Brands are the key to Bangladesh’s Opportunity of a Lifetime

Mass e Bhat: 70 minute documentary treatment

The Battle of Plassey Young People’s Project

Bangladesh Visit in February by Dr Wali Tasar

Bangladesh Flood Fundraiser Event Raises £5000

Shahin Badar 'Glory of India Award Winner'

Girls Orphanage BritBangla Fundraiser Update

BRAC: brings third world development successes to UK

The Women Who Left the Village Inspirations Exhibition

The Beauty of Bangladesh Personal account by Ishrat-Jahan Chowdhury

Shahin Badar Tours Lebanon and Germany

BritBangla Celebrates Book Success

Bangladesh Opens its doors to UK Investors

Brands are the key to Bangladesh’s Opportunity of a Lifetime
Toffael Rashid

In 2002 the acronym BRIC entered into financial and corporate language. Reputed investment bank Goldman Sachs had analyzed developing economies and identified Brazil (B), Russia (R), India (I) and China (C) as 4 countries that should receive focused investment as they were on the verge of explosive growth. At the time I was living and working as an expatriate in Mumbai for my then employer Unilever. Being British born and thus growing up in a very developed consumer economy, I was used to a very different way of life. Mumbai still had one foot in the past although the many signs of India’s dynamic growth story were very much in evidence.

The most vivid example of explosive growth I remember came from my daily listening of the car radio on the way to work. In 2002, India’s radio service was state owned, in Mumbai there were only 2 radio stations which broadcasted through medium wave and with a very limited menu of news and debates. Radio played a miniscule role in society and those who even owned one had very old machines capable only of broadcasting medium and long wave. Music was not played nor was their any radio advertising. And this in the city that hosts Bollywood with all its music and artists!

In 2002 the government privatized the radio industry. Six new FM radio stations were launched with great brand names like Radio Mirchi. Each of these stations was targeted at particular demographic and filled with music, phone-ins, radio drama and sports coverage. Suddenly everybody wanted to listen to the radio. Some very smart entrepreneurs imported laks of those slim credit card like radio receivers each with a small ear piece. In the space of a few days these small devices costing 100 rupee’s each were being used by everybody in the city: be they students, corporate execs, auto rickshaw drivers or fresh fruit market wallahs.

And so life as it had once been lived changed in a small but significant way. Today the industry is thriving employing many trained people who produce radio channels of high quality and which is part funded by radio advertising; a profitable industry built from scratch in less than 5 years.

The India growth story has of hundreds of examples similar to my radio example. Two factors keep its economy growing. The first is the mass migration of rural people into urban environments at a rate never experienced before in the history of the planet. As tens of millions of new people arrive with the ambition of a better life, working people already in the cities upgrade to the middle classes with more income than ever before to spend on consumer goods that better their lives in some way.

This ancient and historic nation is being utterly transformed by the proven model of capitalism. As new sectors emerge, many new brands are launched. Consumers in India have never had so much choice. And no matter whether it is from a multinational or a local company, it is through brands that consumers are making their choices.

With the BRIC economies fully set on the road for transformation, Goldman Sachs sought to identify the next developing markets ripe for growth. After applying rigorous criteria, 11 nations were identified, the so called ‘next 11’ or N11 nations. These include countries such as Iran, Mexico, Vietnam, Indonesia … and Bangladesh.

Bangladesh was identified as an N11 for many attractive reasons including its young, dynamic entrepreneurial and cost competitive labour force, opportunities to replicate its successful garments/textiles business model to other industries such as outsourcing and pharmaceuticals, having an investor friendly regulatory environment as well as the large natural resources in natural gas and coal. Last but not least, it occupies a strategic location between India and China in the heart of Asia. And so a golden opportunity awaits.

The transformational stories emerging from China & India indicate that if replicated, Bangladesh has as much economic potential. With Goldman Sachs ‘N11’ recommendations ringing in their ears, multinational corporations, investment speculators and public sector NGOs are analyzing the opportunities Bangladesh presents. It is literally a once in a lifetime opportunity; possibly the historic catalyst Bangladesh has been waiting for since its birth. And it’s finding plenty to get excited about. So all the possibility of a future full of promise.

However, there is a big danger that unless Bangladeshi entrepreneurs recognise this opportunity quickly, foreign outfits will steal the market place … and those profits forever! The key question for Bangladeshi’s is to ensure they benefit from the potential economic boom that ‘N11’ nation status investment will provide.

The Bangladesh Brand Forum was created in 2006 with a belief that the principles of marketing & branding should be a critical tool for societal upgradation. The legacy of our barter economy is that in pursuit of the lowest possible price, quality was always sacrificed and so across society, we are left with sub standard choices. At their most basic level, brands are shorthand for a promised level of quality, a ‘seal of authenticity’ for the particular range of benefits that a company will offer. If applied across the entirety of the economy and civic infrastructure it will, in one stroke raise our standards forever.

