Somashree Chattapadhya (She/Her) Program Manager, Water.org Bangladesh

 

"I am committed for the betterment of the community especially women in accessing water and sanitation"

Water Experience

I am from a country ( Bangladesh) that ranked 7th in the Climate Risk Index ( 2021). The impact of climate change is very visible in Bangladesh, especially the southern part of Bangladesh. The access to water and sanitation in that region is affected heavily due to saline intrusion, waterlogging and other climatic hazards. It is widely observed that women and children became more vulnerable to water and sanitation crisis when any climatic event happened. Usually, women seem to have a crucial role when it comes to take a long walk to collect water for cooking, drinking, family health and hygiene. The everyday struggle and the success of these women is not recognized neither celebrated enough. Through my work, I tend to partnership with private sector ( micro finance organizations) to provide customized loans for water and sanitation access for women. I have helped my partners to mobilize $30 million as capital. This is a win win situation for both women and the lending institute. I am also design capacity building materials for women water, sanitation and hygiene.

Opportunities of Interest

• Consulting (e.g., government, industry, not-for-profit sector)
• Research (e.g., academic, not-for-profit, government)

Opportunities Offered

• Fieldwork
• Research assistant