Fazle Hasan Abed Receives the World Food Prize'15

Renowned Bangladeshi Social Worker and founder of BRAC, Sir Fazle Hasan Abed has been awarded the World Food Prize of 2015. The award giving ceremony took place at the Iowa State Capitol on October 16, 2015 which is also the World Food Day. Through a press release, the U.S. Department of State has announces the winner of 2015 World Food Prize back in July of this year.

Mr. Abed was awarded for his and his Organization's contribution on alleviating poverty in his native Bangladesh and 10 other countries through various development programs. His model highly emphasizes on educating and empowering women and thus lifting them out of poverty.

The U.S. Department Of States stated:

Sir Fazle’s unparalleled achievement in building the unique, integrated development organization BRAC, which is headquartered in Bangladesh and operates programs in 10 other countries around the globe. Since its creation over 40 years ago, Sir Fazle’s organization has provided the opportunity to nearly 150 million people worldwide to improve their lives, enhanced food security, and created pathways out of poverty through its dynamic development programs.

Coming from a Bengali family and spending most of my teenage years back in Dhaka, Bangladesh, BRAC is a pretty common name for me and for many others. Almost every single city in Bangladesh has a BRAC branch and its nearly impossible to overlook their signboards with popular logo on it. I think almost all Bangladeshi would understand what exactly I am talking about.

I got to know in details about BRAC and Sir Abed's work through my uncle back in the 90's. So, basically witnessing Sir Abed receiving his much deserved World Food Prize wasn't that much of a surprise for me. Fact of the matter is, I think it took little too long for the world to recognize Sir Abed's work. I mean seriously, 40 years is a very long time by any standard. Nevertheless, I am personally very proud to see Sir Abed has finally got the award.

I would like to take is opportunity to personally congratulate Sir Fazle Hasan Abed for his vision, dedication, hard work and for finally winning the award. It's definitely a much deserved one, sir. We wish you all the best and good health. May your mission of a poverty free Bangladesh and World becomes true.

You can find the full video of the World Food Price giving Ceremony of 2015 on YouTube.