On 23 April 2026, the Rohingya Youth Development Association (RYDA) launched a three-month Poetry Training Program to nurture creativity, self-expression, and literary skills among Rohingya youth. The training was facilitated by Mohammed Arshad Amin, an accomplished poet and trainer committed to promoting literature and creative writing among young people.

Throughout the three months, participants learned the art of poetry writing, including themes, imagery, metaphor, rhythm, and emotional expression. Through workshops, discussions, and practical writing exercises, young poets strengthened their literary skills and gained confidence in expressing their experiences, aspirations, and identities.

The training provided a platform for Rohingya youth to share stories of displacement, resilience, identity, education, and hope. Many poems reflected the realities of refugee life while envisioning a future of dignity, peace, and justice.

At the conclusion of the training, RYDA organized a Poetry Competition to recognize outstanding literary achievements. The winners were:

Winner: Ro Hamid Ullah for the poem "Who Was I?"

 1st Runner-Up: Mohammed Shohid for "Stateless Behind the Fence"

 2nd Runner-Up: Rejuana for "My Dream"

 3rd Runner-Up: Mohammed Junayed for "Who Told You To Govern?"

 3rd Runner-Up: Mohammed Tukir for "My Identity"

The winning poem, "Who Was I?" by Ro Hamid Ullah, deeply moved judges and audiences alike. Through vivid memories of childhood, forced displacement, the loss of family members, and the struggle for identity, the poem captured the lived experiences of many Rohingya refugees and expressed a profound longing for home and belonging.

The Certificate Awarding Ceremony was hosted by Mr. Furquan Mirza, an IT trainer, who facilitated the celebration and recognized the achievements of the young poets.

The event was honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including To Khin Maung, Member of the President Panel of the United Council of Rohingya (UCR); Mr. Anowar, Founder of ANR Education Light; Sirajul Islam, a prominent Rohingya poet and human rights activist; Ro Hefzu, a respected Rohingya poet; and Mr. Shohid, a high school teacher. Many other Rohingya poets, educators, and community leaders were also present to celebrate and encourage the achievements of Rohingya youth.

Among the guests, Ro Sadeq Hussain, a Rohingya poet, remarked, "This initiative may seem small, but its impact is beyond limit." His words reflected the transformative power of literature in empowering communities and preserving cultural identity.

Participants also shared their experiences and appreciation for the program. Mohammed Ayub expressed, "Art and poetry have the power to change lives. Thank you, RYDA, for giving the youth this beautiful opportunity to explore their creativity and gain unforgettable experiences."

The winner of the competition, Ro Hamid Ullah, shared his gratitude:

"I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Rohingya Youth Development Association (RYDA) for organizing the Basic Poetry Writing Training. This training provided us with valuable knowledge, practical skills, and the confidence to express our thoughts and experiences through poetry.

I am especially grateful to the trainers and organizers who worked hard to make this program successful. I was honored to receive a certificate and be selected as a winner, which has motivated me to continue developing my writing skills.

I hope RYDA will continue organizing similar training programs in the future so that more Rohingya youth can learn, grow, and contribute positively to our community. Thank you for your commitment to youth development and community empowerment."

The ceremony was not only a recognition of literary excellence but also a celebration of resilience, culture, and the power of youth voices. It demonstrated how poetry can preserve identity, promote human rights, and inspire positive change within the community.

Through initiatives like this Poetry Training Program, RYDA remains committed to empowering Rohingya youth through education, creativity, and leadership, ensuring that their voices continue to be heard across generations.

"Poetry is not merely words on paper; it is the voice of a people, the memory of a homeland, and the hope for a better future."