Six Bangladeshi-Canadian women have received the PACE-RMM Women Achievers Award for their ‘contributions and commitment to the community’.
The recipients were:
Ottawa-based social worker and politician Rasheda Nawaz, who won the ‘Woman of Distinction Award’
Chayanika Dutta, who received the award for her work in the legal profession
Shahnaz Perveen, who received the Women Entrepreneur Award
Rusmita Alam, who received the award for Fashion Design
Sheira Haq and Dr Shahida Sultana, who received a joint award in the health and wellness category.
The awards ceremony was part of the ‘Colour of Joy’ event organised by non-profit PACE and infotainment channel Radio Metro Mail to celebrate the Bangla New Year 1424, the 150th anniversary of the confederation and the achievements of Bangladeshi-Canadian women in Canada.
The prizes were presented by Western University, Ontario President Dr Amit Chakma.
During his speech the president emphasised the need for the global empowerment of women and the need for a tolerant and multicultural society.
“Bangladeshi-Canadian Women demonstrated their strengths, commitment and positive influence in many occasions,” he said. “They have shown their resilience against any odds and inspired the community. I appreciate such event, which celebrates Bengali New Year, Canada’s 150th anniversary together with struggles and achievements of Bangladeshi Women in Canada”.
The call for open-mindedness was supported by Rasheda Nawaz.
“Tolerance and respect for other cultures go hand in hand,” she said. “We must learn how to respect others in a multicultural environment.”
The venue was adorned with various Pahela Baishakh decorations and showcased a display of Mongol Shobhajatra mask replicas.
A number of prominent community members attended the event, including members of provincial and federal parliaments.
Bangladeshi expatriate artists performed traditional Bangla songs and a variety of traditional cuisine, including various pithas, was available for guests.
