Social Media Driving Social Change | Md. Abdul Quayyum | TEDxGulshan

Communication is often considered fundamental to the existence and survival of humans. But what happens when someone cannot communicate effectively? How does social media contribute to developing deeper communications in today’s age? Md. Abdul Quayyum shares an inspiring journey from grappling with communication challenges a decade ago to the present moment and then transitions to a universally relevant topic—social media. He presents Jabbar Boyati's story, a fisherman from a rural village of Bangladesh, through which the audience witness the devastating impact on vulnerable lives, connecting them emotionally to the harsh reality of climate change. Millions of underrepresented voices, like Boyati’s, are highlighted everyday through social media. Qayyum encourages these highlights with actionable steps, stressing about similar issues such as reduced energy consumption, sustainable practices, informed advocacy, and the use of social media for addressing these initiatives. With over two decades of experience in development communications, including a decade in leadership roles, Md Abdul Quayyum consistently driven impactful communications strategies in diverse settings. His expertise spans media management, digital communications, behaviour change campaigns, crisis communications, and partnership building for resource mobilisation. Currently, as Head of Communications at UNDP Bangladesh, Md Abdul Quayyum led transformative efforts, elevating digital presence and media reach and fostering a culture where communication is key to success. With academic roots in Mass Communication and Journalism, he is poised to drive positive change through strategic communication. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx