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Written by Esther Smitheram

September 8th, 2025

This article takes 2 min to read

Two Rohingya teachers inspire a New Library of Hope

The powerful stories of two Rohingya refugee teachers are now helping to shape a brand new series of books for displaced children around the world. We're proud to say that the experiences of Asmida and Senora, who we support in Kutupalong camp, Bangladesh, are at the heart of this inspiring project.
Teachers Asmida and Senora

The 'Read for Resilience' series by NABU is described as a 'growing library of stories designed to help children find strength, hope, and healing, especially those living through crisis.' For children displaced by war, forced from home, or simply navigating a difficult chapter, NABU believes every child deserves to see themselves in a story that reminds them they are not alone.

In 2024, Asmida and Senora gave extensive interviews, generously sharing their experiences of fleeing extreme violence and living in the world's largest refugee camp. They spoke to NABU about Rohingya culture and what life is like for children who have grown up as refugees in Bangladesh. Their insights have been woven into the fabric of this new book series, inspiring the illustrations, and shaping the characters, settings, and storylines.

Meet Asmida

Born in Myanmar, Asmida is now an educator in the Kutupolong refugee camp, deeply committed to helping her students learn and thrive. Despite the camp's challenging conditions, she works hard to create a safe, positive, and well-equipped classroom, tailoring her teaching to meet her students' diverse needs. Even while facing her own personal struggles from a traumatic past, Asmida's dedication remains unwavering. Her profound impact is evident in her students, who are not only enjoying fun and laughter in her lessons but are also growing into confident and respectful individuals.

Meet Senora

Guided by her teacher father, Senora developed a love for learning from a young age and became a beloved primary and middle school teacher in her home village in Myanmar. In 2017, when widespread violence forced her to flee, her life was shattered. Yet, her determination to keep educating the children around her never wavered. She found refuge and a new opportunity to teach at a school in the Kutupalong refugee camp, where she now provides Rohingya children with knowledge and hope.

Now the books have been published, Jess from NABU has presented the new storybooks to Asmida and Senora in an online meeting. The teachers loved seeing the illustrations and how their stories had contributed to the characters and plots. They were proud to be part of creating books that enable refugee children to see themselves, and feel a sense of belonging.

Find out more about the Read for Resilience collection, take a peek at one of the books, and read how we support education for Rohingya children in Bangladesh.

TUNE IN AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Presented by actress Susannah Fielding, don't miss our upcoming BBC Radio 4 Appeal, where you'll hear the inspiring story of Rohingya refugee children who are finally learning to read and write in their own language.

Sunday 12th October 07:54am or 9:25pm. Repeated on Thursday 16th October at 3.27pm. We’d be so grateful if you could listen and donate.

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