Today is International Women's Day - a moment to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievement of women.
We're surrounded by inspirational women at AzuKo, from our founder and female volunteers to women leading the discussions within our projects. We wanted to feature one such individual who has recently been elected to join Jogen Babu Maath (JBM) committee.
Hena is one of five women within the 11 person group, who are acting as representatives for the community. We're working with the committee in our latest project to design and construct a new urban drainage system. We spoke with Hena to find out more about her hopes for JBM slum, and why she nominated herself to make a change in the community.
(Photo: T. Chowdhury)
Hena has lived in JBM for over 10 years with her husband, mother in law and two sons in a small earthen dwelling. During the day she works as a cook for another family and rolls poppadoms on the side, earning around 700 BDT (£6.27) per month. Her passion is for social work, and she dreams of providing sewing training within the community.
In December 2015 we facilitated a democratic election, asking individuals to nominate themselves for specific roles within the committee. Hena ran for Assistant Secretary. In Bangladesh, nominees typically choose a symbol for their campaign to emphasise what they stand for and who they are as individuals.
“My election symbol was a rose. They are beautiful flowers which symbolise success.”
(Image: SAFE)
(Photo: T. Chowdhury)
“I ran for Assistant Secretary so that I could help develop my community. I would like to see improvements to housing, sanitation and the general environment.”
Hena's role is to support the General Secretary during meetings - preparing the agenda, recording minutes and dealing with correspondence from the community. Alongside the physical improvements, Hena is keen to discuss education for the new generation and employment opportunities for all. With women like Hena engaged in JBM's future, there are certainly exciting times ahead.
If Hena’s ambition strikes a chord, why not donate direct to the project? You can help improve living conditions in JBM slum.
#IWD2016 #PledgeForParity
Author: J. Ashbridge