Aktarina
Mosammat Akterina leads a life defined by quiet strength and resilience. Her husband works as a day labourer in construction, and alongside managing all household responsibilities, Akterina is the primary carer for her 18-year-old son, Ronik Hasan, who lives with a mental health condition.
For years, her world remained confined within the walls of her home. The demands of caring left little room for social interaction, recognition, or rest. Like many carers, her
dedication often went unseen. Akterina is an active member of her local carers group, set up and run by Carers Worldwide and the Centre for Disability in Development. Through this group, she learned about a special Iftar gathering organised by CDD in Development (CDD) in collaboration with Carers Worldwide: an event dedicated to honouring carers like her. For Akterina, attending this gathering was not just about sharing a meal: it was a completely new and meaningful experience. The event was warm, and welcoming. Surrounded by fellow carers, Akterina felt a sense of belonging she had rarely experienced before. For the first time in her life, she felt seen, valued, and respected by society.
With emotion she shared “This is the first time in my life that I have been socially recognised. It is a moment of great pride for me.” This simple yet powerful experience marked a turning point in her life. Stepping outside her routine and being part of a community event helped her rediscover her own identity beyond being a carer. It strengthened her confidence and gave her a renewed sense of dignity and self-worth.
Akterina expressed her heartfelt gratitude to CDD and Carers Worldwide for creating such an inclusive and respectful space for carers. For her, this was more than an Iftar: it was a moment of recognition, connection, and hope. Her story is a reminder that even small gestures of inclusion can create lasting emotional impact, empowering carers to feel valued as vital members of society.
