A Decade Remembered, A Future Reimagined: Reflections from the Share-Net International Annual Memebers Meeting 2025
On the evening of June 26, 2025, we at Share-Net Bangladesh proudly joined our global colleagues for the final Annual Members Meeting (AMM) of Share-Net International under its current funding cycle. Held virtually, the gathering marked not just the close of a chapter but the celebration of a transformative 10-year journey that connected knowledge, communities, and changemakers across continents.
From the very beginning, the tone was heartfelt and hopeful. Sanne Thijsen from Shake the Dust and Share-Net Netherlands opened the meeting by welcoming members into a space of reflection and shared purpose. This was followed by an opening address from Frank Pot, representing the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who highlighted the role of long-term partnerships in strengthening global SRHR efforts.
A powerful keynote by Sara Mazursky, Senior Programme Officer at Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, reminded us why knowledge management networks like ours are essential, especially at a time when SRHR is increasingly under threat around the world.
One of the most anticipated sessions, “The Future of Share-Net,” was presented by our International Co-Coordinator Dorine Thomissen, followed by a dynamic Q&A with representatives from all eight hubs. Our own Jannatul Munia represented Share-Net Bangladesh, sharing reflections on how the network has shaped national dialogue on SRHR and opened doors for inclusive knowledge exchange.
We were especially moved by the session titled “Stories of Change: Journeys in Our Network.” Moderated by our very own Rifa Tamanna, the panel featured passionate voices, including Khaleda Yasmin, National Coordinator from the Directorate General of Family Planning (Bangladesh). Her insights into SRHR policy and the value of knowledge platforms reminded us why this network matters—locally and globally.
The meeting closed with words from Dorine Thomissen, reflecting on how far we’ve come and the bold steps we must take next. For us at Share-Net Bangladesh, this wasn’t just a goodbye. It was a promise—to hold on to the values we’ve built together, and to carry forward our mission with even more focus and resolve.
As Share-Net International transitions into its next phase, we remain grounded in the strength of our community and hopeful about what lies ahead. The AMM 2025 was a beautiful reminder: though this chapter has ended, our work continues, and our commitment only grows stronger.
—The Share-Net Bangladesh Secretariat
