Our goal for the first two days in Bangladesh was to make some kind of action, which could make a difference. We were lucky to get in contact with Badal, a man from Dhaka who is involved in NGO work in Bangladesh. He turned out to have many useful contacts! We mentioned our ideas to Badal, one of them being to clean up a city park. Before we knew it, everything was settled. So at 7 in the morning on the last day of the year, we set off to Ramna Park.
Before the action could start, all girls were invited to make morning exercises in the women’s section of the park. A very entertaining and enjoyable activity. The women were so lively and friendly.
Then it was time for the grand opening ceremony. With one days notice, the two organizations, which were involved in the action had gathered more than 100 people to join us! We started of from one corner of the park in a big march.
The opening took place in the centre of the park, and a number of people gave a small speech (including Pjort!) The atmosphere was really good, and it was clear that people found it very special that this group of young people from Denmark had taken such an initiative. Media was also there, both TV and newspapers.
In the following 3 hours we made a good effort together with the people of Bangladesh, in cleaning the huge park. We didn’t by far reach the whole park, but that doesn’t matter. What we did, was to set an example, and create some awareness. And we are not in doubt that many people in Dhaka noticed and have heard about our action.
Three teenage girls who joined us spontaneously were so happy and grateful. They thanked us for teaching them about caring for their environment, and told us that because of this action, they had now decided to never again throw another piece of rubbish on the ground. That is something! I believe we did make a small difference, and we all enjoyed a lot. A good way of ending a special year!
