Six rural women have received 'Alokito Grameen Nari Shommanona 2021' for their outstanding leadership or contribution to the community.
In association with Manusher Jonno Foundation and UK Aid, Alokito Shishu Foundation and Volunteer Opportunities recognised the contribution of the six women with the award during a ceremony at Krishibid Institution Bangladesh (KIB) auditorium in Dhaka on Friday.
The initiative was taken to uncover the stories behind the success of enlightened rural women with the view of International Rural Women's Day, which was observed on October 15.
The winners got the award under the ‘Rural Women Entrepreneurship’ and ‘Rural Women Leadership’ categories.
Shapla Debi Tripura, Shirin Akhter Nipun and Jamila Begum got the award under the ‘Rural Women Entrepreneurship’ category.
After receiving the award, Jamila Begum said, "I am a woman butcher and when I chose this life, many people did not take it easy and bad-mouthed. But now, as I am receiving honour from different places for my work, I don't look back and regret."
Under the ‘Rural Women Leadership’ category, Khujista Begum Jonaki, SabitriHemobromo and Monish MeemNipun were honoured with the award.
During the event, eleven thousand written pledges of students from thirty educational institutions across the country to ensure the dignity, recognition and rights of rural women were handed over to'Manusher Jonno Foundation.
Lawmaker Aroma Dutta was present at the event as the chief guest.
"The winners of today's event are the pioneers and pride of our country," she said expressing gratitude.
Various resource-persons were also present at the event. They focused on the recognition of rural women's work and overcoming the discrimination between men and women and becoming 'human' as a whole.
They also praised the organisers and believed that such a type of initiative would inspire more rural women to overcome their barriers.
Actress and Activist Shampa Reza said, "The difference between men and women is only external, hence we should penetrate this wall and nurture what we are within."
The Alokito Shishu Foundation provides quality education, life, and leadership skills to brighten the future of marginalised rural communities in Bangladesh.
Volunteer Opportunities of Bangladesh is the online-based platform as well as the first Volunteer Bank of volunteers all over Bangladesh which includes an efficient, literate, and energetic young generation of Bangladesh.
