Twenty-two-year-old Sheikh Masoom of Jummapara village in Gaibanda works in a chicken farm and is an enthusiastic Change Maker of the campaign. He says, “When I talk of domestic violence, people in my village question my credentials. ‘What do you know of such issues?’ ‘Who gives you the authority to speak on such issues?’ they ask. My own brother is upset with me. ‘Why are you drawing attention to our family with your activities,” he asks. But I think I have something to say and I will be heard.

One of my neighbour used to beat his wife everyday. I spoke to him and urged him not to do so. He tried to shoo me away saying that it was a ‘private’ matter in which I had no right to interfere. I argued that if he beat his wife, the practice will gain legitimacy with others in the neighbourhood. His children may follow suit, I cautioned. He seems to have understood my message. He does not beat his wife so often. But we still need to get him to completely stop abusing his wife.

I have also convinced the imam of our mosque to speak on the campaign and the need to end violence against women. On some Friday’s, the imam uses the campaign booklets, leaflets and other communication material to spread the message and speak to people on the issue. I think this is a great contribution on his part and I think it can facilitate a change in attitudes.”