Saima Wazed

Saima Wazed, First Lady Michelle Obama, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and President Barack Obama in New York, September 2009.

Saima Wazed Hossain is a prominent figure in the field of mental health, autism, and neurodevelopmental disorders on both a national and international level. She is widely recognized for her advocacy and efforts to improve the lives of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders and their families. Saima Wazed has been instrumental in raising awareness and understanding of autism and related disorders in Bangladesh and around the world.

Early Life and Education

Saima Wazed Hossain was born into a prominent political family in Bangladesh. She is the daughter of Sheikh Hasina, the current Prime Minister of Bangladesh, and the granddaughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh. Saima pursued her higher education in the United States, where she obtained a degree in Psychology and later specialized in School Psychology and Public Health.

Career and Advocacy

Saima Wazed has dedicated a significant part of her career to working with individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly those with autism. Her work extends beyond clinical practice to include advocacy and policy-making. She has been a key figure in initiating and promoting various programs and policies aimed at supporting individuals with autism and their families in Bangladesh and internationally.

National Initiatives

In Bangladesh, Saima Wazed has been a driving force behind the government's adoption of comprehensive policies and programs for individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders. She played a pivotal role in the establishment of the National Advisory Committee on Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Bangladesh, under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Her efforts have led to the development of national strategies and action plans to address the needs of individuals with autism and neurodevelopmental disorders.

International Recognition

Globally, Saima Wazed's work has been recognized by various international organizations. She serves as a member of the World Health Organization's Expert Advisory Panel on Mental Health. Her advocacy has contributed to the global dialogue on autism and neurodevelopmental disorders, influencing policy and raising awareness at an international level.

Awards and Honors

Saima Wazed has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to mental health and disability rights. Her dedication to improving the lives of individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders has been acknowledged both in Bangladesh and internationally.

Personal Life

Saima Wazed maintains a low profile regarding her personal life, focusing her public presence on her professional and advocacy work. She is married and has children, and she often shares insights from her personal experiences to advocate for families affected by neurodevelopmental disorders.

Legacy and Impact

Saima Wazed Hossain's work has had a profound impact on the perception and treatment of autism and neurodevelopmental disorders in Bangladesh and across the globe. Her advocacy has led to significant policy changes and increased awareness, improving the lives of countless individuals and families dealing with these challenges.