Our next step must involve the creation and maintenance of Bangladeshi inspired brands. Aside from telco, banking and basic household consumer goods, almost every sector has huge potential to create brands which offer consumer targeted benefits. These new brands must delight Bangladeshi’s who will treasure them as unique and wonderful manifestations of their national culture, feel a genuine emotional connection whenever they use or interact with these brands.

There are already some promising candidates: the likes of Grameen, Aarong and Praan have great potential. But there are also many other opportunities: I think Halim is a wonderful snack that people around the world are waiting to discover, I think its greedy that only Bengali’s know about the amazing flavor of Hilsha fish, the jute industry could be reinvented with innovative inventions given the global issue with plastic bags, the Sundabans & the world longest sea beach starting at Cox’s Baazar are destinations tourists are just waiting to discover … and there are so many more examples. If any or many of these opportunities were realized and the brands became international, the reputation and branding of Bangladesh would also dramatically change for the better.

Powerful brands are very good for the economy because of their wealth spreading ability. Research reveals that companies with big brands tend to generate anywhere between 2 ½ and 3 times as many jobs as actually appear on their payroll. As they expand, they hire more people and that increases the service businesses around them. They need more suppliers, they sell more precuts, the retail businesses do better, everybody pays more taxes, they hire more people, and so it goes on. When countries have less strong brands like Bangladesh, it does not get that effect.

It is these issues that we will be debating at length at the Bangladesh Brand Forum 2008. We believe that despite the temporary period of political uncertainty that we find ourselves, we are at a historic juncture in time. And those brave enough to grasp the opportunity through the principles of brand building will take first mover advantage. The train is about to set off …. Do you have the foresight and bravery to get on board?

The BANGLADESH BRAND FORUM 2008 took place at the Radisson Hotel on 26/27 April 2008. Website: www.BangladeshBrandForum.com

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Mass e Bhat: 70 minute documentary treatment

Since 2005, Hannan Majid and Richard York, working as The Rainbow Collective have been producing socially conscious documentaries, in the UK, South Africa, Iraq and Bangladesh, training young aspiring film-makers and distributing films through conventional means as well as through alternative platforms, such as in schools, teachers conferences and charity events with groups including Amnesty International and The Railway Children. Formed as a Social Enterprise and a Community Interest Company (C.I.C.), The Rainbow Collective has made it a priority to ensure that all its documentaries should be seen and distributed not only as traditional films, but as tools to be used in education, campaigning and the furthering of community cohesion. Likewise, Its privately commissioned pieces for charities, NGOs and educational/governmental organisations should be made as personal, creative and cinematic films, in addition to serving their original, practical purpose.

Due to its subject matter and vignette-based, modular structure, Mass e Bhat is ideally suited to be distributed not only through conventional channels, but as an educational tool, a series of fund/awareness raising films and in the production itself, a way of building partnerships and identifying work still needing to be done in the areas of children's rights, child labour and the alleviation of poverty in the sub-continent.

Bangladesh, 2008. From textile factories populated with child workers to the high-rise apartments of the noveau riche, from the idyllic rural heartlands to the rickshaw drivers of Dhaka city centre and their children, from the displaced and stigmatised Bihari people to the mystery of a disappearing mountain, "Masse Batte" paints a portrait of a country coming to terms with its status as a "developing nation". Through a series of interconnecting vignettes portraying real people and their everyday lives, the audience is introduced to the challenges, the dreams and the realities of a country forced to question the true meaning of development and its place in the wider world.

The true focus of Mass e Bhat is on the youth of Bangladesh and their potential for the future. Despite showing many of the positive aspects of Bangladeshi society, for example, the highest number of natural gas powered vehicles in any country in the world, the retaining of much traditional, sustainable culture in the villages, the most tolerant and forward thinking form of Islam to be found anywhere in the east, and so on, the film also presents some stark and harrowing stories of a neglected generation of children who hold the keys to Bangladesh's future but are unable to realise their potential due to poverty and inequality. Why do multitudinous schools stand empty while the children of the displaced Bihari people play in the polluted waters and rubbish strewn streets in the slums of chittagong? How can the country truly develop when the average child foregoes education, being expected and required to work for 2 pounds per week in order to support their parents and siblings?
What of the communities of children, building independent communities in the vast landfill rubbish tips, with no hope or achieving the prizes offered by Bangladesh's new economic development? We meet a rickshaw driver who's son is severely mentally handicapped but has been told that the government can only help and provide a wheelchair once the child is "A bit older".

Each of these aspects of Bangladeshi society are portrayed through a series of about 12 personal, intimate stories, avoiding third-person narration and allowing the people to speak for themselves and to tell their own stories in their own words. A combination of beautiful imagery and hard-hitting reality will accurately portray the contradictions and confusions of a country striving for change and improvement.

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The Battle of Plassey Young People’s Project

Brick Lane Circle has received a grant of £46,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to engage a group of young people (18-25) to explore East London’s historical links with Bengal through researching and writing about the area’s East India Company sites.

