Is the definition of talent solely confined to securing a government job? Is the value of a student measured only by becoming a BCS cadre? In Bangladesh, the destiny of meritorious students is still predetermined-BCS, banking, engineering, or medicine. Society's perspective, family structure, and the education system are all interwoven in this narrow path to success. Yet, the reality of today's world proves that creativity leads a nation forward.
A large part of Bangladesh's young generation today wants to choose a career from the heart. Some aspire to be fashion designers, others aim to modernize agriculture, while some discover themselves through theatre or music. But to families and society, these are seen as 'unsafe', 'less respectful', or even 'a waste of talent'. This narrow mindset is constantly extinguishing countless dreams filled with potential and passion.
However, some young individuals have dared to walk against the tide. One such example is Habiba Akter Suravi, a student of Fine Arts at the University of Dhaka. Instead of following the conventional career path, she established 'Sharodindu', a fashion brand rooted in Bangladeshi heritage. Her designs reflect the identity of Bengal. Currently pursuing higher education in art in London, her essence lies in inspiring others by following her own creative journey.
Sunehra Tasnim, who plays a vital role in boosting young women's confidence through online platforms, also chose this path out of her deep love for fashion and self-expression. Her work is not merely about grooming; rather, it's a rebellion of self-assertion against social neglect. Her video content has helped thousands of women to find their voice and the courage to express their identity in a conservative social climate.
On the other hand, Umme Kulsum Popi, a young woman who creates agriculture-based content, spreads the ideas of modern farming. Her mission is clear-to inspire youth to turn to agriculture and contribute to Bangladesh's food security. Agriculture, once seen as a disregarded profession, is now regaining prominence through such creative youth who make it appealing, innovative, and impactful for future sustainability.
These examples prove that creative professions directly contribute to a nation's economy, culture, and progress. According to UNESCO's 2023 report, creative industries generate around $2.25 trillion annually and provide jobs to 30 million people worldwide. Fashion, media, arts, and digital content are powerful streams of the global economy. Sadly, in Bangladesh, these fields are still viewed as secondary or inferior by society and educational institutions.
According to the World Economic Forum, skills like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence will be the most vital by 2025. Yet our national curriculum pays little attention to these. Students study merely for job exams, not for life preparation. The system discourages exploration, artistic thought, or entrepreneurship-essential elements to nurture a generation capable of building a progressive, self-reliant nation in the 21st century.
Have we forgotten that a nation without art loses its vision, and without culture, loses its identity? If life's only goal is a job, where is the space for dreams? A playwright, artist, agri-entrepreneur, content creator, or stage performer can all be national assets. They only need space to grow. Their light doesn't only illuminate their path-it brightens the entire community's future, inspiring new directions for others.
Such transformation cannot occur overnight. For this change, we need a shift in family mindsets, encouragement from teachers, and a complete overhaul in societal perspectives. Without this, countless Habibas will be blocked, Sunehras will lose their joy, and Popis will give up on revolutionizing agriculture. Supporting them is not charity-it's an investment in Bangladesh's future, one that nurtures innovation, inclusivity, and national pride through freedom of thought.
The state must step forward. Promotion of creative education, entrepreneurial support, and patronage of arts and culture must be part of national policy. Just offering BCS routines will never help us find the true talents of our youth. A knowledge-based Bangladesh will only emerge when the state celebrates creativity as an essential pillar of development, and recognizes the intellectual potential in alternative paths to success.
It's time we teach our students not just to ask, 'What do you want to be?' but rather, 'What do you want to create?' If our children wish to become poets, painters, agri-reformers, or educators on YouTube, we must not block their path. Because they don't just change their own lives-they transform society, time, and the very spirit of the nation. This is the freedom creativity grants.
Talent is not just about numerical achievements-it's about depth of vision, freedom of thought, and the courage to do something meaningful. The right to pursue one's calling is the truest form of freedom. This land will truly become 'Sonar Bangla' when its youth sing with pride, paint its legacy, and proudly present Bengal's stories, traditions, and identity to the world. Let the world look upon us with awe.
The writer is student, English Language and Literature, NU
