Bangladesh New Zealand Friendship Society (BNZFS) is an Auckland-based association of expatriate Bangladeshis living and working in New Zealand. Established in 1991, the Bangladesh New Zealand Friendship Society (BNZFS) is a membership-based, non-profit organization with no affiliation to any political parties in Bangladesh or New Zealand. The organization is dedicated to helping Bangladeshis living in New Zealand advance their opportunities by promoting Bangladeshi culture, language, and self-respect. It also offers a safe space for practicing and developing the values, knowledge, and skills needed to maintain one’s identity, deal with life’s challenges, and engage in a multiethnic and multicultural society.
Vision
- Recognize and integrate community members to foster their potential for local and global benefit.
Mission
- Facilitate the integration of members into New Zealand society through various programs.
- Provide a platform and center for members to preserve and share Bangladeshi values, arts, culture, and more, contributing to New Zealand’s diverse society.
- Establish dedicated facilities for camping, performing arts, education, and media, emphasizing sharing resources.
Goal
- Enhance community members’ sense of respect, engagement, integration, and support.
- Enable the community to positively influence social, cultural, economic, and political spheres in New Zealand.
BNZFS Activities
The Bangladesh New Zealand Friendship Society (BNZFS) aims to support Bangladeshis in New Zealand by promoting their culture, language, and self-respect within a multicultural society. The BNZFS achieves its mission through various activities:
- Cultural and National Celebrations:
- Bangladesh Independence Day (Shadhinota)
- Bangladesh Victory Day (Bijoy)
- International Mother Language Day (Ekushey)
- Bangla New Year (Boishakhi)
- Rabindra-Nazrul Celebration (Jayanti)
- Religious festivals (Ramadan, Eid, Puja)
- Cultural evenings
- Community Engagement:
- Overnight camping and picnics
- Bangla language school
- Sports and games
- Media and Information:
- Publication of “Ayojon” magazine and a newsletter
- Bangla Library service
- Bangla Radio programs
- Support Services:
- Migrant services and seminars
- Research initiatives
- Women’s programs
- Crisis Response:
- Create awareness and provide direct assistance during crises (natural disasters, etc) in Bangladesh and New Zealand.
Team:
President: Khan Safayet Hossin
Vice President: Mohammad Rubayet Sattat
General Secretary: Omar Farukue
Member: Shahper Myshary
Member: Shanjida Alam
Member: Aziaza Akter Shoheli
Patron: Ataur Rahman MNZM