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The third annual Global Biosummit, organised by Director David Kong, the team of Community Biotechnology Initiative and the MIT Media Lab, took place in October at MIT Media Lab, MA, USA.

The Biosummit brought together biology enthusiasts from across the world, who taught and learnt from each other through exciting presentations, panel discussions, group exercises and workshops. With topics ranging from bioart and biodiversity to science communication and bioethics, the event propelled the shared purpose to "fundamentally transform life sciences and to democratize biotechnology, to build an inclusive global network, cultivate an accessible commons of knowledge and resources, launch community labs and projects and enable local educators," according to the programme description.

With over 500 participants, two bright Bangladeshis attended this global movement. They were: Kazi Shahreena Rahman and Salman Khan Promon.

Shahreena, Biotech consultant at Bioforge Healthcare, science teacher at Aga Khan School and undergraduate student of Biochemistry and Biotechnology in North South University, was one of the 30 chosen fellows for the Global Bio Fellowship Program 2019. As the only female Biofellow from Asia, she learned about the power of storytelling and leadership. She gave an oral presentation titled "Bringing Hope to the Slums of Dhaka", highlighting her group's research on the significance of biology education for all. With her newly developed skills she aims to improve Bangladesh's education and healthcare, and strengthen the current biology based community.

Salman, founder of Mechamind, co-presented with Shahreena, program coordinator, for 'Innovation in Biotech' and moderated a panel focused on 'Citizen Science'. Now connected with the members of Biosummit, he will be the head of a Biomedical Research Initiative with other international researchers, to ensure affordable prosthetic section. Through various collaborations, he will aid in bringing donated laboratory equipment into Bangladesh. "It's amazing to discover so many initiatives around the world with common interests and shared goals," says Salman. He also plans to carry forward the specialised training he has received with students and researchers in Dhaka.

After the enriching Global Biosummit 3.0, the two biotech enthusiasts are determined to make positive changes in our society through approachable and accessible life science.