I am a Bangladeshi woman with a professional background in development work, particularly in dealing with gender issues. I have worked in organisations that include Christian Aid UK, Grameen Bank and UNDP. I also write short stories - both fiction and creative non-fiction. My writing is informed and strongly influenced by my development experiences. I am a regular columnist for the Star Magazine, which is affiliated with the largest circulation English language daily newspaper in Bangladesh, the Daily Star. I am a news junkie and a great fan of the UK Independent newspaper, as well as BBC and Al Jazeera.