The first was in 2020, I was posted in Geneva, Switzerland during the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most significant global events of the 21st century. I was assigned in the WHO wing and saw very closely the sufferings and the impact the pandemic had on our lives. The WHO reminded us, “No one is safe until everyone is safe.” That experience taught me an important lesson: we are not alone, and we can achieve more when we are united, connected and work together. Working with people from different countries, I helped my country, Bangladesh, secure millions of free vaccine doses that helped save lives.
The second experience was in Bahrain, where I served as Chargé d'Affaires. Around 150,000 Bangladeshis are living and working there. While I was in charge, I established a communication channel that enabled people to voice their concerns, report problems, and seek appropriate support and solutions. I realized that even small problems can feel big when you are far from home. I reassured them that they were not alone — that I was there to support them. I wanted them to feel that, even while living on foreign soil, they had a support system they could rely on — a second family that was there to listen to their concerns, provide guidance, and stand by them in difficult times. I can never forget the level of satisfaction I felt when I saw their happiness in receiving that family touch.
After that, I was more motivated by the spirit of HKS: “Ask What You Can Do.” Then I decided to participate in this election to materialize what I can do for you. By the way, this is my first election in life. I want to learn by serving. If elected, I will bring four simple principles that I learned through my professional experiences: Listen. Connect. Solve. Deliver.
I would listen carefully to people's concerns, connect them with the appropriate resources and support, work toward practical solutions, and follow through to ensure that commitments are carried out. For example, many of us are facing housing problems, big or small. Some housing is too old, some places have no lift or AC, or the rent is too high. These are common problems. I will take their concerns to the right places, continue to negotiate, connect with the right people, and work together to turn our shared efforts into positive outcomes. Similarly, we face challenges with food access. Our cafés often close too early, and as students, many of us struggle to find a place to have dinner after a long day of classes, studies, and deadlines.
By listening to your concerns, I will connect you with the right people and resources. I know I cannot solve everything alone, but I can listen, advocate for you, and work alongside you to find practical solutions.
We come from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds. But here at HKS, we are one community. I want to be your voice and your friend — someone you can count on, someone who listens and stands beside you. And I will always be guided by the spirit of HKS: “Ask What You Can Do.” Together, we turn concerns into action.
My dear friends, I sincerely ask for your support and your vote. If entrusted with this responsibility, I will listen, connect, solve, and deliver to the best of my ability.
Thank you very much.
— A K M Mohiuddin Kayes
