In Bangladesh’s flood-prone northern regions, such as Sundarganj in Gaibandha and Hatibandha in Lalmonirhat, relentless river erosion and floods devastate lives and livelihoods every year. This persistent battle, waged by thousands of resilient individuals who refuse to yield to nature’s fury, takes center stage at “Surging Hope: Stories of Climate Resilience,” a photo exhibition hosted by Concern Worldwide Bangladesh supported by Zurich Climate Resilience Alliance. Launched on October 30 at Aloki in Dhaka, the three-day event shines a spotlight on the lives and resilience of Bangladesh’s riverine communities, a testament to the human spirit’s endurance in the face of climate adversity.
The event also emphasized the urgency of international support ahead of COP29. As global leaders prepare for the climate conference, Bangladesh is amplifying its call for increased climate finance to build resilience across vulnerable communities. “From Dhaka’s slums to its diplomatic zones, climate change impacts every part of Bangladesh,” a spokesperson stated, urging the global community to allocate significant funds to help Bangladesh adapt to and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Through the lens of Saikat Mojumdar, a celebrated Bangladeshi photographer, the exhibition portrays both the despair and determination of these communities. Mojumdar’s images, taken over years of documenting the struggles in flood-affected regions, capture moments of personal loss, resilience, and adaptation. One striking photograph features Ashanur Begum, silhouetted against the setting sun as she gazes across the Brahmaputra River, a silent witness to the land and memories lost to the river’s unyielding current. Yet, Mojumdar balances this sorrow with hope: in another image, Waheda Begum, a 55-year-old resident, tends to a flourishing garden, symbolizing resilience and the drive to adapt. Utilizing bio-compost techniques learned through Concern’s Flood Resilience Programme, Waheda’s green oasis stands as a symbol of defiance against nature’s hardships.
“I have been visiting this region for many years, and there hasn’t been much change in the lives of the people here,” said Mojumdar. “Photography can only capture a glimpse of their reality, but we must bring these stories to national and international stages.” He stressed the importance of equipping flood-prone regions with sustainable solutions rather than relying solely on temporary fixes like embankments.
The exhibition drew diplomats, development organization representatives, journalists, students, young people and the general public, all united in bearing witness to these stories of resilience and survival.
Nayoka Martinez Bäckström, First Secretary, of the Embassy of Sweden, underscored the exhibition’s message of empowerment. “We often fall into narratives of helplessness, but this exhibition shows that people on the front lines of climate change are actively working to make a difference. We need platforms like this to amplify their voices and highlight what needs to be prioritized,” she said.
Masud Jamil Khan, Honorary Consul of Ireland, emphasized the value of educating communities on protecting themselves from natural disasters. “Since 1971, efforts have been made to address flooding impacts that disrupt families, education, and livelihoods,” he noted. “This exhibition is essential in sharing knowledge that empowers people to continue their lives despite these challenges.”
Afsari Begum, an official from Concern Worldwide, underscored the broader goals of the event, saying, “We highlight the different types of climate change vulnerability marginalized people face and what solutions might look like. Some initiatives have been taken to alleviate the suffering of such people, but there is more to do. People live with hope despite so much hardship; everyone should be more zealous to fulfill this hope.”
Concern Worldwide’s Country Director, Manish Kumar Agrawal, shared the broader intent behind the exhibition. “Surging Hope: Stories from Climate Resilience showcases how people in Bangladesh are developing remarkable resilience to climate-induced disasters like floods and cyclones. This exhibition is about keeping hope alive—showing that, with the right direction, we can mitigate the impact of climate change,” he explained.
Adding to the call for sustained support, Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global, stressed the need for immediate, sustained action and international solidarity. “Climate resilience is not just about recovery; it’s about ensuring that these communities can adapt and thrive amid constant threats,” he said. “We need to invest in long-term solutions that support both ecological balance and social well-being, empowering people to take control of their future in the face of climate crisis.”
The resilience stories showcased in “Surging Hope” are more than a testament to endurance—they are a call for action. These images and the voices behind them reflect a continuous journey toward a sustainable, resilient future, urging the world to recognize and support Bangladesh’s fight against the forces of climate change.
