Shaila Reza is a distinguished development professional with over three decades of experience in Bangladesh’s NGO sector, dedicated to advancing inclusive development and improving the lives of marginalized and vulnerable communities. She currently serves as the Chairperson of GRACE, where she provides strategic leadership and guidance to strengthen the organization’s mission of empowering communities, particularly those living in hard-to-reach areas. Throughout her extensive career, Shaila has contributed to diverse development initiatives, policy dialogue, organizational strengthening, and strategic planning. Her expertise in leadership, facilitation, and partnership building has enabled organizations and stakeholders to work collaboratively toward sustainable solutions for complex development challenges. Driven by a strong commitment to people-centred development, Shaila believes in creating opportunities that enhance human dignity, resilience, and wellbeing. Her visionary leadership, practical experience, and deep understanding of community needs continue to inspire impactful interventions and meaningful change. Shaila holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Geography from the University of Dhaka.

Dr. Parvin is the Vice Chairperson of GRACE and a distinguished researcher at the College of Policy Science, Ritsumeikan University, Osaka, Japan. With a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree and extensive expertise in environmental policy, urban resilience, disaster risk management, food security, and microinsurance, she brings a unique blend of academic excellence, global research experience, and strategic insight to GRACE’s leadership. At GRACE, Dr. Parvin plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s vision of fostering creativity, connection, and sustainable social impact through evidence-based and community-centred development approaches. She contributes her expertise to strengthening GRACE’s programs in climate resilience, environmental sustainability, food security, and inclusive community development, particularly for vulnerable and underserved populations. Her pioneering research on blue-green infrastructure, climate disaster resilience, and community-based policy solutions has been widely recognized through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at international conferences across Asia, Europe, and beyond. By bridging cutting-edge research with practical field-level action, Dr. Parvin supports GRACE in designing innovative solutions that respond to emerging social, environmental, and development challenges. Known for her collaborative leadership, strategic thinking, and strong global partnerships, Dr. Parvin continues to enhance GRACE’s capacity to create meaningful, scalable, and sustainable change—ensuring that every initiative is grounded in scientific knowledge, local realities, and a deep commitment to improving community wellbeing.

Md. Mamun Or Rashid is a senior development and policy professional with over 13 years of experience in designing, managing, and delivering impactful multi-sector development programs for national and international organizations. As a key member of GRACE’s leadership team, he contributes to advancing the organization’s vision of creating resilient, inclusive, and sustainable communities through evidence-based programming, strategic partnerships, and innovative development solutions. With a strong commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable and underserved populations, Mamun brings extensive expertise across Climate Change Adaptation (CCA), Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), climate resilience, public health, nutrition, WASH, livelihoods, food security, and Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI). His integrated approach connects humanitarian response, development programming, and locally led solutions to address complex social and environmental challenges. Throughout his professional journey, Mamun has successfully managed and provided strategic oversight to donor-funded programs supported by renowned development partners, including KOICA, the European Union (EU), Concern Worldwide, World Bank/SDF, CARE, and icddr,b. His experience encompasses program strategy development, grant and portfolio management, donor compliance, MEAL systems, financial accountability, government coordination, partnership management, and stakeholder engagement from community to national levels. At GRACE, Mamun plays an important role in strengthening program quality, resource mobilization, institutional capacity, and strategic collaboration with development partners. His expertise in policy dialogue, advocacy, knowledge management, and partnership building supports GRACE’s commitment to delivering scalable and sustainable solutions aligned with global development priorities, including climate resilience, social inclusion, and community empowerment. Recognized for his leadership in managing multidisciplinary teams and fostering collaborative partnerships, Mamun promotes approaches grounded in accountability, safeguarding, localization, and meaningful community participation. His professional focus is centered on transforming evidence and innovation into practical actions that create measurable and lasting social impact. Mamun holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology and a Master of Social Science (MSS) in Social Welfare from the University of Dhaka, strengthening his multidisciplinary foundation in public health, social development, and evidence-based policy practice.

Khadiza serves as the Assistant General Secretary of GRACE and represents the voice and aspirations of youth within the community. She is a passionate social activist, development volunteer, and youth advocate dedicated to promoting youth empowerment, inclusive participation, and grassroots leadership. Since joining GRACE in 2023 as a Youth Volunteer Activist, Khadiza has been actively engaged in community-based initiatives, supporting efforts to create meaningful opportunities for young people and marginalized groups. Her commitment, energy, and community-focused approach have contributed to building inclusive platforms where youth perspectives are valued and integrated into development processes. With a strong understanding of local challenges, Khadiza works to encourage youth engagement, social responsibility, and sustainable community solutions. Through her leadership and volunteer experience, she continues to inspire young people to participate in positive social change and contribute to building resilient communities. Khadiza holds a Master of Social Science (MSS) in Social Science, which strengthens her understanding of social development, community dynamics, and inclusive approaches. Combining academic knowledge with practical grassroots experience, she supports GRACE’s mission of fostering creativity, connection, and sustainable social impact.

Molla Nazrul Islam is a development-minded social worker, change-maker and social activist with a strong background in education and community engagement. He holds a Master’s degree in English and is a retired government school teacher, bringing years of experience in teaching, mentoring, community engagement and social development. As Treasurer of GRACE, he contributes his experience, integrity and community perspective to strengthening the organization’s governance and social development initiatives. He remains actively engaged in promoting education, social inclusion, community empowerment and sustainable development, with a strong commitment to creating positive and lasting change in society.

Sadia is an Executive Member of GRACE and a dedicated Youth Leader and Development Volunteer, representing the voice, aspirations, and potential of young people in community development. As a member of the GRACE Executive Board, she actively contributes to advancing youth-led initiatives, education-focused interventions, and inclusive community engagement. Since the expansion phase of GRACE in 2022, Sadia has been actively involved in voluntary community services as a youth leader, supporting grassroots initiatives and promoting meaningful participation of young people in development processes. Her commitment reflects the power of youth engagement in creating innovative solutions, strengthening community resilience, and fostering social inclusion. With a strong academic background in nutrition, food security, and development studies, Sadia brings valuable knowledge and perspectives to GRACE’s programs. She holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Nutrition and Food Security and a Master of Policy and Development Studies from Khulna University (KU), enabling her to connect academic learning with practical community action. Through her leadership, advocacy, and volunteer efforts, Sadia bridges the gap between student leadership and community development, demonstrating the vital role of educated youth in advancing sustainable development goals. Her passion, dedication, and collaborative approach continue to strengthen GRACE’s commitment to empowering communities and nurturing the next generation of development leaders.

Sahajahan is a highly committed community activist and Executive Board Member of GRACE, with more than two decades of experience in grassroots social engagement and community development. Since 2000, he has been actively involved in social activism, working to promote social justice, inclusion, and equitable development for underserved and vulnerable communities. Through his dedication to volunteerism, advocacy, and community mobilization, Sahajahan has played an important role in identifying local challenges and supporting initiatives that strengthen community resilience, empowerment, and sustainable socio-economic progress. His leadership reflects a strong commitment to connecting grassroots priorities with broader development goals. As a member of the GRACE Executive Board, Sahajahan contributes his extensive community experience, local knowledge, and passion for social change to support the organization’s mission of fostering creativity, connection, and sustainable impact. His balanced perspective—rooted in community realities while aligned with global development principles—continues to inspire collective action and inclusive transformation. Sahajahan holds a Master of Arts (MA) degree and continues to dedicate his knowledge, experience, and leadership to advancing community wellbeing and social development.