the streets, in the course of which he moved between Chittagong, Sylhet, Rajshahi and Dhaka.
His life took a turn when activists found him at Dhaka airport railway station.
“I finally reached Leedo’s Peace Home in 2017,” Kashem recalled.
It was at the Peace Home where he first learned to use a computer and began exploring graphic designs.
“Before coming to the shelter, I did not even know what a computer was, let alone how to operate one,” he said.
In 2023, a startup named Akorfood was looking for a salesperson. Kashem applied and got the job. After a few days, he approached the owner to share his background in graphic design.
Arifur Rahman, the founder of Akorfood, saw potential in Kashem and gave him the opportunity to work as a graphic designer.
“What I admire about Kashem is his integrity and eagerness to learn. If you did not know his background, you would never guess where he started,” Arifur said.
Kashem now lives at Akorfood’s office, which serves both as his workplace and home—a reflection of how deeply his new life is tied to his job. Still, he remains connected to Leedo.
He is currently studying in the ninth grade under the Technical Education Board and plans to pursue freelancing in the future.
“I still have a long way to go,” Kashem said.
