Feature

Behind the Scenes of BBLT 3

SC: How did you recruit the students for this program?

IM: BYLC has a very strong, competitive recruitment process. Since BYLC works with students from three entirely different backgrounds, it takes great care to design questions in a manner that is applicable to all. The candidates are recruited through a three-step assessment function. First, the online or hardcopy applications solicit the candidates' previous educational records, extracurricular activities and reflections on life. Next round consists of a written examination, which is finally followed by a group case discussion and a personal interview. This time from 586 applications, we have enrolled 42 students for the program.

SC: What did you try to accomplish with your leadership program?

IM: BYLC aims to engender an inclusive, tolerant and just society by training the next generation of leaders. It aims to fill the socio-economic and educational void in the society. Through a unique methodology of leadership training, modeled after leadership courses taught at Harvard University, BYLC looks to impart the knowledge of leadership from a totally different angle, in real time where the classroom itself is a leadership laboratory. This addresses the second component of the program. In the last part, the students translate their classroom teachings to their community by designing and implementing community service projects.

SC: What motivated you to join BYLC?

IM: After graduating from IBA, University of Dhaka, I saw many of my friends joining multinationals, local corporations or development sectors. But I was always inclined towards working for a greater cause that is firmly tied to the roots of our society. I felt that BYLC has all the elements in it that aligns with my vision. BYLC strives to change people's lives positively which is missing in our society today. Today's young generation is tomorrow's future. I am a youth myself and I believe that we have the potential to create wonders if we are to dream of a better Bangladesh. By imbuing the next generation with values of active citizenship, we can make a difference in the society.

(Project Manager of BYLC, shares his views with Star Campus)

Quotes on Leadership

Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things.
--Peter F. Drucker

Don't tell people how to do things, tell them what to do and let them surprise you with their results.
--George S. Patton

Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it.
--Dwight Eisenhower

A leader is a dealer in hope.
--Napoleon Bonaparte

I must follow the people. Am I not their leader?
--Benjamin Disraeli

The leadership instinct you are born with is the backbone. You develop the funny bone and the wishbone that go with it.
--Elaine Agather