In a world that often underestimates the potential of individuals with disabilities, one man defied the odds and emerged as a role model and inspiration. This is the captivating story of Shamim Hawlader, a symbol of resilience from Ward 8, Chalreayeda Village in Sarankhola Sub-District, Bangladesh, who refused to let humble beginnings define his destiny.
Born with a physical disability, Shamim’s journey was not without challenges. However, fuelled by unwavering determination, he defied limitations to pursue his dreams and aspirations. He shattered barriers imposed by society and transformed his community in unexpected ways. Further, despite numerous obstacles, he fearlessly showcased his skills and dedication, proving that disability was never a barrier to making a meaningful contribution to society.
Empowering the Unseen Potential
From a young age, Shamim’s warm-hearted nature and active involvement in social activities made him a beloved figure in his village. Alas, despite the acceptance he received, his physical disability prevented him from fully participating in community-based committees, leaving untapped potential within him.
However, fate took an unexpected turn when Shamim joined the Strengthening Resilience in South and South-East Asia by Integrating Risk Management, Social Inclusion, and Socio-Economic Development Program, a collaboration between the Center for Disability in Development (CDD) and Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) Indonesia and the Philippines. This transformational initiative marked a turning point in Shamim’s life.
Little did he know that his involvement in a series of Self Help Group meetings would unlock a world of possibilities and reveal his hidden leadership abilities. As he immersed himself in the group, his talents gradually emerged, leading to his appointment as the secretary of the Propojati Self-Help Group.
“Finding this program has been an incredible blessing. It equipped me with a vast array of knowledge, from disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation to the rights and leadership of persons with disabilities, and empowered me to be actively engaged. I am determined to raise community awareness on disaster risk reduction and inclusive climate change adaptation,” Shamim reflected on his journey with profound gratitude.
Endless Contribution
Driven by unwavering commitment, under the CDD and ASB project, Shamim promoted energy-efficient and environmentally friendly cook stoves, known as bondhu chula. With boundless enthusiasm, he educated and demonstrated the benefits of these cook stoves to the most at-risk households in his Ward—those belonging to people with disabilities, disadvantaged women, and the impoverished. Despite only 60 households adopting the cook stoves, Shamim’s dedication to reinforcing community awareness on disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation never wavers.
His dedication was tested when Cyclone Sitrang struck the Bangladesh coastal belt on October 24, 2022. Amid the chaos, Shamim tirelessly traversed his neighbourhood, visiting each home adjacent to the embankment in Ward 8. He delivered early warnings and urged residents, including persons with disabilities, to seek safety in designated shelters.
Living in a village perched on the banks of the Boleswar River, Sharmim knows all too well the vulnerability his community faces—cyclones, tidal waves, or other sea-related disasters. Hence, Shamim’s approach became a lifeline for his community. As a result, 16 persons with disabilities from 13 most at-risk households were safely evacuated to Cyclone Shelters, guided by Shamim and supported by the Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP).
“Having endured the devastation of Cyclone Sidr in 2007 and lost my home situated on the river embankment, I understand the importance of visiting each household to ensure their safety,” Shamim recalls with a trembling voice.
Dedication Creates Lasting Change
Against all odds, Shamim, who only completed grade eight, eventually became a member of the Ward Disaster Management Committee (WDMC), representing persons with disabilities in Ward 8, Rayenda Union. His commitment and expertise in raising public awareness about disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation propelled him further, earning him a position in the prestigious Ward 8 Community Disaster Management Committee (CDMC). This honour comes through his invaluable contributions to the Coastal Disaster Risk Reduction Program, implemented by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS).
Shamim’s involvement in these committees sparks ground-breaking development. Throughout regular participation in committee meetings, he perseveres in raising awareness among stakeholders about the vulnerabilities faced by persons with disabilities and most at-risk populations during disasters. Drawing on his knowledge and experience, he ensures the inclusion of critical issues in various documents, such as the Participatory and Inclusive Community Risk Assessment (RCA), the Risk Reduction Action Plan (RRAP), and the Contingency Plan for Rayenda Union.
Driven by his desire to fully immerse himself in community-based activities, Shamim was subsequently actively engaged in government advocacy and established robust networks with non-governmental organizations. As a result, government and non-government institutions began extending assistance to persons with disabilities in the area.
“I am thrilled to witness the Self-Help Group for Persons with Disabilities receiving support such as seeds and fertilizers tolerant of salinity from the Upazila Department of Agriculture. Furthermore, 12 persons with disabilities in this union received livestock assistance from disaster reduction and climate change adaptation-focused NGOs like JJS and Nobolok. Additionally, seven persons with disabilities from different wards in Rayenda Union were granted ‘Golden Citizen’ cards through the Social Service Office. These aids hold immense significance for our empowerment,” Shamim concludes with a sense of relief.
