EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
The Executive Committee of Action for Rural Advancement (ARA) plays a vital role in ensuring effective governance, strategic direction, and organizational accountability. As a key leadership body, the Executive Committee is responsible for implementing policies, overseeing operations, and guiding the organization toward achieving its mission and vision.
Formed through a democratic process, the Executive Committee reflects ARA’s commitment to transparency, participation, and good governance. It operates in accordance with the organization’s constitution and works closely with the General Committee and management team to ensure the successful implementation of all programs and activities.
🧭 Founder & Executive Director
Sheikh AbulKalam Azad
Founder & Executive Director
ARA (Action for Rural Advancement)
The journey of Sheikh AbulKalam Azad is rooted in a powerful vision—to bring real and lasting change to people’s lives. In 1996, in the quiet coastal region of Satkhira, he witnessed firsthand the struggles of rural communities—families battling poverty, homes destroyed by cyclones and floods, and livelihoods threatened by climate change. Yet, within these challenges, he recognized resilience, strength, and untapped potential.
Motivated by this realization, he founded ARA (Action for Rural Advancement) in 1996, which was officially registered in 1999. What began as a modest initiative gradually evolved into a dynamic development movement. Since 2000, he has been working tirelessly to improve the lives of climate-affected and marginalized communities. Today, ARA operates across 13 districts in Bangladesh, implementing diverse and impactful development programs.
With more than three decades of experience, Sheikh AbulKalam Azad has established himself as a visionary development leader. His work spans community development, climate change adaptation, women’s empowerment, good governance, disaster risk reduction, and social protection. He firmly believes that resilience is built from the ground up and that people-centered development is the key to sustainable progress.
Under his leadership, ARA has implemented innovative initiatives such as climate-resilient housing, WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene), sustainable livelihoods, youth skills development, disaster preparedness, legal aid services, and social accountability programs. His approach goes beyond traditional aid—focusing instead on equipping communities with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to rebuild their lives with dignity.
He has also built strong partnerships with national and international development organizations, successfully designing and implementing projects that bridge grassroots realities with global development practices. His leadership is defined by transparency, accountability, compassion, and active community participation.
Vision: To build a just, resilient, and self-reliant society where all people can live with dignity and equal opportunities.
Leadership Philosophy “Development is meaningful only when it empowers people to lead their own change.” to lead their own change.”
👥 Vice President’s
Edrish Ali Fifteen years ago, he began his career as a lecturer at Kazirhat Degree College. With dedication and vision, he rose to become Principal, guiding students not only through textbooks but also by instilling values of justice, dignity, and responsibility.
Alongside his academic leadership, he became deeply engaged in human rights work, standing with marginalized communities and ensuring their voices were heard.
This commitment led him to ARA, where for the past twenty years he has served as Vice President. His blend of educational leadership and human rights advocacy has strengthened ARA’s mission, making him a vital force in driving change and hope for rural communities.
⚙️Assistant Producer:
DipankarMallik Vice Editor, ARA (Action for Rural Advancement)
For twenty-five years, DipankarMallik has dedicated his life to human rights. His journey began with national NGOs, where he worked tirelessly to defend the dignity of marginalized communities. Over time, his expertise and commitment carried him into international organizations, giving him a broader platform to advocate for justice and equality.
His long experience in both national and international NGOs has shaped him into a leader who understands the struggles of the vulnerable and the importance of building bridges across communities.
Today, as the Vice Editor of ARA (Action for Rural Advancement )Dipankar plays a vital role in advancing the organization’s mission. His efforts have strengthened ARA’s work, ensuring that rural communities are empowered and their voices heard.In addition to his role at ARA, he currently serves as a Coordinator for JICA across several upazilas, where he oversees development initiatives and ensures that local needs are aligned with international standards.
🤝The Treasurer’s
DilaraAkter Treasurer, ARA (Action for Rural Advancement )
DilaraAkter’s journey began in the classroom, where she dedicated herself to teaching and shaping young minds with knowledge and values. But her commitment to society extended beyond education. Believing that progress requires both learning and accountability, she stepped into a new role within ARA.
For the past two years, she has served as the organization’s Treasurer, ensuring financial transparency and supporting the growth of ARA’s initiatives. Balancing her responsibilities as a teacher with her role in organizational leadership, she has proven that dedication and integrity can strengthen both education and community development.
🔍Executive Board Member
Shantana Sarkar Executive Member, ARA (Action for Rural Advancement )
Shantana Sarkar is a dedicated development worker whose career has spanned across several private organizations. Through her professional journey, she has gained valuable experience in advancing social progress and supporting communities in need. For the past eight years, she has been an active member of ARA (Action for Rural Advancement ) As an Executive Member, she has worked tirelessly to promote social.change, strengthen community resilience, and contribute to ARA’s mission of empowering marginalized groups.
Her story reflects commitment and service—a journey that demonstrates how professional expertise and social responsibility can come together to create lasting impact.
🔍Executive Board Member
Salma Sultana Executive Member, ARA (Action for Rural Advancement )
Salma Sultana is a committed development worker whose career spans across various private organizations. Through her professional journey, she has gained valuable experience in advancing social change and supporting communities in need.
For the past eight years, she has been actively involved with ARA (Action for Rural Advancement) as an Executive Member. Her dedication and leadership have strengthened ARA’s mission, helping the organization bring meaningful transformation to rural communities.
Her story reflects responsibility, service, and vision a journey that shows how professional expertise and social commitment can come together to create lasting impact.
🌟 Conclusion
The Executive Committee serves as the backbone of ARA’s governance system. Through strong leadership, strategic oversight, and a commitment to accountability, it ensures that the organization continues to deliver impactful and sustainable development programs.
