Bangladesh
Bangladesh has a population of around 143 million and is amongst the most densely populated countries in the world. This beautiful country has borders with India and Myanmar and lies largely on a low-lying river delta region.
Oasis work began here in 2003, setting up a mechanical training centre for a local partner and targeting marginalized young men. Currently, we running a new transformational business; are working with 200 families in one of Dhaka’s poorest communities, and are in the initial stages of an anti-human trafficking initiative.
Reena's Story
11-year-old Reena is a quiet, pretty girl. Two years ago, she came to Dhaka with her family in the hope of a better life than they had in their village. Unfortunately, as is the case for so many families, things didn't turn out as expected and they ended up in the Duaripara slum on the outskirts of Dhaka.
Her father was able to earn some money by decorative painting on children's hands, which is a Bangladeshi festive tradition, and her mother and older sister work in a garments factory. However, even with the whole family working hard, their low wages meant they couldn't afford to pay for Reena's education - something that was vital if Reena was to have the hope of a better life.
At this point Reena joined the Oasis Duaripara Family Development Project where girls aged 8-15 are given opportunities to develop their potential through education and training. Reena was doing well with her studies so she was encouraged to try for a place in a local NGO school and was then able to get back into the formal education system. Reena still comes to the Duaripara Family Development Project in the afternoons where she finds support and extra coaching to help her in her studies.
Through this scheme, more and more girls from the community are able to continue their education to a level that will open up opportunities for them in the future.
"I'm now in Class 4!" Reena explains, "I enjoy studying and now want to become a Doctor. I feel I have a bright future ahead of me!"