International Volunteer Profile

Bangladesh - Background Information:

Bangladesh is a beautiful and diverse country situated between India and the Bay of Bengal .  Its land has many unique biospheres - within which are beautifully diverse scenic attractions - which have been recognized by the World Heritage Organization.  Its people are a mix of Indo-China origin with Bangla as their national language.  The independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan in 1971 was significantly contributed to by the Bangla language and the pride of the people.  Proceeding independence, the population has soared and the average national income is well below the poverty line with many families surviving on just 1 $US per day.  A national health service does exist; many families, however, cannot afford to travel to their local government hospital to access this health service. The principal problems for modern Bangladesh are identified as unemployment, poverty and a lack of health and human rights. One cannot help but be inspired in witnessing the initiative, innovation and strength of the Bangladeshi people in their endeavor to overcome the harsh context characterized by the abovementioned problems.

NOWZUWAN - Background Information:

NOWZUWAN is a registered non-government and non profit development organization founded in 1977. NOWZUWAN aims to facilitate positive change in the socio-economic environment of Bangladesh in improvement of the quality of life for its citizens. NOWZUWAN facilitates positive change in Bangladesh by raising the critical awareness of the populace - so individuals can determine and priorities their own needs, concerns and responses - by mobilizing resources and by assisting the production and implementation of community development initiatives.

NOWZUWAN historically emerged in Dengapara village of Patiya Upazila in the Chittagong District. Initially, NOWZUWAN's activities were limited to sports and literature. Thereafter, NOWZUWAN recognized the extent to which the people of Dengapara village were deprived of their basic rights in terms of education, food, clothing, shelter and health and sanitation and, consequently, established itself as a social development organization. In 1992, NOWZUWAN expanded its activities to incorporate economic and social development activities. In 1996, with the objective of improving the socio-economic conditions of Bangladesh on a larger scale, NOWZUWAN held several committee meetings where it was decided to amend the constitution and alter the organizational name from West Dengapara NOWZUWAN club to NOWZUWAN (Social Development Organization). In addition to Dengapara village, NOWZUWAN currently maintains a target area that includes various Upazila of Cox'sBazar, Banderban and the Chittagong District. As a result of the success and effectiveness of its endeavours, NOWZUWAN has obtained a highly regarded reputation and maintains a multitude of valuable and useful links with individuals of various hierarchical positions throughout the community.

Meaning of NOWZUWAN: The meaning of NOWZUWAN is brave / hero. It points towards those strong youth in the movement for required solution of the condition with justice and noble works

Major On-going Program / Projects:

Health

•  Disability & Development

•  HIV/AIDS and STD Prevention

•  Food Security and Consumer Rights

•  Civil Society Organizations Network Initiatives for Avian Influenza(AI)

•  Water & Sanitation

•  Anti Tobacco & Drug

•  Family Planning Services

Environment

•  Social Forestation (Tree plantation)

•  Save the Halda River (Only natural carp spawning ground in the South East Asia )

•  Climate Change and Disaster Management

•  Solid Waste Management & Composting

Education & Social Justice:

•  Non-Formal Primary Education (NFPE)

•  Children and Development

•  Gender & Development

•  Adolescent & Development

•  Human Rights and Good Governance

Youth and Voluntarism :

•  Youth and Development

•  International Volunteer Placement

Income Generating

•  Microfinance

•  ROOTS

Agriculture and Land Rights

Homestead Gardening

Field Crop

Fisheries and Livestock

Completed Program/Project with Past Donors (Financial & Technical) :

•  Microfinance, Education and Cultural Program(Supported by: NAC/Proshika)

•  Rural Livelihood Project (RLP)/SHABGE-DFID (Supported by: CARE Bangladesh)

•  Microfinance- CARE INCOME-III Project (Supported by: CARE Bangladesh)

•  Disability & Development (Supported by : Canadian CIDA)

•  Non-formal Education Program (Supported by: Directorate of Non-Formal Education-DNFE)

•  Solid Waste Management & Composting (Supported by: Environment Department/BEMP)

•  Local Government Strengthening Project (Supported by: BITA/ARD)

•  Training for Entrepreneurs Development (Supported by: EDFC and JOBS/USAID)

•  Tree Plantation (Supported by: Costal Greenbelt & Forestry Sector Project of Forest Department)

•  Adolescent Reproductive Health (Supported by: Youth Development Department/UNFPA)

•  Voter and Civic Education Program(Supported by: BCDJC /Asia Foundation & SAMATOT/ BROTEE

•  Jhatka Ban Program(Supported by: CoFCON/ActionAid)

•  Awareness on Health, Nutrition & Family Planning in CCC (Supported by: HASAB)

•  International Volunteer Placement under the Global Exchange Program (Supported by: British Council, VSO & YPSA)

•  National Election Observation-08 ( Supported by: Wave Foundation/Asia Foundation & SAMATOT/ BROTEE )

What can volunteers bring to NOWZUWAN ?

