Moji Basar was a woman of great strength and courage who dedicated her life to serving her community. Born on October 23, 1967, in Guwahati, India, she grew up in a close-knit family of seven siblings who instilled in her the values of education and hard work. Moji’s passion for learning and helping others led her to pursue a degree in Political Science from Cotton College in Guwahati, followed by a Master’s degree in Social Work from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences in Mumbai.
Moji worked for several years in various organizations, including the United Nations Development Programme, where she focused on empowering women and children. However, it was during her time at the Centre for North East Studies and Policy Research that she discovered her true calling. Witnessing the struggles of people living in rural areas of the Northeast, Moji was deeply moved and determined to make a difference.
In 2001, Moji founded the North East Network (NEN), a women-led organization that aimed to empower women, promote gender equality, and support sustainable development in the Northeast region of India. Through NEN, she tirelessly worked to bring about social change and improve the lives of thousands of people in the region. Moji was a strong advocate for women’s rights and worked to eliminate gender-based violence and discrimination.
Moji’s outstanding work did not go unnoticed, and she received numerous awards and recognition for her contributions. She was awarded the prestigious Ashoka Fellowship in 2010 for her innovative work in social entrepreneurship, and in 2015, she was named a Woman of Distinction by the United Nations for her efforts to promote gender equality.
Despite facing several challenges, including threats to her safety and security, Moji remained committed to her work and continued to inspire others with her dedication and passion. Tragically, Moji passed away on June 9, 2017, after a brief illness. However, her legacy lives on through the North East Network, which continues to carry out her vision and work towards a more just and equitable society.
In conclusion, Moji Basar was a remarkable woman whose contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of many. Her unwavering commitment to social justice, compassion, and courage serve as an inspiration to us all. Her legacy will continue to empower women, and her work will be remembered for generations to come.