The project idea emerged out of the series of events that Brick Lane Circle organized in June 2007 to commemorate the 250 Years Anniversary of the Battle of Plassey (23 June 1757), when the British achieved victory in Bengal under Robert Clive. It was also the beginning of the British Indian Empire, under the banner of the English East India Company. The research findings will be put together in a publication, which will be launched during October 2008 Black History Month at a specially organized event at the Museum in Docklands. An exhibition illustrating the work of the young people, historical paintings and photographs and important documents will accompany the publication. The work of the young people will be made electronically available and an education pack will be developed.
The young people will undertake research on a number of East India Company sites in East London, an area dotted with important locations and buildings that have historical links with Bengal. It is also the home of the largest concentration of Bangladeshi people in the UK. The 250 Years anniversary events of the British conquest of Bengal (organized by Brick Lane Circle during June 2007) provided a focus for generating interest in learning about the shared heritage of East London. The young researchers will be primarily recruited from the London Borough of Tower Hamlets and given workshops, guided tours, mentoring support and assistance in writing their chapters. These activities will help familiarise participants about important East India Company sites and their historical links with Bengal and provide guidance on the sources of information.

The East India Company first traded with the East and then conquered vast areas and ancient civilizations for Britain. It played a very important role in the British economic and imperial history for 250 years, starting from 1600 when the company was first chartered by Queen Elizabeth I. The successes and benefits that the Company achieved for Britain also had devastating consequences for India and Bengal in particular. This project will bring this shared history to light and generate interest widely through exploring and sharing knowledge about East India Company sites in East London .

It is envisaged that by becoming familiar with East India company locations and sites and their historical roles, the diverse communities in East London will develop a greater sense of connectivity and linked roots. This will increase the levels of interest on local heritage; enable more people to develop deeper intellectual, creative and leisure interactions with the area's past and help improve community cohesion.

The information generated and disseminated will result in a renewed level of interest on the heritage of East London, especially among the local Bangladeshi population, which means that there will be an increase in the level of desire to discover, preserve and publicise the importance of local heritage. More local people will understand and appreciate the value of many buildings and sites that they see every day around them - which previously had very little relevance to their life - and develop a deeper historical and worldwide perspective of their neighbourhoods.

The project will help diverse groups who live in the area to develop a greater level of understanding about how their neighbourhoods and surrounding areas are connected and the historical and local heritage sites will provide the anchor for such connections. This will enable people to develop a deeper appreciation of their shared and historically linked roots and thereby enhance the scope of celebrating both local heritage and the valuing of diversity.

Open Day, Sunday 1 June '08, 2 - 5pm, Whitechapel Idea Store
The event will look at the scope of The Battle of Plassey Young People’s Project; local East India company sites and researching about the area’s past links with Bengal. It will include presentations by Nick Robbins (author of The Corporation that Changed the World: How the East India Company Shaped the Modern Multinational) and Dr Georgie Wemyss, who teaches Social Anthropology and South Asian Studies at Tower Hamlets College and is a visiting research fellow at Goldsmiths College

The Battle of Plassey Conference, Sunday 22 June '08, Whitechapel Idea Store. Further details will be provided in due course.

The Mayor of Tower Hamlets, Cllr Ann Jackson, said that she is delighted to hear the news and will personally support the project.

Nick Robins (author of The Corporation that Changed the World: How the East India Company Shaped the Modern Multinational) said "“This is an excellent project which will bring to life the East India Company’s legacy in London”.

Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund, London, Sue Bowers said: “This project will bring to light a history shared by Britain and India over hundreds of years by relating it directly to sites associated with the East India company in London. While researching, the young people will also gain skills in writing, photography, planning and team working.”

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Bangladesh Visit in February by Dr Wali Tasar Uddin MBE, DLitt, JP, Hon Consul General of Bangladesh in Scotland (19 February - 4 March)

Dr Wali, BritBangla Honorary Member visits Bangladesh this month.

"When I came to the UK I had nothing. I started at the bottom and worked my way up through commitment, dedication, hard work and practical study. I know about all the aspects of my business from the kitchens to the accounts to marketing. I believe that it's vital to give something back
to support the community and encourage the next generation of entrepreneurs." states Dr Wali.

Dr Wali Tasar Uddin MBE, DLitt, JP, Hon Consul General of Bangladesh in Scotland will be spending the last 2 weeks of February in Bangladesh, on governmental, cultural and charitable business. His packed itinerary includes meetings in Dhaka, Sylhet, Moulvibazr and Barguna District. He will be visiting areas affected by the devastating Cyclone Sidr (with Farah Kabir of Action Aid Group) to gather information about relief work and interviewing victims in advance of a major fundraising event in Scotland on 4th April.

The aims of the visit also include developing a proposed twinning arrangement between the City of Edinburgh and Sylhet and investigating possible partnership links with Edinburgh's Napier University and Heriot Watt University (both of which recently awarded Dr Uddin Honorary degrees) and the Universities and Colleges of Bangladesh, particularly to investigate the potential for training and educational initiatives for individuals specially from ICT, Business Managements, Textiles & Apparels, Hospitality And Nursing Training.

