JCI Dhaka Metro has successfully executed “Project Shopner Tori 2.0,” an impactful initiative designed to empower underprivileged fishing communities. Led by JCI Bangladesh National Vice President and JCI Dhaka Metro Mentor Towfiq Hasan, the project tackles the cycle of poverty by providing essential fishing assets directly to those in need, a press release said.
Breaking the Cycle of Debt Many marginalized fishermen remain trapped in poverty due to their reliance on daily labor or rented boats, which significantly diminishes their income. Recognizing that asset ownership is critical for sustainable livelihoods, Project Shopner Tori 2.0 facilitated the transfer of full ownership of three fishing boats to underprivileged families. This transfer eliminates the burden of daily rental fees and is projected to increase household income by 30-40%.
A Proven System of Prosperity The most remarkable highlight of this second phase is the project’s proven sustainability through its “Revolving Fund” model. During the first phase of the initiative, five fishermen families were empowered and have since achieved financial independence. Showcasing extraordinary community solidarity, these past beneficiaries pooled together 45,000 BDT from their surplus earnings to help fund the boats for the new neighbors in need. This contribution represents a powerful 11% of the project’s total funding, proving that Project Shopner Tori is a sustainable economic engine where today’s recipients become tomorrow’s donors.
Project Execution and Safety Completed over a 10-day period, the project included thorough beneficiary verification, procurement, and a formal boat handover ceremony. Furthermore, JCI Dhaka Metro ensured 100% safety compliance by equipping all distributed boats with essential safety accessories and life jackets, significantly reducing occupational hazards. The organization also demonstrated strong financial commitment by covering all soft costs, such as safety equipment, branding, and transportation, ensuring that 57% of donor funds from Ruhunnessa Trust and Shopnodana Foundation were strictly allocated to the physical assets with zero donor money used for administrative events.
Driving Global Goals Locally By transforming beneficiaries from dependent laborers into independent boat owners, the project restores social dignity and professional confidence. The new beneficiaries have already made a formal commitment to contribute a portion of their future surplus earnings back into the revolving fund to support the next generation of boats.
Project Shopner Tori 2.0 strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically:
SDG 1 (No Poverty): Increasing income and asset ownership for marginalized fishermen.
SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth): Supporting self-employment and livelihood security.
SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): Empowering economically disadvantaged communities.
Through this initiative, JCI Dhaka Metro highlights its commitment to sustainable livelihood development, creating lasting economic impacts for families and local fisheries-based communities.
