EMK CENTER
The EMK Center is dedicated to advancing democratic values, promoting human rights, and fostering freedom of expression. We strive to create inclusive economic growth by supporting arts and culture, entrepreneurship, science and technology, youth engagement activities, and opportunities for women and underserved communities. Our Center also focuses on addressing environmental challenges through innovative community solutions and raising awareness among youth about the adversities of climate change. We are committed to increasing opportunities for historically underrepresented Bangladeshi youth, including indigenous and religious minority communities. We promote arts and culture by targeting emerging and aspiring artists, showcasing local heritage, and nurturing talent. Through our wide range of programs and initiatives, the EMK Center aims to make a positive impact on society and empower young change-makers to create a better society.
Established in 2012, the Edward M. Kennedy Center (EMK Center) is the flagship American Space in Dhaka, Bangladesh. It serves as a platform for open dialogue, artistic expression, and personal development. Through collaborations and programs, it promotes cultural exchange, youth empowerment, and social justice. The EMK Center is co-managed by the Public Diplomacy Section of the U.S. Embassy Bangladesh and the JAAGO Foundation.
One of the key objectives of the EMK Center is to facilitate cultural exchange and foster mutual understanding between Bangladesh and the United States. Through its collaborations with the Public Diplomacy Section and the Office of American Spaces, it brings together individuals from different backgrounds and encourages dialogue on shared values, ideas, and experiences. The Center provides a platform for aspiring and young artists, writers, activists, and intellectuals to showcase their work and engage with the community. It offers opportunities for emerging talents to develop their skills and expand their horizons through artistic residencies, mentorship programs, and capacity-building initiatives.
The EMK Center places great emphasis on youth development and women’s empowerment. It organizes leadership programs, entrepreneurship workshops, and skill-building sessions to nurture the next generation of change-makers and social innovators. By equipping young individuals with the necessary tools and knowledge, the Center aims to create a positive impact on society and contribute to the overall development of Bangladesh.
Mission & Vision
The EMK Center is driven by its mission to actively engage, inspire, unite, and empower individuals from diverse backgrounds, irrespective of age, race, or socioeconomic status. Guided by American Spaces’ fundamental principles—English Language Teaching and Learning, Entrepreneurship and Skills Building, promoting Arts and Culture, Advancing STEM through MakerLab Activities, and EducationUSA Advising—the EMK Center aims to create a transformative environment for Bangladeshi youth.
The EMK Center acknowledges that every individual has the potential to make a difference, whether through volunteerism, profession, or entrepreneurial endeavors. Recognizing the immense impact public service can have on society, the Center provides support to organizations and individuals dedicated to investing their time and efforts in improving the lives of youth. Their goal is to connect individuals and organizations, provide them with the necessary support, and facilitate collaborative synergy that aligns with the short-term and long-term vision of Bangladesh.
Goals
Advancing democratic values through the promotion of human rights, civil society activation, freedom of expression, press freedom, disability rights, and good governance; Promoting inclusive economic growth and opportunities through entrepreneurship development that empowers underserved communities and youth, and explores the benefits of expanded trading opportunities between the United States and Bangladesh.
Supporting innovative community solutions for environmental challenges and raising awareness among youth on the impacts of climate change; Increasing opportunities for Bangladeshi youth from historically marginalized communities (e.g., indigenous, religious minorities, etc.) through STEM education; and Promoting arts and culture targeting emerging and marginalized artists, showcasing local heritage and talents.
Video Tour
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Branding
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Media Coverages
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