Shah Rafayat Chowdhury, Co-Founder and President of Footsteps Bangladesh, has been honoured with the prestigious Queen Elizabeth 100 Young Leaders Award. The award has been announced in remembrance of the 100th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, celebrating exceptional young leaders across the Commonwealth who are driving meaningful change in their communities. Since co-founding Footsteps Bangladesh in 2013, Rafayat Chowdhury has played a pivotal role in advancing innovative solutions to some of the country’s most pressing environmental and development challenges. Under his leadership, the organization has spearheaded initiatives in climate resilience, renewable energy, waste management, and ecosystem restoration—impacting thousands of lives across urban and rural Bangladesh.
Through projects such as solar electrification for off-grid communities, nationwide canal restoration campaigns, and youth-driven environmental advocacy, Chowdhury has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to building a more sustainable and inclusive future. His work has not only addressed immediate community needs but has also contributed to long-term systemic change in Bangladesh’s development landscape.
“I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition, which reflects the collective efforts of the entire Footsteps Bangladesh team and our partners,” said Chowdhury. “This award is a reminder that young people have the power to lead transformative change, and it strengthens our resolve to continue working towards a greener, more resilient Bangladesh.”
The Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Trust’s 100 Young Leaders Award recognizes individuals who embody the values of service, innovation, and leadership—principles that defined Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s legacy. Chowdhury joins a distinguished group of changemakers whose work continues to inspire global action for sustainable development.
As Bangladesh faces increasing environmental and climate challenges, leaders like Shah Rafayat Chowdhury are at the forefront of driving impactful, community-led solutions. This recognition further amplifies his mission to empower the next generation and accelerate progress toward a sustainable future