Over the last six years NOWZUWAN has gained experience in dealing with both national and international volunteers.  NOWZUWAN enjoys a strong relationship with BWCA (Bangladesh Work Camp Association), AYAD (Australian Youth Ambassadors for development) which assists NOWZUWAN in offering both short and long term placements (one month to two years) for volunteers.

Volunteers have an amazing opportunity to learn about themselves and the Bangladesh situation by living and experiencing life with local communities; sharing friendships, ideas, culture and experiences. NOWZUWAN views volunteering as a mutually beneficial experience, where skills, knowledge and understanding are shared in pursuit of community development.

It is essential that volunteers approach NOWZUWAN with enthusiasm, a desire to help others and an open mind.  NOWZUWAN staffs are very welcoming of volunteers, are happy to share their knowledge and skills and receive input and new ideas from volunteers. The more initiative, inspiration and creativity that you - as a volunteer - bring to NOWZUWAN, the more experience, satisfaction and joy you can expect to obtain. 

Examples of Volunteer Activities at NOWZUWAN

 

Disability & Development Program

Volunteers receive training regarding various therapy types used with clients with disabilities.  During the course of therapy, volunteers will build relationships with clients and observe the progress of the clients. This is a very personal and intense experience that the volunteer will happily remember for the rest of their lives.

 

Informal Education

This is a service provided for children of small villages whose families lack the resources to send them to school.  NOWZUWAN has informal schools teaching reading and writing, basic English, songs and educational games.  Volunteers will find it very rewarding working with the children and can contribute to this program in different ways relative to their own skills and objectives.

 

Organizational Development(OD)

The volunteer will gain an insight into NOWZUWAN's sustainability, the processes involved with project development and implementation, funding procedures and networking. Volunteers will enjoy the challenges involved with organizational development in overcoming funding, human resource and time constraints and other external inhibitors.

Expertise Required for Current and Future Projects & Internship

. Youth & Adolescent Exchange Program

. Disability ie. Physiotherapist

. Education

. Information Technology (ICT)

. Administration/Organizational Development (OD)

. Networking/Linkage & Proposal Writing/ Fund Rising

. Language Teachers ie. English, Japanese & Spanish

. Environmental

ie. Climate Change, Disaster/Earthquake, Solid waste/Composting, Forestation, Save River , Hill & Beach

. Health ie. Water & Sanitation, Adolescent reproductive

. HIV/AIDS Prevention

. Nutrition/Safe food & Consumer Rights

. Anti Tobacco & Drug Prevention & Road Safety

. Against Child & Women Trafficking

. Human Rights & Good Governance

. Human Resources (HR)

. Publication & Documentation/ Media

. Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E)

. Social Research (Internship)

. Microfinance (Internship)

Accommodation:

General female volunteers may be accommodated by a family or may share accommodation with other volunteers at their own cost (a three bedroom house - at an adequate standard in Western terms - costs approximately 115 $US a month plus expenses). General male volunteers - due to cultural norms in Bangladesh - will be required to rent accommodation at their own cost. NOWZUWAN will assist volunteers to find suitable - in terms of safety, quality of life and cost - accommodation. If provided accommodation with a family, volunteers will enjoy a furnished bedroom with all other facilities - such as dining room, bathroom, kitchen and sitting room - to be shared with the host family. The cost of this room to general volunteers is approximately 43 $US (including gas, water and electricity) per month. If sharing a room with other volunteers, the total boarding cost for a room with a host family can be shared. Furthermore, costs are negotiable depending on the individuals' circumstances. NOWZUWAN has Internet access and STD phone facilities which volunteers may use with minimum payment. Volunteers should carry their own soap, toilet paper, tissues as well as other toiletry items.

Professional volunteers will be provided with accommodation at the cost of NOWZUWAN. Professional volunteers can expect to be either sharing a house with other volunteers or to be provided with their own furnished bedroom with a host family (which is a great way to experience the local culture at a more personal level).

Food:

General volunteers are required to source their food at their own cost. NOWZUWAN will assist volunteers to locate food stuffs from the local markets. Professional volunteers, however, can expect that NOWZUWAN will provide for the expenses of their food needs at NOWZUWAN's arrangement. If living with a host family, volunteers are welcome to utilize the share kitchen to prepare their meals. Volunteers living in a house with other volunteers will have full use of the kitchen to themselves.

