Two prominent young leaders from Bangladesh, Umama Fatema and Aysha Siddiqua Tithi, have achieved international recognition by being selected for the highly competitive Tällberg Leaders Mentoring Leaders (TLML) 2026 program.
The TLML program, run by the Swedish-based Tällberg Foundation, identifies and nurtures high-potential emerging leaders from around the world through a year-long, one-on-one mentorship with accomplished global figures. The 2026 cohort includes only 15 mentees selected from 408 applicants across 96 countries.
Umama Fatema was recognized by the Tällberg Foundation as a youth leader and women’s rights advocate who played a key role in the country’s 2024 student reform movement. She continues her work to mobilize youth for impactful social change.
Aysha Siddiqua Tithi was selected for her impactful role as a student activist, particularly for her internationally recognized leadership in the 2024 anti-discrimination movement, and her broader advocacy for human rights and climate justice.
Alan Stoga, Chairman of the Tällberg Foundation, highlighted the need for new, courageous, and values-driven leadership in the world, stating, “The leaders selected by the jury stand out for their creativity, persistence, and recognition that our world is at an inflection point. That is what TLML is all about.”
The selection of Umama Fatema and Aysha Siddiqua Tithi underscores the rising prominence of Bangladesh’s youth-led movements on the global stage, showcasing their commitment to systemic change and values-based leadership. The 2026 program is set to kick off in Tirana, Albania, in January 2026.
