In the Rohingya refugee camps of Cox's Bazar, silent forces have been quietly shaping destinies and kindling rays of hope - they are the humanitarian workers. On this World Humanitarian Day, embracing this year's theme No Matter What, we stand united alongside the communities we support and we unveil the extraordinary journeys of the humanitarian workers deployed on the ground by UNFPA Bangladesh, who are transforming lives and touching hearts with their boundless compassion.
Hadika: a light of compassion and empowerment
Meet Hadika, whose unwavering dedication to humanity has illuminated the lives of many Rohingya women and girls in the past years. Her role as a case worker encompassed much more than a job; it was a calling to heal, uplift, and transform. Hadika passionately delved into learning about violence, human rights, and empowerment, sharing her knowledge with her community and family. Her husband stood by her side as a pillar of support, encouraging her to pursue her noble dreams.
Hadika’s collaboration with the community watch group and volunteers proved instrumental in raising awareness about critical issues like gender-based violence which is normalized in the community. Despite the challenges she faced every day, her determination to continue providing care to women and girls kept her going.
As she reminisces about her journey, she describes, “One day, a mother in distress came to me. She was having suicidal tendencies as she dealt with an abusive relationship with her husband. She was also overwhelmed by financial insolvency and by the need to raise her child on her own. While providing services to this woman, I could somewhat feel what this mother was going through.” She managed the case with compassion and empathy and provided essential psychosocial support to the woman. In this process, Hadika encouraged her to develop her soft skills, such as problem-solving and decision-making. The woman, finding solace and support through counseling, embarked on a new career path and landed a job in a local organization.
While describing her vision, she said,
"I see a day when every Rohingya woman and girl stands tall, empowered by knowledge, and unafraid to shape her destiny."
On this World Humanitarian Day, Umme Hadika stands as a beacon of hope, her dedication to the Rohingya community an embodiment of the noblest principles of humanity. Her story is a testament to the fact that a single individual, driven by compassion and determination, can ignite a revolution of positive change that transcends boundaries and touches countless lives.
Osman: a young catalyst igniting change against gender-based violence
A young man named Osman has emerged as a ray of hope, embarking on a transformative journey as a community change maker towards ending gender based violence (GBV). At just 24 years old, Osman's resilience, empathy and firm commitment have made him a vital force in the promotion of a violence-free community for women and girls, through his active volunteerism with the SASA! Together Program, supported by UNFPA.
In 2019 Osman embraced the opportunity to join this program, which equipped him with the tools and knowledge to address and prevent GBV in his community. Osman received extensive training to understand the complex power dynamics that exist within couples, families and the community at large. He understood that change often begins small but can spread enormously through collective efforts.
“Together in my block, 60 of us are actively working as community changemakers through the SASA! Together Program. I believe that if each of us could transfer knowledge to ten people, the impact would benefit our community greatly.”
One of Osman's defining contributions was his dedication to empowering persons with disabilities. In his community, these vulnerable individuals were often subjected to negligence and harassment. Osman stood as their unwavering champion, igniting conversations in his surroundings that challenged society's perceptions and attitudes. Through his relentless efforts, a community member who is a person with disability - previously mocked by their peers - has joined the cause and transformed into an active and well-respected fellow community changemaker of the SASA! Together Program.
Osman's wisdom extended beyond his years, recognizing the importance of engaging community leaders, particularly the elderly, to usher in widespread change. He fostered open dialogues, rallying these leaders to join his mission of eradicating GBV.
In Osman's vision, everyone in his community shall live a life free from fear and violence. His sister shall be able to walk the path to education without trepidation, and the power to make decisions should rest firmly in the hands of every individual, irrespective of gender. GBV shall be a thing of the past, relegated to the annals of history.
Today, Osman stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity. Through his association with the SASA! Together - supported by UNFPA, Osman has embarked on a quest to transform his community and also the very essence of social norms. As his story continues to unfold, the ripple effect of his actions promises to reshape the lives of countless individuals and pave the way for a brighter, more equitable future.
Senowara: a symbol of strength and empowerment
In the heart of Cox's Bazar, a place that has seen its fair share of challenges, a remarkable tale of strength and empowerment unfolds. Meet Senowara, a young woman whose journey embodies the transformative spirit of education, resilience, and steadfast determination.
At just 22 years old, Senowara's story radiates inspiration. Amidst the trials and tribulations of life as a refugee, she stands tall, a living testament to the force of empowerment. As a single mother, she defies societal expectations, proving that circumstances do not define one's destiny.
She was left to navigate life's challenges solo and embraced her circumstances with unwavering courage. Through her journey, UNFPA Bangladesh's work in Cox's Bazar has been a vital pillar of support.
For the past ten months, Senowara has actively engaged in workshops and sessions on preventing and responding to GBV, facilitating safe referrals and providing appropriate psychosocial support, nurturing a spirit of empowerment that she passionately shares with her community. Armed with knowledge, she is a catalyst of change, inspiring others to stand against violence and champion gender equality. Her determination to bring enlightenment to her community mirrors UNFPA Bangladesh's commitment to fostering safe and empowering spaces within the Rohingya refugee camps.
As a volunteer, Senowara extends a hand of empathy to those burdened by stress and despair. Her genuine concern knows no bounds, particularly evident in her efforts to assist persons with disabilities. From accompanying them to hospitals to ensuring their well-being, she epitomizes UNFPA's ethos of leaving no one behind.
In the face of crisis, Senowara's strength truly shines. While remembering one of the devastating fires which occurred in the refugee camps, she narrates,
“My own household was not impacted, but many other community houses were burnt to ashes. I immediately came to the Women Friendly Space [managed by UNFPA] and offered psychological first aid to people affected by the fire and referred them to appropriate services".
Her work reflects the essence of UNFPA's holistic approach to humanitarian aid.
Senowara's journey from adversity to empowerment resonates deeply with UNFPA Bangladesh's unwavering commitment to catalyzing change within the Rohingya refugee community. Her story exemplifies the shared ethos of resilience and determination and the belief that empowerment begins from within.
On this World Humanitarian Day, we salute the dedication, compassion, and unwavering spirit of Hadika, Osman, and Senowara and the countless other humanitarian workers deployed in the Rohingya refugee camps. Their stories are a testament to the power of empathy, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. Through their efforts, lives are transformed, hope is ignited, and the journey toward a brighter, more equitable future continues. As we celebrate their contributions, let us remember that even in the midst of adversity, humanity's greatest strength is its capacity for compassion and change.
