Mohammad Elias Mia, a visionary young leader, has dedicated his life to preserving the environment, combating climate change, and defending human rights. His deep understanding of social and political crises from an early age led him to establish the Center for Environment, Human Rights, and Development Forum (CEHRDF) in 2014. Since then, under his leadership, over 8,000 young volunteers have been actively working toward environmental conservation, human rights advocacy, and sustainable development.
His decade-long efforts have brought significant changes in coastal communities through initiatives like building embankments, planting trees, dredging rivers, and conserving forests—safeguarding the lives of over four million people. He has represented climate justice and environmental advocacy at global platforms, including the United Nations, IPCC, and UNFCCC conferences.
Elias chose activism over government service and business ventures, dedicating his life to environmental and human rights causes.
His leadership has inspired thousands of young people to participate in environmental restoration and climate change mitigation efforts. His work has earned him several international accolades, including the Local Heroes Award from the Charter for Change in 2021.
He currently holds affiliations with over 300 international organizations and forums, such as the Bangladesh Youth Advocate Network and the Bangladesh Youth Climate Coalition. His unwavering determination, sincere efforts, and deep-rooted humanitarian values have made him a significant figure in the global environmental and human rights advocacy movement.
By Rajin Saleh
Photo: Rajin Saleh
