For nearly 170 years, PIME has served the people of northeastern Bangladesh in the Diocese of Dinajpur, building a lasting presence among some of the region’s most vulnerable communities. For the past 28 years, PIME missionary Fr. Fabrizio Calegari has worked alongside local families, particularly among poor and often marginalized tribal populations who face social discrimination and limited opportunities.
In addition to his missionary responsibilities, Fr. Fabrizio has played a key role in supporting the Diocesan Youth Commission, helping to strengthen faith formation, leadership development, and community engagement among young people. This work is especially important in a region where Christian communities are scattered across remote villages and access to ongoing spiritual and educational formation can be limited.
Recognizing the need to strengthen the identity, faith, and prospects of young people in northeastern Bangladesh, Fr. Fabrizio launched a comprehensive youth development program for 2023–2025, serving about 2,000 youth ages 16 through university. Supported by the PIME U.S. Mission Center and dedicated donors, the initiative provided human, social, and Christian formation through leadership training, health education, recreational activities, community celebrations, and ongoing outreach. A key feature of the program is We Together, a bi-monthly magazine with a circulation of approximately 1,700 copies that shares inspiring stories of local role models, faith-based reflections, practical life advice, and youth successes. Complemented by a strong social media presence, the program helps young people build confidence, develop leadership skills, and cultivate a strong sense of identity and belonging.
Approved again for 2026 with a budget of $14,170, this project will continue empowering vulnerable youth to become resilient, well-rounded leaders capable of creating a brighter future for themselves and their communities. Your support for this project will help these young people through 2026 and beyond.
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