It is emphasized that volunteers remain flexible in terms of food as the food in Bangladesh may vary from the food available in their homeland. It appears that most foreigners, over the course of time, enjoy Bangladeshi cuisine at a level of moderate spice. A Bangladeshi meal usually consists of dhal (which is a mix of chickpeas and spices), bhorta (which is a spicy vegetable dish), mutton/beef/chicken/fish dishes and rice. Generally, an individual can comfortably survive on 2 $US per week for vegetables, 5 $US for meat and fish per week and 8 $US per week for other food stuffs (bread, milk, cereals, personal items etc). Furthermore, if volunteers wish to eat out, they may eat at a local restaurant for approximately 0.75 $US or at a five star restaurant for approximately 4 $US.

Clothing:

The majority of women wear a shalwar kameez, which consists of long loose fitting pants, a long shirt and a piece of material (called an orna) over the chest area. Men usually wear a longie (a long piece of material wrapped around the waist) and a collared shirt or long pants and a collared shirt.

In light of cultural norms, sleeveless shirts, short pants and mini skirts are prohibited in Bangladesh (particularly for women) and violators of this prohibition will be asked to discontinue participation with NOWZUWAN. Trousers (Jeans or thick cotton), normal shirts or t-shirts can be brought for use outside of NOWZUWAN working hours and comfortable clothes from home can be brought for use in the home. It is requested that volunteers bring at least one semi formal dress - that is culturally appropriate - for use at functions and formal occasions throughout the program.

Culture:

In this country most of the people are muslim but all so Hindu,Cristan and Buddis people living here. In Bangladesh is divided into six (6) divisions, one of the Chittagong division. There are hill tracts Khagrachhori,Bandoarban and Rangamati in Chittagong.Most of the tribal living here. Are different community like Chakma, Marma, Murag, Rakain etc.That's why Bangladesh has a rich diverse side culture; its deep rooted heritage is thoroughly reflected in its architecture, dance, literature, music , painting and clothing? Bangladesh has a great influence on its culture and history. Bangladeshi people are extremely hospitable and friendly to foreign people.

An orientation session on language, culture, customs, work, the program and condition of Bangladesh/local area will be provided by NOWZUWAN . Foreigners can easily learn the Bengali language and the Bangladeshi traditional culture, life style and heritage. Volunteers will receive the opportunity to undertake excursions and sightseeing tours to the historical & archaeological sites/places (ie.Longest natural sea beach of the world (Cox's Bazar),Sundarbans(Home of Royal Bengal Tiger),SantMartin Island , Chittagong Hill tracts , Petanga & Parkirchar Beach, Natural fish breeding Halda River , Batalli Hill, Tidal areas, Mosques, Temples,Charch,museums, village life, Ship wrecking yards, other NGO works, archaeological sites). When these excursions are associated with NOWZUWAN programs , NOWZUWAN will provide for the travel costs of volunteers.

N.B: Total area of Bangladesh 147570 sq/km (Land area 119624, Forest area 19710, River area 8236).Total area in Chittagong 33771.18 sq/km.Total inhabitance is 2,41,19,660, out of this male 1,23,04,540 and female 1,18,15,120.source The Mappa Ltd 3 rd edition july-2007.

Work Expectations

Volunteers are expected to work (voluntary manual labor) for 6-8 hours per day, 5-6 days per week. Volunteers will cooperate with NOWZUWAN staff and other volunteers in their regular activities. Collectively, volunteers and relevant staff members will negotiate to design the work program of the volunteer.

Comments from previous volunteers 

"I am happy to have been in a camp which has had a terrific outcome - and one which is both tangible and sustainable"

"The quality of the work is exceptionally high and the beauty of the area is incredible"

"I appreciate every one of the staff in NOWZUWAN for helping me learn so many things including NGO activities and culture - thank you so much"

"I was very impressed by your organization.  All members seem to be very enthusiastic, active and committed to work hard for their community and its development "

Working Experience with International Volunteers (Supported By: BWCA, AYAD & VSO)

NAME

ADDRESS

DURATION

Sarah P. Colon

 6909 Strathmore St. Apt. C Chevy Chase , MD 20815 , USA

E-mail : scolon428@yahoo.com

12-01-2001 to

12-04-2001

Claire Magne

Crespin, 12800 Naucelle , France ,

E-mail : clairem3@hotmail.com

10-02-2001 to

27-06-2001

Peter Vredeveld

Zuidermiddenweg 6, 8311 Pj Espel. Holland

E-mail: petervredeveld@yahoo.com

17-06-2001 to

27-06-2001

Charlotte Frohn (Charlie)

Laurentisstrasse 15,59821 Arnsberg , Germany

E-mail: chafro@web.de

03-10-2001 to

19-12-2001

Induk kim (INA)

Seodaemun young chun Samho , Apt.105-305 Seoul, Korea (South). Email: induk@seoul.com