Dr Uddin's flagship business is the award winning Britannia Spice Restaurant (recent recipient of a special presentation by the British Curry Awards to mark the restaurant's unique achievement in winning the Best in Scotland Award for an unprecedented 3 years in a row; an occasion which was marked by an official motion of congratulations by the Scottish Parliament) and he is involved in the campaign to challenge the British government on recent changes in immigration laws which make it harder for UK restaurants to bring in experienced Bangladeshi chefs. On Sat 1st March he will be Chief Guest at the University Campus Social Development Centre (CSDC) of Dhaka inaugural Certificate Giving Ceremony for the Apprenticeship Programme for students and youths.

Dr Uddin will also meet with representatives from Bangladesh's garment and textile industry and the British High Commissioner to discuss development of training and trade opportunities between Bangladesh and UK, as well as representatives from the Bangla Scot Foundation, set up to develop cultural links between Bangladesh and Scotland.

He will be accompanied by a UK Cyclone Sidr Fact Finding team: Mr Enam Ali ACHIMA, FRSA (Editor, Spice Business Magazine), Mr Arjun Miah MBE (member of the BBCC), Mr Athair Khan (Managing Director of the Last Day RAJ Group), Mr Shamsuddin Ahmed MBE (Regional Board Member of Manchester and North West Region), Prof Abdul Hannan (Board member of BBCC Manchester and
North West Region), Mr Abdul Ghani (Mabrook Perfume Co, Dubai) and Mr Koysor Ahmed (MD Sylhet Welding UK Ltd, corporate member of BBCC UK) & Md Rezwan Hussain, Channel S TV UK.

Dr Uddin arrives in Bangladesh on Wed 20th Feb and will depart on 2nd March to return to UK, stopping off in Dubai where he will meet with Consul-General A Hye and Bangladeshi Dubai Business representatives.

A fundraising dinner in aid of the Cyclone Sidr appeal will be held in Edinburgh, Scotland on Fri 4th April at the prestigious Ingliston Centre, aiming to raise £100,000 (stg), with the aim of rebuilding a whole village (70 houses). Dr Uddin aims to find that village on his visit to the Barguna District, which will become the centre of the campaign in Scotland.

Dr Uddin is respected throughout Europe and Bangladesh as a successful businessman, a community leader and an outstanding humanitarian. He has been awarded many honours, including Young Scot of the Year, since he moved to the UK in the 1970s, starting out in a relatives restaurant. Many
years of hard work and study, combined with exceptional drive and business acumen have resulted in a portfolio of successful restaurants and business interests. This success in the business world has brought recognition from many sides. In 1984 Dr Uddin was the first Bangladeshi in Scotland to be
made a Justice of the Peace. In 1993 he was appointed as the first Honorary Consul-General of Bangladesh in Scotland and in 1995 he was made a Member of the British Empire for his services to race relations. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and, in 2003, was included in Debretts People of Today.

Respected as a community leader in Scotland, Dr Uddin chairs the Council for Bangladeshis in Scotland, was a founder of Edinburgh's Central Mosque and is a director of the Shahjalal Mosque and Islamic Centre. Dr Uddin is also Chairman of the Commonwealth Society of Edinburgh and the Bangla Scot Foundation. He is a founding Director of the Edinburgh Mela (the vibrant festival founded by Edinburgh's South Asian communities) and the Edinburgh Bangladesh Samity and was recently appointed Official Advisor to the Sylhet Foundation.

Dr Uddin's efforts have touched thousands of people over the years. Following the disastrous cyclone in 1991, he was instrumental in raising over £140,000 which was used to build a concrete cyclone shelter and Baharchara-Ratnapur High School. In 1998 he was involved in raising over
£220,000 to enable Onneyshan to oversee the construction of a model village and training centre. Dr Uddin is Director and Chief Co-ordinator of the Sylhet Women's Medical College and Hospital, a Trustee of the Bangladesh Female Academy and an advisor to the Atish Dipankar University
of Science & Technologies in Dhaka.

Web sites: www.drwaliuddin.co.uk www.britanniaspice.co.uk

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Joint fundraising iftar event in aid of the flood victims in Bangladesh

On Thursday 20th September, three organisations The BobNetwork, BBPA and BritBangla held a joint fundraising iftar event in aid of the flood victims in Bangladesh. The lively fundraiser was held in Cafe Naz @ Corvina in London and was attended by 150 enthusiastic young British Bangladeshis. The evening proved to be a great success with dinner, an auction, raffle tickets and many generous donations. Among the auctioned items were a copy of 'A-Z of Arranged Marriage' autographed by the author Rekha Waheed, a collection of framed fabric art by Shozna, and a collection of Arabic Calligraphy by Shumi Islam.

The hosts created a great buzz and with Café Naz's attentive service and good food the spirits were high and the donations flowed in. The chairman of The bobNetwork, Misbah Mosobbir was the auctioneer and proved himself a dab hand on the night. His enthusiastic sales tactics resulted
in healthy bidding from the audience.

