The nation’s largest public speaking event, Rise Above All, marked yet another successful chapter in its seventh edition. Organized by Don Sumdany Facilitation and Consultancy, the highly anticipated event took place on Friday, 25 August 2023, at KIB Complex, Krishibid Institution in Farmgate, Dhaka, Khamarbari with an astounding participation of more than 3,000 people.
Berger Presents Rise Above All 2023 Powered by Daraz, is the largest and most influential platform for fostering career development and skill enhancement among students, young professionals, and emerging entrepreneurs and showcasing their extraordinary potential. This year’s event featured a remarkable lineup of distinguished guest speakers, entrepreneurs, and visionaries who shared their insights and experiences, inspiring the audience to overcome challenges and seize opportunities.
Among the esteemed guest speakers were, Adil Hussain Noble – Chief Enterprise Business Officer of Robi Axiata Limited, Rubana Haque, Vice Chancellor of Asian University for Women, Shehzad Munim, MD & CEO of BAT Bangladesh, Ayman Sadiq, Founder & CEO of Ten Minute School, Ali Reza Iftekhar, MD & CEO of Eastern Bank Limited, Rupali Chowdhury, MD of Berger Paints Bangladesh, Syed Iqbal Mahmud Hossain, Sales Director of Nestlé Bangladesh Limited, Sabrina Shaheed, Principal of Sir John Wilson School, Zara Mahbub, CEO of Dun & Bradstreet Data & Analytics Pvt Ltd, Nazifa Tushi, Film Actress, and Rakin Absar, Online Content Creator.
Rubana Haque, a prominent advocate for social progress, urged attendees to recognise and confront biases that are eroding the foundations of our society. She stated, “Wash away all biases, because biases are eating away at our society.” Her powerful words emphasised the urgent need for a collective effort to eliminate biases that hinder progress and unity.
Rupali Chowdhury, Managing Director of Berger Paints Bangladesh, addressed the audience with an inspiring message of self-belief and determination. “I believe there is a fear in everyone’s mind that if I can do it. We all have to make that decision so I don’t lose,” said Rupali Chowdhury. Drawing parallels between success and a well-balanced railroad, she emphasised the importance of nurturing both big dreams and courage to overcome life’s challenges.
Ayman Sadiq, a respected voice on youth development, conducted an enlightening session on the preparedness of young individuals for the competitive job market. Ayman Sadiq’s insights shed light on the necessary skills, attitudes, and knowledge required for the modern workforce. His engaging discourse sparked a meaningful dialogue on how to equip the youth with the tools needed to excel in their careers.
Bdjobs conducted a panel discussion on the topic, ‘Rise Above AI’. In this session, Fahim Mashroor, CEO of Bdjobs, corporate icon, Mahtab Uddin Ahmed, and Sadia Haque, Founder and CEO of ShareTrip, discussed the many sides of AI and its many impacts on the job market.
Other speakers included supermodel and corporate icon Adil Hossain Noble, Actress Nazifa Tushi and content creator Rakin Absar who shared insightful discussions and stories from their remarkable journey.
Grameenphone Academy also organised two exciting learning sessions by its employees, Farhana Islam Teresa, Head of Social Impact, and Md. Imranur Rahman, Head of MyGP.
Anisa Murshed, Head of Offline Marketing & Media at Daraz BD, conducted a session about some important points to survive in the corporate world and personal branding.
The event was punctuated by individuals, each showcasing their unique journeys and perspectives.
One of the event’s most captivating moments was when the renowned musician Tahsan Khan shared his life story through melodious tunes, leaving the audience spellbound.
Leading up to the main event, a month-long campus activation program spanning 27 renowned universities and 36 university clubs across the country, amplified the impact of Berger Presents Rise Above All Powered by Daraz.
This year, Rise Above All is partnered with some of the nation’s most well-known brands, including Berger, Daraz, Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, Channel i, Walton, Nescafé, Dabur Vatika, ISHO, Sheltech Group, Monno Ceramic, Shwapno, Kool, Ruchi, RAK Ceramics, Grameenphone Academy, Polar, Fit Elegance, Bdjobs, Dettol, Pepsi, Lays, Perfetti Van Melle, Indulge, Step Footwear, Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel, EBL, Dan Cake, Bruvana, Gloria Jeans, INTRO Card, Carnival Internet, Mustache, Elite Force, Tickify, Dhaka Live, Checkmate Event, ICE Today, ICE Business Time, DS Education and Ikigai HR. This year’s Rise Above All promised to be a spectacular convergence of knowledge and inspiration.
Ghulam Sumdany Don, Chief Inspirational Officer of Don Sumdany Facilitation and Consultancy, adeptly moderated the entire event, guiding discussions and interactions with finesse. The conclusion of this year’s Rise Above All was marked by a heartfelt expression of gratitude towards the esteemed speakers, partners, sponsors, organizers, and volunteers. The event’s organisers promised an even more inspiring and transformative platform for future editions of Rise Above All, driving positive change and disruption.