Love Beyond Borders: How Bangladeshis Abroad Are Transforming Lives Back Home

When people think of love for their homeland, they often imagine waving flags or cheering for the national cricket team. But for many Bangladeshis living abroad, love for home goes far deeper; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of people they may never meet. This is the story of Dr. Sayema Zerin, a dentist based in suburban Atlanta, whose compassion has crossed borders and transformed the lives of children thousands of miles away.

An Encounter That Changed Everything

In 2013, Dr. Sayema first heard about JAAGO Foundation through its founder, Korvi Rakshand. What struck her most was not just Korvi’s vision but the way he chose to live among the children in the Rayer Bazar slum to truly understand their struggles. For Dr. Sayema, this was more than leadership; it was compassion in action.

That moment planted a seed in her heart. “Seeing him live among the children showed me what real commitment looks like. It wasn’t just about building schools, it was about standing shoulder to shoulder with the children who needed it most.”, says Dr. Sayema.

A Lifelong Commitment

What began as inspiration soon grew into action. By December 2015, Dr. Sayema started sponsoring children through JAAGO Foundation. Today, she proudly sponsors six children, giving them access to education, safety, and a brighter future.

But her commitment didn’t stop there. She went further by donating land for JAAGO’s school in Madaripur, which now serves nearly 300 underprivileged students.

“Supporting JAAGO has been one of the most meaningful decisions of my life. It’s a privilege to be part of a movement that transforms lives through education.”, reflects Dr. Sayema.
 

Standing Beside Bangladesh in Times of Crisis

Dr. Sayema’s generosity has reached beyond the classroom. When Bangladesh faced devastating floods in August 2024, she stepped up to support relief efforts. For her, giving back wasn’t an obligation; it was love in its purest form.

This spirit of solidarity shows how Bangladeshis abroad can stay deeply connected to their roots, even while living on the other side of the world.

Honouring Aysha’s Memory

Perhaps one of the most touching moments of Dr. Sayema’s journey with JAAGO came in the aftermath of a tragedy. Aysha, a bright young student at the Madaripur school, lost her life in a sudden road accident. While the loss shook the entire JAAGO community, Dr. Sayema felt compelled to honour Aysha’s memory in a meaningful way.She organised an art exhibition in the United States, featuring paintings with titles like “Aysha’s Life,” “Aysha’s Bubble,” “Aysha’s Carriage,” and “Aysha’s Paradise.” The exhibition wasn’t just about art; it was about storytelling, remembrance, and hope. All proceeds were donated to JAAGO Foundation in Aysha’s memory, ensuring her legacy would live on by supporting the education of other children like her.

Love That Knows No Borders

Dr. Sayema’s story is a reminder that love for one’s homeland doesn’t fade with distance. Instead, it often grows stronger. By supporting JAAGO Foundation, she has shown how Bangladeshis abroad can play a pivotal role in building schools, uplifting communities, and bringing hope where it’s needed most.

Through the kindness of people like Dr. Sayema, JAAGO Foundation continues to turn hope into reality—one child, one school, and one community at a time.

But there are still countless children in Bangladesh waiting for the chance to learn, dream, and build a brighter future.

You too can be part of this journey by joining JAAGO’s Sponsor a Child initiative. With only BDT 2500/ $27/ GBP 20 a month, you can provide a child in need with access to education, dreams, opportunities and a brighter future. 

Step forward to change a life. Sponsor a Child. Visit: https://jaago.com.bd/sponsor-a-child

FAQs

• How much do I have to contribute?
• Answer: Each sponsor has to contribute BDT 2500/ $27/ GBP 20 a month to Sponsor A Child.
• How frequently do I have to donate?
• Answer: The donations are received on a monthly basis.
• Do I have any say in the child selection process?
• Answer: Yes, you can request the type of child you would like to sponsor or choose from the child profiles provided.
• Is the process transparent?
• Answer: Yes. Sponsors receive result cards, progress reports, etc., to evaluate their sponsored child’s performance.
• Can I meet the child I am sponsoring?
• Answer: Yes. Every sponsor is welcome to meet their sponsored child.