13-01-2001 to

16-01-2001

Beaudoin Yann

8, Rue de Fremont 27310 st Ouen de thouberville, France

E-mail: yannbe@netcurrier.com

27-02-2002 to

19-05-2002

Melena Siebert

Yorckstr 61, 10945 Berlin, Germany,

E-mail: miranzerum@web

07-07-2002 to

16-09-2002

Stephanie Peter

Leichlineer str.6.50679 Kolon, Germany

E-mail: stiffe@web.de

13-07-2002 to

09-10-2002

Atsuko Aoyama

3430-27, Totsuka-cho, Tatsuka-ku, Yokohoma City , Kanagawa Prefecture , Japan , E-mail:awo_o@hotmail.com

29-11-2002 to

12-02-2003

Kanako Ohara

38 Nishikawasshima-cho, Asahi-ku, Yokohama , Japan

E-Mail: travellingkana@hotmail.com

16-10-2003 to

30-12-2003

Toshimi Matsui

1100-10 kitanagaike Nagano-city, Nagano , Japan

Email: matsui@ga2.so-net.ne.jp

16-10-2003 to

21-10-2003

Shiho Makizawa

4-5-15 Sanarudai, Hamamatsu-city-432-8021, Japan

E-mail: s_brilliante@yahoo.com

06-05-2004 to

12-05-2004

Juudith Van Schaik

Rijnkade 43, 3442 EC Woerden, Holland

E-mail: jvanschaik@wanadoo.nl

20-12-2004 to

21-03-2005

Asuka Munakata

30-600 Nakanokaisaku,Ube-Shi,Yamagichi-Ken-759-0203, Japan . E-mail:asukasukasuka_swc_19@yahoo.com

27-06-2005 to

02-11-2005

Oliver Hallett (Olly)

Chelvey Court Chelvey, Bristol , Bs48 4AA, UK

E-mail: ollyhallett@yahoo.co.uk

19-10-2005 to

04-01-2006

Polly Morwenna Procter

7 Clifton Wood crescent, Bristol , BS8 4tu, UK

E-mail: pollyproctor@yahoo.com

11-11-2005 to

08-02-2006
Heidi Davis

 

 Harrisborg , PA 17105 ,Post Box:8585, USA E-mail:DuoDavid@aol.com

14-02-2006 to

25-02-2006

Chitose Nagata

592 Nagama kaminaka-cho Hashima-Shi Gifu 501-6311, Japan . E-mail: ngtchi44@hotmail.com

14-03-2006 to

06-06-2006

Jodie A. Hampson

97 Lindwall street , Mount Gravatt , Queensland 4122, Australia . E-mail: hampson_jodie@excite.com

21-07-2006 to

16-01-2007

Kiyotaka Ikatani

 

9-11 Noma, Iga-shi,Mike-ken,518-023,JAPAN

Email: taiwadesekaiheiwa@hotmail.co.jp

25-03-08 to

01-04-08

Chiyori Misawa

 

Roppongi-View-Tower #1004,1-9-35 Roppongi, Minato-ku,

Tokyo- to, 106-0032, JAPAN . E-mail:besoko@hotmail.com

29-03-2008 to

04-04-2008

Kanako Ohara

38, Nishikawashima-cho,Asahi-ku, Yokohama , Japan 241-0012. E-mail: travellingkana@hotmail.com

02-07-2008 to 14-08-2008

Mami Matsuda

3-12-1-212, Nishigaoka, Izumi-ku, Yokohama, Japan-245-0006. E-mail: mammy_sn_ado@yahoo.co.jp

15-08-2008 to

31-09-2008

Bridget Holtom

School house, Mytholm Bank, Hebden Bridge West Yourkshire HX76DL, UK . E-mail: brijh@hotmail.co.uk

21-12-2008 to27-02-2009

Rachel Jane Sursham

33 Danesbonwer Lane , Blofield, Norwich , Norfolk , England NR13 4LP , UK . E-mail:rachel_jane@hotmail.co.uk

15-12-2008 to 27-02-2009

Akane Kuroiwa

958 Makurazaki Itasikihonmachi Kagusima JAPAN- 858-0965. E-mail: a_07_sky@yahoo.co.jp

03-01-2009 to 02-02-2009

Eumabe Ahn

Daegu Dalseoga jincheondong hyndae(A) 101/509, Korea

E-mil: eunhikong@naver.com

21-01-2009 to 27-01-2008

Minhye Gwak

Daegusi Dalseoga jincheondong jerimhanaro(A) 101/91, Korea . Email: applefish@hanmail.net

21-01-2009 to 27-01-2008

Musha Masayuki

3092 Yamada Niigata City , Nigata , Japan

E-mail : p1710020360@yahoo.co.jp

16-05-2009 to

15-06-2009