Khagrachari YWCA: Empowering Women and Communities

History and Formation

Khagrachari YWCA is a non-profit voluntary organization and part of the global YWCA movement. The journey began when the women members of Khagrapur Baptist Church expressed the need for employment and community development programs. Rt. Bakli, a missionary from Bangladesh, introduced them to YWCA and provided books and guidance.

With support from Rt. Bakli, Ms. Asrukana Das, General Secretary of Bangladesh YWCA, and Ms. Cynthia De Rozario, General Secretary of Chittagong YWCA, visited Khagrachari to discuss the YWCA mission. A convening committee was formed to manage the branch’s activities.

The initial committee included:

• Pratima Roaja – President
• Mridu Rekha Tripura – General Secretary
• Sumana Chakma – Treasurer
• Chhaya Rani Tripura – Member
• Bhumika Tripura – Member
• Hiramati Tripura – Member
• Kalyani Tripura – Member

The branch officially began in 1997 with a seven-member board, and soon initiated a Microfinance program in 1998. This program started with 35 group-based members across five villages in four unions of Khagrachari Sadar Upazila: Betchhari, Kamalchhari, Chelachara, Alutila, and Khagrapur. Members accumulated savings and received loans, while income-generating activities included sewing soap and petticoats for sale.

On 13 May 1999, during a National Board meeting at Bangladesh YWCA Bhaban, Khagrachari YWCA was officially affiliated and registered as a branch of the national YWCA under the leadership of Ms. Asrukana Das.

Expansion of Activities

As the branch gained recognition, local leaders generously donated land:

• Ramananda Tripura (Alutila) – 25 acres of hill land
• Nagendra Narayan Tripura (Bailyachari) – 25 acres of hill land

From 2005 onwards, the branch expanded programs in schools, health, adult education, and free schooling, significantly contributing to community development in Khagrachari.

Current Programs

Khagrachari YWCA continues to implement programs focused on:

• Women’s empowerment
• Youth development and leadership
• Microfinance and income-generating activities
• Education and adult literacy
• Health awareness and community services

Board of Management (Current)

• Shapla Debi Tripura – President
• Sisilia Biswas – Vice-President
• Lipika Pathak – Treasurer
• Tulshi Chakma – Board Member
• Milita Tripura – Board Member
• Unesi Chakma – Youth Convener
• Chayanika Tripura – Board Member
• Smriti Roaja – Board Member
• Lisi Tripura – Board Member
• Shuheli Chakma – Board Member
• Puspita Tripura – General Secretary

Vision and Impact

Khagrachari YWCA has grown from a small community initiative into a vibrant center for empowerment, providing opportunities for women and youth to improve their livelihoods, gain leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Through sustainable programs and dedicated leadership, the branch continues to transform lives and foster social development in the region.