We have featured Nur Sarah Kader to our readers about her book Chromatic which received numerous recognitions. Recently, Nur visited Bangladesh to receive recognition and do her work with her Foundation.“The One Light Foundation: is a non-profit 501 c(3) organization registered with the USA. All its activities are federally tax-deductible by the US Internal Revenue Services.
Nur founded the organization to elevate education empowerment, women rights and bring a voice and awareness to injustice and inequality.
Nur was recognized by Behula Bangla Bissho Shahitta Candre as the top best seller based on book sales in the last 4 years from over 400 books. Imdadul Haque Milon was special guest and poet Alamgir Reza Chaudhry was also present.
Milon presented and recognized Nur for her contribution to our literature and bringing a different voice. Nur was the youngest recipient of the award in the ceremony and was recognized with special award from `Behula Bangla’.The publisher Chandan Chaudhry made a remark that the book had unpreceded acceptance and excitement since its publication in Akesha book fair.
The foundation has done a few programs in Nur’s home district is Chandpur. In her village, the foundation has awarded one-year school supplies to all the top students in all the high school classes. The meeting was presided by the School Board chairman and Principle, Anisur Rahman along with local dignitaries.
Most students appreciated the one and one interactions with Nur and learning her passion and insights. Many students were inspired by her address where she urges student “not to fear and follow their passion to reach goals”.
She also asked them to have high expectations and work hard and to be socially responsible. The School board honored Nur with a plaque and certificate for her contributions.
The other program was held in Faridgonj Upazila which was presided by the Additional District Commissioner,Sahikut Osman. Upazilla academic advisor,Abdulah Al Mamun and journalist Nurul Islam Farhad conducted the programs and made remarks.
The program recognized the top 73 students in the upazilla who received 5 out of 5 GPA.The students received a plaque and cash money as scholarship. There was great excitement and participation and the event was highlighted locally. Many dignitaries were present along with the local press. Nur was recognized by the ADC for her contribution to the society. Nur was recognized with a momandum plaque and certificate by Mr. Osman.
Finally, Nur had a TV program in the most prominent TV channel in the country, Channel I, which was aired Friday, August 8th on the “Akarvetrapaj” show. The program highlighted Nur’s achievement including her book awards and work of her foundation.
This is a unique perspective of a Bangladeshi who learned about the country from family and friends from far away. This is the second time Nur visited Bangladesh but her exposure to Bangladesh and culture came mainly from her grandmother who lives with her and updated her routinely about Bangladesh culture and news using TV shows, Facebook and storytelling.
Nur is inspired by the culture and people of Bangladesh and felt that her perspective and voice have inspired her to do more for Bangladeshi students and people. Her commitment to education empowerment and recognition’ll continue through her foundation works.
Ataur Rahman Shohag . Sep 23 , 2019