"Witnessing the positive impact it had on young lives inspired me to pursue a path of mentoring and guiding youth," William Nokrek
William Nokrek, a 30-year-old Bangladeshi youth leader and international president of Pax Romana (Roman Peace), the International Movement of Catholic Students, says Catholic youths need guidance strengthening their spiritual and personal growth.
Elected last year, Nokrek began his term in January 2024, which will run until 2027.
Pax Romana, established in 1921, is an international lay Catholic movement comprising two branches: the International Movement of Catholic Students (IMCS) and the International Movement for Intellectual and Cultural Affairs (ICMICA).
IMCS is a global association of students at Catholic universities dedicated to training Christian leaders who advocate for new social systems that uphold human dignity. Members focus on social, economic, and cultural liberation and development.
In an interview with RVA News, Nokrek shared how a transformative encounter during a community outreach program ignited his interest in youth ministry.
"Witnessing the positive impact it had on young lives inspired me to pursue a path of mentoring and guiding youth, nurturing their growth, and contributing to their spiritual and personal development," he explained.
Nokrek hails from Jhaljhalia Parish in the Mymensingh Catholic Diocese of Bangladesh.
He previously served as the Asia-Pacific Regional Coordinator from 2019 to 2022 and is an indigenous member of the Garo community from Kaowakuri, Sherpur, Bangladesh.
With a background in journalism, communication, and media studies, Nokrek possesses a deep understanding of contemporary issues facing young people.
As a journalist, he has championed the causes of youth, especially oppressed populations like Indigenous people, through visual communication and documentation.
Throughout his life, Nokrek has held various leadership roles and participated in numerous movements. For over a decade, he has been actively involved with IMCS-MIEC Pax Romana, primarily as a human rights activist.
His work focuses on protecting the rights of marginalized communities and Indigenous peoples in Bangladesh and the Asia-Pacific region, as well as promoting youth rights, student empowerment, and meaningful participation.
Nokrek believes that youth should act as "agents of social change."
He stated, "I have grown to see and feel that environmental justice, human rights, and the rights of Indigenous peoples have become not only my work and passion but also my core commitment. I think these young people have the power."
Nokrek's dedication and leadership continue to inspire Catholic youth around the world, guiding them toward a future where they can actively contribute to social transformation and uphold the values of their faith.
