Bangladeshi Entrepreneur Wins Young Mentor of the Year in Russia
News Editor
Date of News Publication : Sep 1, 2025
At the Global Youth Summit 2025 in Kazan, Russia, Bangladeshi entrepreneur Arafatul Islam Akib proudly earned the prestigious “Young Mentor of the Year – Social Solution Award.” Out of more than 7,000 global applicants from 75 countries, only 500 delegates were chosen—and Akib was the only representative from Bangladesh.
From humble beginnings in Chattogram, Akib started his journey with almost no resources. He launched Startup Chattogram, the first vibrant startup hub outside Dhaka. At times, he worked from cafés, borrowed spaces, or even funded initiatives from his own savings. Despite challenges, his efforts have supported more than 775 entrepreneurs and positively impacted over 150,000 lives.
Akib’s influence has crossed borders. He has judged over 235 startups across 45 countries through the World Summit Awards and brought Google for Startups’ partner platform, Startup Grind, to Chattogram. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: local solutions can create global impact. Accepting the award, Akib remarked, “This recognition is not mine alone. It belongs to every young entrepreneur, every woman entrepreneur, and every changemaker of Bangladesh.
This proves that Bangladesh can claim its place on the world stage.” This remarkable achievement is not just a personal victory—it is a proud moment for Bangladesh, showcasing the strength and potential of its young entrepreneurs and social innovators to the entire world.
Write your opinion