History of Khulna YWCA

The journey of Khulna YWCA began with the vision of Ms. Asrukana Das, National General Secretary of Bangladesh YWCA, who dreamed of establishing a branch in Khulna to improve the lives of women and young women in the region. Her first visit to Khulna took place in 1981, when she organized a meeting at the Khulna Regional Baptist Church. Present at the meeting were Ms. Margaret ML Baroi, Ms. Shirley Banerjee, Ms. Sandhya Sarkar, Ms. Maculet Sarkar, Ms. Amita Munshi, Ms. Marina Acharya, Ms. Shipra Biswas, Ms. Amita Baroi, and Ms. Anima Baroi. During this meeting, Ms. Asrukana Das presented the vision and activities of YWCA, inspiring the attendees to support the establishment of the Khulna branch. Consequently, Ms. Margaret A.L. Baroi was appointed as President and Ms. Shirley Banerjee as General Secretary.

Following this, the President, Secretary, and other members organized a discussion meeting at the Labor Welfare Office in Khulna to establish the identity of Khulna YWCA. The meeting was attended by 45 participants, including 17 youth members. To provide guidance and support, Ms. Asrukana Das formed an Advisory Council, consisting of Mr. Amlendu Baroi, Mr. Naren Banerjee, Mr. Benu Sajjan, and Mr. Stephen Baroi. In 1983, Bangladesh YWCA officially recognized Khulna YWCA as a branch.

In its early days, Khulna YWCA did not have an office, so activities and meetings were held at the residence of Ms. Margaret Baroi. After about two months, a rented office was established on Haji Mohsin Road. The branch’s initial programs focused on schools and jute craft training. Ms. Roshan Ara Begum from Bangladesh YWCA taught various handicraft techniques using jute, while Ms. Shobha Adhikary managed the jute program and Ms. Neelima Pandit oversaw school activities.

To promote the branch, members participated in fairs, earning funds to support operations. Early on, Ms. Shondha Sarkar and Ms. Dulali Biswas represented Khulna at National Board meetings in Dhaka, gradually expanding the branch’s activities. Over the years, Khulna YWCA has seen the leadership of four General Secretaries, including Ms. Anjana Folia, who served for 22 years, providing stability and vision for growth.

Today, Khulna YWCA implements programs across 11 components, focusing on women’s empowerment, youth development, and employment opportunities. Through cultural programs, training sessions, and leadership initiatives, young women have been empowered to take on leadership roles both locally and internationally. The branch continues to enhance the lives of women and young women in Khulna, creating opportunities, improving social status, and fostering a strong sense of community leadership.

Present Board of Management: (2024-2025)

1. Ms. Shondha Sarker – President
2. Ms. Sumi Halder- Vice President
3. Ms. Darothi Bapari- Treasurer
4. Ms. Ruth Eliza Biswas- Board Member
5. Ms. Luna Samadder- Board Member
6. Ms. Priti Lota Hazra – Board Member
7. Ms. Mrittika Biswas- Youth Member
8. Ms. Oishi Suprova Biswas- Youth Member
9. Ms. Henriyeta Oishi Bapari- Youth Member
10. Ms. Jacinta Mollik- Board Member
11. Ms. Lila Mridha – General Secretary