From Dreams on Hold to Leading Change: Arman’s Story

In the crowded slums of Chattogram, 14-year-old Arman spent his early childhood watching other children walk to school while he stayed at home. Life in urban poverty meant survival often came before dreams. His father’s daily wages barely covered meals, and schooling felt like a distant hope.

Before World Vision Bangladesh arrived in his community, families like Arman’s were largely unaware of child rights or the importance of education. Poverty forced parents to prioritise survival over schooling, and countless children grew up without access to proper education or opportunity.

Through the formation of an Urban Development Committee and awareness sessions on child rights and education support, perspectives began to shift. Arman’s parents realised that education was not a luxury but a pathway out of poverty. With support from World Vision, Arman enrolled in school for the first time. The support extended beyond enrolment. School supplies, learning materials, and free English classes strengthened his confidence and academic journey. Drawing classes unlocked his creativity, while leadership training transformed his outlook.

Today, Arman serves as President of the Agra Jagaran Child Forum a trained child leader advocating against child marriage and child labour. He also leads community campaigns on environmental protection and dengue prevention.“Through training, I shaped my life. I learned we should live not only for ourselves, but for others,” Arman shares.

His journey is a powerful reminder of how child sponsorship, education support, and community development can break the cycle of povertyArman’s story reflects the power of community development, child sponsorship, and education.