“Where The Kids Have No Name” Awarded at the Prestigious Japan Prize
We’re proud to share that Where The Kids Have No Name, directed and produced by Jamillah van der Hulst of JaJa Film Productions in collaboration with Dhaka Pictures, has received the Japan Prize 2025 (Lifelong Learning Division, L-009) from NHK.
The film offers an intimate look at the lives of children surviving on the streets of Dhaka and follows the dedicated social workers of LEEDO as they reach out to these young survivors with care and persistence.
LEEDO’s Executive Director, Forhad Hossain, traveled to Japan and joined director Jamillah van der Hulst at the award ceremony. During the visit, the documentary was also showcased in a special screening, giving audiences a closer understanding of the realities street-connected children face every day.
The recognition highlights the film’s honest and courageous portrayal of how these children endure constant risks, including mental and physical violence, sexual abuse, exploitation, and the struggle for safety.
Where The Kids Have No Name stands as a reminder of their resilience and the work that must continue to protect and empower every child. Details
LEEDO Strengthens Academic Ties with Nagasaki University
LEEDO’s Founder and Executive Director, Forhad Hossain, recently visited Japan and presented the organization’s work to professors and students at Nagasaki University. The visit created an important platform to discuss potential DrPH research collaboration focused on menstrual health and adolescent development among vulnerable girls in Bangladesh.
During the engagement, meaningful conversations took place on how joint research and academic partnership could further support the wellbeing of children and survivors. LEEDO also reaffirmed its commitment to welcoming international students for internships, offering opportunities for hands-on learning and direct involvement in child-focused programs.
We express our sincere appreciation to Nagasaki University for their support and for recognizing the importance of LEEDO’s mission to protect and empower vulnerable children.
GFC-Juliette Gimon Courage Award
Forhad Hossain, Founder and Executive Director of LEEDO, has been awarded the Juliette Gimon Courage Award 2025 from the Global Fund for Children (GFC). This prestigious honor celebrates organizations like LEEDO that show exceptional resilience and bravery in their commitment to helping at-risk children and youth. The award acknowledges LEEDO’s vital work in Bangladesh, where it provides a safe haven for street children, offering them shelters, mobile classrooms, and support to heal from trauma and abuse.
LEEDO’s courage was especially clear during the COVID-19 pandemic, as it expanded its services to provide food, hygiene supplies, and emergency housing for children who had no other options. This award recognizes LEEDO’s unwavering belief in the potential of every child and its sincere dedication to supporting those who have been overlooked.