6 Bangladeshi-Canadian women honoured

Six Bangladeshi-Canadian women have received ‘PACE-RMM Women Achievers Award' for their contributions and commitment to the community, according to a message received from Toronto, Canada.

The award has been introduced this year by PACE, a non-profit organisation, and Radio Metro Mail, an infotainment channel broadcast from Toronto.

Rasheda Nawaz, Ottawa-based former urban planner and a renowned social worker and politician, was conferred the “Woman of Distinction Award' for her contributions and commitment to the public and the community.

A well-known face in the community, Chayanika Dutta received the woman in the legal profession award, said the message received in Dhaka on Tuesday.

Shahnaz Perveen and Rusmita Alam respectably received the award in “Women Entrepreneur and Fashion Design” categories.

Sheira Haq and Shahida Sultana jointly received the award for the health and wellness categories.

“Bangladeshi-Canadian women demonstrated their strengths, commitment and positive influence in many occasions. They have shown their resilience against any odds and inspired the community,” said Amit Chakma, president of Western University, Ontario, after handing over the awards to the recipients.

The award giving ceremony was part of an event titled ‘Colour of Joy', organised by PACE and Radio Metro Mail on Monday to celebrate Bangla new year 1424, the 150th anniversary of the confederation and achievements of Bangladeshi-Canadian women in Canada.

A good number of community members and dignitaries were present at the event including parliament members from provincial and federal parliaments.

Rasheda Nawaz, one of award recipients, emphasised the need for open mind to learn how to respect others in a multicultural environment.

Emamul Haque, executive director of Radio Metro Mail, said, “The award is in sync with our commitment towards the cause of empowering women. The idea is to recognise and acknowledge the contribution of women achievers across fields who will be role models to countless other women in Canada.”