Tanzim Sheikh, a young man from Kalia upazila in Narail, has been nominated for the International Children’s Peace Prize 2026 in recognition of his contributions to mental health services and awareness.
The International Children’s Peace Prize, often described as the “Nobel Prize for children,” recognises individuals who make significant contributions to children’s and young people’s rights, peace and well-being. Netherlands-based organisation KidsRights published information about Tanzim’s nomination on its official website on September 30.
Tanzim is from Putimari village under Khashial Union of Naragati Police Station in Kalia upazila. He is the son of Jahangir Sheikh. As founder and chief executive officer of international mental health organisation PeaceNest, he has been working to make mental health services more accessible and raise awareness among young people.
According to information related to the initiative, PeaceNest has conducted mental health support and awareness programmes in schools, colleges, universities and through digital platforms. Through these activities, more than 320,000 people in different countries have received mental health-related support.
Tanzim has also launched SilentRoom, a platform aimed at providing free mental health support to students. With the assistance of psychologists and psychiatrists, the platform seeks to provide counselling and mental health support based on students’ needs.
He is also working to expand knowledge and awareness about mental health. To this end, he publishes NeuroZen, a monthly magazine focusing on neuroscience and mental health. He is also involved in research and development activities related to mental health infrastructure, the effectiveness of service systems and future approaches.
“Mental health cannot be treated as a luxury. It is an important part of a person’s overall well-being. The mental health challenges faced by children and young people, in particular, must be taken seriously, and safe, quality support should reach them when they need it,” Tanzim said.
He added, “Our goal is not only to create awareness about mental health, but also to build opportunities so that when a young person faces a mental health crisis, they can easily receive the support they need. Families, educational institutions, healthcare providers and policymakers must work together in a coordinated manner.”
Tanzim also has experience working on mental health issues at the international level. He participated as a panelist representing Bangladesh on mental health at International Youth Conference Season 12. PeaceNest is also affiliated with the United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth (UN MGCY).
Tanzim believes the greatest success of his work is not a number, recognition or title. Rather, he considers making mental health services more accessible and ensuring that people receive necessary support when they need it to be the most meaningful measure of success.
“We urgently need peace now. I hope our work and our future generations will gradually take Bangladesh in that direction,” Tanzim said.
The nomination of a young man from a remote area of Narail for the prestigious International Children’s Peace Prize has generated local interest. Those involved hope Tanzim’s initiative will encourage more young people in Bangladesh to engage in mental health, social welfare and humanitarian activities.