By the end of the evening, young British-Bangladeshis proved themselves to be generous and resourceful yet again with £5000 raised for the British Red Cross. They continue to make a difference with their contributions and exemplary efforts to support worthy causes.

Jasmine Choudhury, Solicitor said 'I enjoyed the iftar party as it was good to see all three groups work together and work towards the same goal' and Saiful Khan went further to say 'I thought the auction was a great idea. Met lots of new people and it a very friendly & generous crowd. A big well done to the team.'

Rebecca Payne of the British Red Cross commented 'On behalf of the British Red Cross I'd like to thank The bobNetwork for organising this fundraiser and raising the fantastic amount of £5000 for the Asia Floods Appeal, which will cover past, present and near future flooding events in numerous countries throughout the continent, including those currentlyaffected in Bangladesh. As we speak, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement are providing emergency relief to all the affected
areas. Volunteers are delivering food, water, basic healthcare and sanitation to millions of people who have lost everything in the floods'

Big thanks to Saquat Ali, for making sure the groups came together and the event went smoothly, 'Unique events' for the sponsorship and of course the artists for their donations

For photos of the night, for information on BritBangla website and forthcoming community events, please visit www.britbangla.net. If you would like to donate to the British Red Cross for the flood appeal, please visit http://www.redcross.org.uk

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Shahin Badar 'Glory of Indai Award Winner'
21 July 2007

Shahin Badar,whose enchanting indian vocals featured on the prodigy's controversial single "smack my bitch up" had a lot to be happy about as on Saturday 21st of july, singer songwriter composer, Shahin, was awarded the prestigious Glory of India award by the India International Friendship Society (IIFS)at the noted Crowne Plaza Hotel,.

She spent her youth growing up in Colchester, Kuwait and India learning to sing in several languages.

Shahin has a profile of international work that continues to grow. This work includes vocal inclusions in over 40 soundtracks which include strong female TV, film and advert characters such as Nikita, Lara Croft, Scottish Widows and Charlie's Angels.

She has appeared on 3 UK No.1 albums, two of which were grammy nominated, collaborated with top composers such as A.R Rahman and many upcoming acts.

She endorsed many charitable causes such as the NSPCC, RNID (UK's biggest charity), flood appeals, headlined the UK's biggest one day carnival, Redbridge's first Asian music festival, launched London's first Children's Hospice's Children's week for the Richard House trust, worked on the UK's first
electronica album to hit the No.1 spot on the Billboard charts and many more impressive profile pointers.

Although not able to pick up the award herself, Shahin was delighted to hold the award in her hand and beam 'Women in the music industry, in fact, in most industries do not always receive the recognition that they should for their work and even when they have, they often have to do that much more to be accepted and recognised.This award is an honour for me because it serves as
recognition of my music and that of other women and this will go with my Channel S TV award for contribution to the community which I picked up last year'

Signed to Times Music in India, Shahin's current album is due for full release in uk soon and is entitled " Laila".

Among the previous recipients of the coveted award include Bollywood actor and film producer Dev Anand.

India international Friendship Society is a voluntary organization established to forge greater unity and integrity among the people of Indian origin living anywhere in the world and presents the awards to individuals who have attained excellence in their respective field of work.

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Girls Orphanage in Bangladesh - BritBangla Fundraiser
Taryn Khanam
17th January 2007

Here's an update and feedback to those who kindly supported the BritBangla fundraiser way back in May 2004.

I recently returned from Bangladesh and visited the Rainagor Girls Orphanage in Sylhet, and share wiht you some photos and an account of my visit:

When I walked into the orphanage the little girls immediately stopped playing, seeing me as a stranger they started to hide away with some running inside for cover. I could hear the girls whispering and huddling up in a group, obviously not used to outsiders. It took a few moments to
gain their trust and to engage them in small conversation. They looked on me with curiosity and I stupidly asked it they remembered me from my last visit (2 years ago), as if they would! The youngest is 'Nishi', a 5 year old, who cried for months when she first arrived there and still looked sad. Seeing the girls, I felt upset and especially guilty, as I was lucky to have my mum who was also with me at the time of the visit. I noticed that the kids obviously look after each other, and there is an amazing
spirit of sisterhood amongst them, which I was happy to see.

Project details:
Charity project: December 2004 - March 2007
Funds: £2000 spent on computer, 50 mattresses, books/pens, 3 teachers - Maths, English and sewing

Project Success:
The project was successful and this year five girls received all Grade As and Bs, due to the support provided for extra weekly tuition classes for Maths and English. The sewing classes provide the kids with a fallback plan when they leave the orphanage (at the age of 16) to support
themselves.

The lesson learned is that from a £2000 donation, which is not very much at all, has made a difference as in a country such as Bangladesh which proves that even us from here in UK can help to improve lives of little people to give them a chance for a better future to support themselves.

You may wish to see for yourself the orphanage if you are visiting Bangladesh, please contact me.

