By Monika Paik from Shyamnagar, Satkhira
The Datinakhali Forest reosources dependent Women’s development organization of Burigoalini Union, Shyamnagar, Satkhira, has been awarded a crest and certificate in recognition of their contribution to women’s employment through the sustainable use of Sundarbans’ natural resources.
The award was presented recently at a ceremony held at the Rajshahi Divisional Small Ethnic Cultural Academy auditorium. Shefali Bibi, the organization’s president, received the honor jointly awarded by National Green Coalition, Barendra Youth Forum, and BARCIK. BARCIK Directors Pavel Partha and Syed Ali Biswas, urban expert Jahangir Alam, and other distinguished guests handed over the award.
Speakers in the event highlighted Shefali Bibi’s multifaceted roles as a forest resources dependent woman and an artist and a traditional birth attendant. Under her leadership, marginalized forest women organized themselves, secured their rights, and engaged in income-generating activities. Over a hundred women have become self-reliant through training, while profits from their products are being used to support widows and women who lost husbands due to tiger attacks.
In 2017, Shefali Bibi was recognized as a “Joyeeta” awardee for her remarkable economic achievements. Her struggle and contribution to the empowerment of forest resources dependent women have set a shining example. She has not only advanced women’s empowerment and rural development but also promoted forest and environmental conservation.
Her leadership continues to inspiring many women in coastal areas to pursue self-reliance and dream of a better future.
