Describe the world you come from — for example, your family,
community or school — and tell us how your world has shaped your dreams
and aspirations.
I grew up in Miami before moving to Bangladesh at the age of 10. I go to an
international school in Dhaka, but I visit the US every summer. I have developed a
unique perspective of viewing my home country, Bangladesh, and am able to look at it
both as an insider and as an outsider. I am acutely sensitive to the tremendous
hardships faced by ordinary people in Bangladesh and also understand that these
hardships are a result of many centuries of unplanned growth, strong prejudices and
lack of education. I realize and understand that most problems have fairly complex
solutions and require concerted planning, widespread education, class action and
substantial funding. I understand the importance of embracing my nation for what it
is, and work in every way that I can to improve the quality of life of its people.
When I began high school in Bangladesh, I volunteered with various service
learning groups. Of these, I connected most with the Acid Survivors Foundation.
During my time as a volunteer, I met many victims of acid violence mostly from the rural
areas. In these villages women and children are attacked by men, and sometimes by
other women for petty reasons such as dowry, jealousy, or land disputes. There I met
Durjoy, an 8-year-old boy, who was fed acid when he was a baby because his aunt was
jealous of her sister for having a baby boy when she only had girls. The acid burned the
boy’s mouth and throat and he now needs to use a feeding pipe for the rest of his life.
As I became close to Durjoy, I wondered what kind of life he would lead, as he grew
older; if this pain and lifetime burden were not enough, society also treats acid victims
as outcasts.
I also met several women who did not let their physical disfigurement affect
their aspirations. They went to university and studied to become lawyers, doctors and
pursue other professions; by example, they have inspired other victims to undertake
similar goals. I used to believe that the victims would not take initiative and fight back
to live a normal life. These women, Durjoy, and the foundation itself have completely
changed my perspective. I feel inspired to continue to make a difference when I
witness their outstanding courage and independence.
By working with other NGOs, such as HOPE Foundation, which provides medical
attention to women and men, I work to combat acid violence, and provide education
about the harmful effects of acid on men and women in villages. As more people are
aware, the cause will attract domestic and international attention. I am inspired by
the strength of these people and know that more will become courageous and
independent in pursuing day-to-day life and soon will be socially accepted. They will be
able to work in any job they wish to pursue, and also become the voice for the
hundreds of women and children who suffer from acid violence. This will hopefully
broaden the minds of many and encourage others to get more involved with this
service.