Any donations would be very gratefully accepted or charity raffle prizes from businesses or potential sponsors of a charity event to continue fundraising for this good cause and make a difference to these girls lives.

If anyone wants to know more please do contact me at taryn@britbangla.net

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Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee (BRAC)
Ishrat-Jahan Chowdhury
November 2006

Millions in Bangladesh have benefited from projects funded by BRAC. Now, the BRAC brings it third world development success to UK.

BRAC is a well known NGO founded off the back of the liberation war in 1972. It helped deal with the devastating effects of the armed struggle and post independence era, with a particular commitment to the rural poor who made up most of Bangladesh.

Throughout the years BRAC has run many programmes across Bangladesh. Some of their most successful work has been in targeting mortality reduction, microfinance enterprises, and various health programmes, in reaching out to mothers, children, and slum communities. All by applying a specifically gendered approach to their work.

BRAC implements a comprehensive development approach, with a number of programmes for economic and social development of the people. BRAC core programmes include four main ones: BRAC Economic Development Programme, BRAC Social Development, Human Rights and Legal Education Services Programme, BRAC Education Programme and BRAC Health Programme.

In the last 34 years, BRAC have achieved an enormous amount in terms of development. Their programmes contribute a significant amount towards achieving the target millennium development goals, and they have even used their own post-war / disaster experiences to extend their work into Afghanistan from 1992, and more recently with the Tsunami relief programs. An impressive 80% of costs are also covered by their own initiatives

BRAC-UK: bringing third world development success to UK

BRAC-UK is a new extension of their development work, while the NGO are hoping to soon expand into Africa; they are also to pilot a number of proposed projects in British communities, replicating the model of social change in terms of reaching, empowering, and educating women of underprivileged communities.

This innovative form of NGO work brings in third world development successes to the ‘developed world’ as poverty alleviation work is also much needed in the UK. Programmes are to initially begin in East and North-West London. They will be drawing on the experiences of Bangladeshi women of Tower Hamlets to work with women from the Somali community.

BRAC-UK will also engage in advocacy work and provide a southern voice to policy dialogue. Currently in its exciting new stages, BRAC-UK is a small team filled with vision and equipped with years of experience, who are looking to work at grassroots level here within the UK.

If you may be able to help further the cause of BRAC-UK they are currently looking for support in a number of areas. If you feel you would like to contribute in any way, or to learn more, please contact:
Email: sandrakabir@yahoo.co.uk

BRAC website for further information: http://www.brac.net/

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Monsoon Press has combined writers and artists to come together to inspire each other under its Inspirations Project so that pictures and words can be inspired and created from each other. The main aspect of the project has been to work with women and their feelings towards the family. However during the course of various grassroots workshops the discussion around family also interlinked with birth, self-awareness, marriage, children and the emotions and politics of the “FAMILY” This particular work with a poet, artist and women of various backgrounds has been titled “THE WOMAN WHO LEFT THE VILLAGE”

One such example are the workshops Monsoon completed with Doorstep Homeless Families Project with women to celebrate Family week in creating pictures with an artist and writer of an event in their family life that had left a mark in their lives. The writings include poetry and have been linked with up and coming artist Aleya Khan’s paintings and the emerging poet and writer Dina Begum.

“The Woman Who left the villages” also explores how women from South East Asia leave their families to marry and come and live in the Britain. Another element of the art, work and writing has been to show how women have been the breadwinners of families in the developing world through the art of embroidery and crafts. The women portrayed in the paintings are similar to brides, which again linked to the South Asian culture of the bride viewed as part of the cycle of the family.

Through the work with women both at the homeless project and Monsoon’s writers group the view emerged that the family was the core unit that held society together. However the family was not just made up of the immediate family of parents and children but of the extended family, which also included friends and neighbours. Even the immediate family was not made up of a father and mother but of various structures such as the older sibling looking after a whole family. Many Bangladeshi women felt that the west had only just discovered that family was not made up of the nuclear family and that the primary care givers could begin from the grandparents, aunts, uncles and to the nursing maid. It was agreed that family was global and it was this that brought the world together.

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So I returned to Bangladesh in the summer to find it as colourful as ever, and during the month that passed, I managed to see a few more of the sights I missed on the last trip. There really is so much culture and history; it’s just a shame that although tourism is clearly on the government’s agenda, the full potential for investment and development of such amazing sites has yet to be fully explored.

Visually, the country is very similar to Sri Lanka, I found myself comparing the lakes, hills, general scenic beauty as I did over there.

Passing through the streets in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh; there are so many reminders of the independence struggle, not just the official memorials but stunning pictures, murals, statues, and sculptures splattered everywhere. Though the ideologies behind the birth of this nation seem (to some extent) be fading with its city people, at least its alive in an artistic sense and on a street-level at that.

