ABOUT THE MILLENNIUM FELLOWSHIP - CLASS OF 2025
United Nations Academic Impact and MCN are proud to partner on the Millennium Fellowship. This year, 60,000+ young leaders applied to join the Class of 2025 on 7,000+ campuses across 170 nations. 290+ campuses worldwide (less than 5%) were selected to host the 4,500+ Millennium Fellows.
UNITED NATIONS ACADEMIC IMPACT AND MCN PROUDLY PRESENT FARIA SIDDIQUE, A MILLENNIUM FELLOW FOR THE CLASS OF 2025.
BRAC University | Dhaka, Bangladesh | Advancing SDG 3, SDG 4 & UNAI 8
" Every step I take toward acceptance is my way of showing that true change begins with empathy. I believe that with the right guidance, thousands of others will also come forward, each taking their own steps to break stigma, embrace inclusion, and give dignity where it has long been denied. I do this work because I know that silence and shame should never define a person’s life, and I want to help build a world where compassion replaces judgment. The Millennium Fellowship is an opportunity for me to strengthen this journey—not only to walk my own path of change but also to inspire countless others to take theirs, so that together, our steps become a movement toward lasting acceptance. "
Millennium Fellowship Project: Step Towards Acceptance
People with Down syndrome are discriminated till now, so many families feel rather ashamed and stay isolated. Consequently, most of them are stuck at home with limited ability to learn about the world.The project aims to promote awareness, acceptance, and a positive environment for people with Down syndrome and their families in Bangladesh. As the director of the Brac University Health and Safety Club, I have already collaborated with hospitals and organizations across the Asian region.It also includes the publication of booklets containing experiences and incidences of families that have been affected by Down syndrome and improved healthcare and improved school systems. It involves conducting forums, publishing booklets, and holding feedback workshops to determine if families receive the support they need. Sessions can be accessed online, allowing those unable to travel to Bangladesh to participate. After conducting the first stage of work, representatives will continue working with registered families and organizing seminars for new participants, ensuring the community grows and benefits more people. This project aims to create a cascade effect for the community.
About the Millennium Fellow
Faria Siddique is a student doing double major in Biotechnology and Microbiology at BRAC University in Dhaka, Bangladesh, driven by a deep passion for making a difference in people’s lives. Growing up, she witnessed how stigma and silence can isolate individuals and families, especially those dealing with challenges like Down syndrome. These experiences shaped her commitment to create awareness, break barriers, and build communities of empathy and support. Her journey has already included leading projects that address mental health, bullying, and social exclusion—always with the belief that small actions can spark lasting change. She dreams of a world where every individual, regardless of their circumstances, is given dignity, acceptance, and opportunity. Beyond her studies, Faria is motivated by the hope of using science and compassion hand in hand, inspiring others to stand for inclusion and human connection. She aspires to dedicate her future to work that not only advances knowledge but also uplifts communities, reminding the world that change begins with courage and care.
