By Tahsin Miti, past District 3281 (Bangladesh) Interact representative; past president, Interact Club of Dhaka Paramount
The monsoon season had wreaked havoc in Sylhet City, Bangladesh, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair. The once-quaint villages were submerged under the relentless downpour, and the lives of thousands hung in the balance. As my Rotary district’s Interact representative, I found myself at the center of a whirlwind of emotions and challenges with a deep-seated desire to make a difference.
Our mission was clear – to extend a helping hand to the flood-affected families in the region. With a group of passionate Interactors by my side in July of 2022, we embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on our hearts and reaffirm the power of collective action.
It all began with a meeting, where we discussed the situation in Sylhet. Floodwaters had ravaged homes, destroyed crops, and left families struggling to make ends meet. Interact members were quick to respond. We knew that we couldn’t stand idly by as our fellow citizens suffered.
The first hurdle was sourcing the necessary funds to execute our plan. We organized fundraising events from my Interact Club of Dhaka Paramount, reached out to local businesses, and even started an online campaign. The response was overwhelming. A total of 63 Interact clubs participated in fundraising. The community rallied behind us, demonstrating that, in times of crisis, compassion and unity shine the brightest. The Rotaract Club of Dhaka Orchid and Rotary Club of Dhaka also supported us in this initiative.
The process of raising funds was an eye-opener for many of us. We learned the value of perseverance, teamwork, and community engagement. The generosity of those who contributed served as a reminder that people are inherently good, and the power of collective action is immeasurable.
Interact is not just an extracurricular activity; it is a platform that nurtures future leaders, instills values, and teaches us that, indeed, united we stand.
With the funds secured, the next challenge was planning the logistics of the relief mission. We collaborated with Rotaract clubs, local organizations, and Rotary clubs to ensure that our efforts were well-coordinated. The enthusiasm of the Interactors and Rotaractors was palpable as they took on various roles, from liaising with authorities to organizing food packaging and transportation.
Despite the rain, we carried on with unwavering determination. The resilience of the Interactors was truly inspiring. Together, we felt the weight of responsibility on our shoulders but also the warmth of unity in our hearts.
Distribution day was met with both excitement and anxiety. We had worked tirelessly, and now it was time to see the fruits of our labor. We were accompanied by members of the Interact clubs of Dhaka, Tongi, and Sylhet Premier. As we entered the flood-affected villages, our hearts ached at the sight of inundated homes and the hardship etched into the faces of the villagers.
Our efforts were rewarded with smiles and gratitude from the recipients. It was a humbling experience to witness the transformation of sorrow into hope. Families received rice, lentils, clean water, and other essential supplies. We listened to their stories, offered a sympathetic ear, and provided the assurance that they were not alone in their struggle.
I couldn’t be prouder of my team. They showcased leadership, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to service above self. Our efforts might not have completely eradicated the pain of those affected by the floods, but they served as a beacon of hope in their darkest hour.
This journey was a testament to the fact that when young minds come together with a shared purpose, they can accomplish remarkable things. Interact is not just an extracurricular activity; it is a platform that nurtures future leaders, instills values, and teaches us that, indeed, united we stand.
In the midst of disaster and despair, we discovered the incredible power of hope, compassion, and collective action. The floodwaters may have receded, but the memories of our journey as Interactors during that time will forever flow in our hearts, reminding us of our duty to serve, today and always.
Learn more about how Rotary, Rotaract, and Interact clubs help provide disaster relief.
https://blog.rotary.org/2023/10/31/uniting-for-hope-interactors-provide-flood-relief-in-bangladesh/