New Bangladesh – Blackstone’s Vision Paved by Chairperson

Supporting the Workers Who Keep Sylhet Moving

In Sylhet, Ms. Granville witnessed the challenges faced by the “invisible workers” who form the backbone of the town. These hard working individuals keep life moving, yet many rely on remittances from family members abroad to meet their basic needs. Recent disruptions have left them vulnerable, unable to access funds to purchase food or support their families.

Ms. Granville volunteered at the cooked food program in Sylhet, an initiative designed to provide immediate relief to those in desperate need. Meals are freshly prepared and offered with dignity, ensuring families have sustenance during challenging times.

Her compassion for these workers underscores Blackstone’s commitment to bridging gaps for those who contribute so much yet often receive so little in return.

A Vision Without Street Children

In Dhaka, Ms. Granville visited Blackstone’s programs dedicated to street children, whose lives are often defined by hardship and uncertainty. These children face countless risks, yet they are also filled with potential and dreams. Blackstone is working tirelessly to ensure they have access to shelter, protection, and pathways to a brighter future.

Ms. Granville shared her aspiration for a world where no child is forced to live on the streets. She believes that through holistic support and community-driven efforts, this vision can become a reality.

“It is not enough to simply provide short-term solutions for these children. We must address the root causes of why they end up on the streets in the first place. In any case every child deserves the chance to grow, learn, and dream and they should be able to do so with a loving family” she said.

Water as a Lifeline

One of the most transformative aspects of Ms. Granville’s visit was her time in rural Sylhet, where she saw the impact of Blackstone’s clean water initiatives. Families who once walked miles to fetch water now have access to safe and reliable hand pumps.

Clean water is not just a necessity but an essential part of life. It is transformative in every way.  

“Girls can stay in school rather than carrying heavy water containers for hours each day. Families are healthier, free from the diseases that unsafe water often brings. Livelihoods improve, and communities thrive with the stability that clean water provides” she said. 

This program is supported through Blackstone’s Zakat initiatives, ensuring that every donation directly contributes to saving lives and sustaining families.

Empowering every Bangladeshi  

Throughout her visit, Ms. Granville met with local leaders and young volunteers who are driving small but impactful transformations in their communities. Ms. Granville envisions a Bangladesh where these efforts grow into a national wave of progress, powered by the energy and dedication of its people.

Blackstone’s youth volunteer network is at the heart of this vision. By empowering young people to take ownership of local challenges, the organisation is nurturing a new generation of custodians. 

Ms. Granville emphasized the importance of collaboration, saying, “When individuals take action in their own communities, they become the catalysts for change. Together, these small efforts create a movement that touches the entire country.”

Building Bridges Between Bangladesh and the World

Ms. Granville believes that the world has much to gain from experiencing the beauty, hospitality, and culture of Bangladesh. She hopes to attract more international volunteers to the country, fostering global friendships and a sense of shared humanity.

“When people from around the world visit Bangladesh, they see its incredible potential and the kindness of its people. It is only through these connections that we can truly help each other as neighbors and friends,” she shared.

Her vision is to not only empower Bangladeshis but also to bring the world closer together, creating partnerships that drive mutual understanding and progress.

A New Bangladesh

Under Ms. Granville’s leadership, Blackstone Charity continues to offer hope and create opportunities for a better future. From providing clean water to feeding hardworking families and supporting vulnerable children, Blackstone is making a tangible difference every day.

This is a vision of a New Bangladesh, one built on resilience, compassion, and the strength of its people. It is a vision of a world where no one is invisible and everyone has the chance to thrive. Blackstone is walking this path hand in hand with the communities it serves, bringing light and hope wherever it is needed most.

For more information about Blackstone’s work or to get involved, visit our website blackstonecharity.co.uk Together, we can build a brighter tomorrow.