I have always enjoyed travelling between the two largest cities in Bangladesh. The breathtakingly beautiful route from Dhaka to Chittagong is around a five-hour drive down this one straight road. At parts there are huge trees that reach out from the sides and meet over you and every so often, there are small paths that lead off into separate villages, you see kids running back and forth bathing in lakes, laughing as they play. Once you leave Dhaka, on either side there are fields of jute and dhan (paddy fields) that stretch out as far as you can see with different shades of green so rich and vibrant, the whole path is just so unbelievably soul-settling.

Rangamati is also beautiful, it is part of the Chittagon Hill tracks area (CHT) where a number of tribal (minority) groups have managed to preserve their ways of living. The views are stunning and the entire area just seemed so untouched and far away.

Breathtaking views of Rangamati

I also managed to return to the coastal area of Pathenga, that I fell in love with last time I went, it is actually just a port area where the locals might fish, and ships come in or parts are broken, but there is a long area where these huge blocks have been placed for the tide, and behind these there are small markets and food stalls. Around sunset, from these stalls you hear the harmonious sounds of traditional Bengali folk music in the distance, in with that of the sea and groups of people laughing and enjoying themselves. It was here I also managed to look up at the sky to see the sun going down, and then turn around to see the moon, glowing in another area of the sky at the same time! Absolutely amazing!

On another day, we took a boat out across the Jamuna (Bhramaputra) river which also reaches parts of India, China and Tibet. The Jamuna bridge goes on for miles out from the district of Sirajganj to that of Tangail and can also boast some great views.

Jamuna Bridge over Bramaputra River

I really do find Bangladesh as one of the most prettiest countries I have ever visited, and for anyone considering a trip, though the temperatures can be madness, especially during the summer, and the roads utter chaos, the hectic pace of the cities is easily balanced out by the friendly nature of the people, the many fascinating tales of how this culture has developed and fought for its recognition, not to mention the raw picturesque beauty. An adventure most truly awaits you!

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Shahin Badar - Tours Lebanon and Germany
06 August 2006

After successfully working with The prodigy on their three number one selling albums, including the album ‘Always Outnumbered Never Outgunned’ on the track 'Get up Get off' that featured the vocals of Shahin, Twista and Juliet Lewis. Shahin Badar has recently returned from Beirut (just few weeks before the Middle East war broke out), Lebanon performing at the 50 cent concert with the Lebanese award winning act Guy Manoukian at the biel. They were the opening act and performed to a crowd of 15-20,000 people. Shahin is flying out to Germany this weekend to perform at the Stinnen festival with Merchan Dede,a well known turkish producer and will be headlining the show.

The beautifully shot video to her spiritual track ‘Light at the end of the tunnel’ produced by Jazz and written and composed by Shahin is due to be aired in all the Asian channel's before Ramadaan in September 2006.The lyrics for Melody Voice are very deep, touching and powerful with a strong/loving message that Shahin hope will hopes will captivate the audience.

In India, her track "Punjab Di Rani" is out on a compilation album that is called Vibes 3 by the Times music.

Shahin plans to release her new album next year, early 2007.

Photo: Shahin Badar with Guy Manoukin at 50 cents concert, Lebanon 10th July 2006

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BritBangla Celebrates Book Success
15 May 2006

On Sunday 30th April, BritBangla members gathered at Bhangra Beat Indian Restaurant, Covent Garden, London, to celebrate the book success of its members, Rekha Waheed, Sanchita Islam, Abdul Ahad and Rabina Khan. BritBangla brings together professionals and entrepreneurs to celebrate its members successes; and provides a forum to support and encourage each other with their careers and businesses.

Rekha Waheed's novel ‘A-Z Guide to Arranged Marriage’ was published last year. Sanchita Islam’s books include ‘From Briarwood to Barishal to Brick lane‘, ‘Hidden’ and ‘Connecting Kids’. Sanchita is currently writing her new novel called ‘Gungi Blues’ and Penguin are interested in publishing the book. Rabina Khan's ‘Ayesha’s Rainbow’ will be launched in September 2006. Science fiction author Abdul Ahad, a respected astronomer, secured an American Publisher for his book entitled ‘First Ark to Alpha Centauri’ and he is working on his next novel ‘The True Price of Immortality'. The event provided inspiration to budding writers and highlighted the difficulties experienced by ethnic minority writers in finding publishers.

BritBangla was established to highlight the achievements made by the British Bengalis and profile that to the mainstream. Encouragement from Blue Peter presenter and BritBangla honorary member Konnie Huq, propels BritBangla forward. Taryn Khanam, BritBangla founder, says, "There is a huge amount of talent from within the Bengali community, much of it goes unrecognised; so it is important to profile and share our success stories to inspire others".

Abdul Ahad

Abdul Ahad's novel ‘First Ark to Alpha Centauri’ about the launch of the Centauri Princess from Earth in the late 23rd century and its journey on a multi-generational voyage to New Earth, a planet located in the solar system called Alpha Centauri. Abdul, a UK-based science fiction author with a background in Astronomy and the Space Sciences, is now writing his second, follow-up novel 'The True Price of Immortality', which is a continuing story in the epic First Ark series and seeking a publisher for his book. In July 2004, he became the first person in scientific history to define a mean radius around the Sun, where its light dominion comes to an end (the 'Ahad radius'). Book available to buy from www.amazon.co.uk.

