Nadia Sharmeen did not seek anyone’s favour after being assaulted by religious extremists while on duty in 2013. The story of her courage and professionalism in face of adversity spoke for itself, and the world listened. The US has recently recognised her bravery with the prestigious International Women of Courage Award.
Starting from 2007, the US State Department honours women from all over the world for their transformative role in the society with the IOWC award. This year, 10 women, including Nadia, were nominated.
On March 7, the award ceremony was held in Washington DC. Following the ceremony, US first lady Micelle Obama met all the winners at the White House. Catherine Russell , US ambassador for women’s issues, introduced Nadia to the US first lady as a ‘vital force’ among the group of winners . When the first lady of the US said she was proud to meet a courageous journalist like her, Nadia’s joy knew no bounds.
Michelle Obama later twitted about the IWOC winners, where she wrote about Nadia as well.
Nadia was assaulted on May 5, 2013, in Purana Paltan in Dhaka by 50-60 supporters of Hefazat-e-Islam while she was covering the Dhaka siege as a crime reporter of Ekushey Television. Thanks to the help of fellow journalists and DB police, she was saved, but she had to go through two surgeries to get back on her feet. During this difficult time, she lost her job as well. After many difficulties she got a new job at Ekattor TV.
Nadia’s source of inspiration is her family who always supported her lifelong dream to become a journalist. Her grandmother’s sister Hasina Ashraf was a journalist of Doinik Bangla who served as the biggest role model of her life and she went on to complete her masters in journalism and mass communication from Dhaka University.
“Many a time after that incident I thought my career was over, but with the support of my family I came back stronger. I have completed many challenging assignments ever since, including covering Hefazat-e -Islam again,” she said.
For Nadia, the award is a symbol of honour for the whole country. “Bangladesh has the reputation of being known as a poverty and flood- ridden country. This award will be a positive reflection of Bangladesh to the world. Women who are fighting against social obstacles will be inspired as well, as now they know their struggle will not go in vain,” she said.
She advised women to carry on their fight against adversity. “You may start alone, but there will be people with you in the end,” she said.
The award opens a world of opportunity in front of Nadia. Under the International visitor leadership programme of the US State Department, all 10 IWOC awardees will be provided networking facilities with the media and women right activists of their respective countries.
Source: Prothom Alo