Rekha Waheed

Rekha Waheed’s novel ‘A-Z Guide to Arranged Marriage’ is about Maya Malik a 28-year-old single lonely aging Asian girl who wants a gorgeous husband and a grand ostentatious wedding. The A-Z Guide to Arranged Marriages celebrates the realities of an age-old tradition for the new generation. Book available from Eastide Bookshop and www.amazon.co.uk

Sanchita Islam

Sanchita Islam, is an artist, filmmaker and a writer, has published books that include ‘Old Meets Young’, ‘Hidden’ and 'Avenues'. Where is home? A question that led London-based writer to Bangladesh, then to New York and ultimately to her film, publishing and art project taking place across three continents, ‘From Briarwood to Barishal to Brick Lane’ . The anthology comprises the writing of Bangladeshis living in London, New York and Bangladesh. The idea is to bring their voices together in one cohesive anthology that reflects the diversity of experience within the diaspora.
Sanchita heads Pigment Explosion, a company that specialises in live art and international art projects. Sanchita's projects received grants from the British Council and The Arts Council. Her books are available from Sketch at Conduit St, Whitechapel Art Gallery and Eastside bookshop.

Rabina Khan

Rabina Khan’s novel ‘Ayesha’s Rainbow’ is set in the East End of London during times of racial tension, a little Asian girl 'Ayesha' befriends 'Mrs. Peters' the mother of a neo-fascist living next door and a whole plethora of intrigue, plots and tragedy ensues. Racism, deceit, trauma and a glimmer of hope are among the elements portrayed in a masterful and potent work, which though entirely fictional, will challenge both British and Asian readers to take a long hard look at themselves in the new millennium. The novel is currently being reviewed by Rageh Omaar, Simon Hattenstone (The Guardian), Roberta Taylor (The Bill drama series and the author of Too Many Mothers; Memoirs of an East End Childhood) and Anila Baig from the Sun Newspaper. The book will be launched in July 2006.

Contact for media enquiries: E-mail: britbangla@britangla.net

BOOK COMPETION - WIN COPIES OF THE ABOVE BOOKS

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Bangladesh opens its doors to UK investors
31 May 2006

Floods and famine were the images that once sprung to mind whenever Bangladesh was mentioned. With political instability and corruption the country’s potential was grossly undermined. But the economic and social infrastructure of Bangladesh has improved dramatically. Now it is a country bursting with promise. For foreign investors it’s a ripe time to see potential in the country’s growing sector for healthcare and education and its information technology market.

BritBangla is supporting the Bangladesh British Chamber of Commerce (BBCC) which is aiming to encourage British investors to see the potential in Bangladesh. It is actively working to disseminate information to the British Bangladeshi community in the UK and also to the wider British population.

Last year, the BBCC held a highly successful trade fair, Expo Bangladesh 2005, showcasing the achievements of 80 companies. With more than 10,000 visitors, the Expo proved hugely popular and for the various investors at the Expo around £14 million pounds of business was generated.

The BBCC is working to help new investors with joint ventures, training, research and development opportunities and to encourage trading between traders in Bangladesh, the UK, Western Europe and the USA.

Arif Zaman, advisor to the Commonwealth Business Council in South Asia said: “In the next ten years South Asian countries will be where the international companies will want to invest and Bangladesh will be one of them.”

Forty percent of the underprivileged population live in South Asia. However, the largest middle class population is concentrated in Bangladesh and Pakistan and it is these areas that are associated with high profit margins for investors. Traders have been astute in making profits in these areas but the local populations have not always benefited from new business.

It is important for South Asian countries to find better ways of transferring skills and experience back to the local population and learn from working with international companies. Links with international communities is vital for Bangladesh to progress further. The BBCC is the crucial link for UK businesses to communicate and ultimately trade with businesses in Bangladesh and helping the country to rebuild economically.

Opportunities exist in areas unheard of before now. Doctors can take their skills to Bangladesh to improve healthcare, teachers can work in schools or set up private schools and there is a wealth of information technology potential just waiting to be untapped.

Mr Iqbal Ahmed, chief executive of Seamark, said: “the time is now for investors to take advantage of the opportunities available,” and further went on to explain the numerous tax incentives for companies who plan to invest in Bangladesh.

For professional advice on the financial and legal aspects of trading in Bangladesh please contact Dr Wali Taser Uddin, Chairman of BBCC at info@bbcc.org.uk.

As part of the BBCC’s campaigning initiative, BritBangla together with BBCC will provide the opportunity to attend seminars and meet some of the successful business executives, such as Mr Iqbal Ahmed and Mr Shelim Hussain of Eurofoods who have established companies in Bangladesh.

Please email your views on this article to britbangla@britbangla.net or go to the BritBangla Forum at www.britbangla.net/forum.

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