The awards given by Unilever Bangladesh Ltd finally put the spotlight on them yesterday evening.

A total of 10 elderly people were honoured at a reception in the city in recognition of their contribution to society.

Through a programme titled 'Shada Moner Manush' (man of benevolent soul), Unilever Bangladesh took the initiative to find out the people who are working selflessly to transform society.

Each of the 10 people was awarded a gold medal, crest, and cheque for Tk one lakh at the reception ceremony.

The awardees are Abdul Malek Hawlader, a teacher in Madaripur, Binapani Sarkar, a social worker in Joypurhat, Abdul Mazid, founder of a physically challenged children care centre, Honufa Begum, founder of a orphanage in Jessore, Dr Shamsuddin, founder of a orphanage in Rajshahi, Sufia Ahmed, founder of a free child treatment centre in Rajshahi, Sri Kanu Dutta, a social worker in Feni, Mokhlesur Rahman, a teacher in Comilla, Ziaul Haq, founder of a big library in Chapainawabganj who is a curd seller by profession, and Harun-or-Rashid, a teacher in Dinajpur.

Although it is difficult to find out such selfless and benevolent people, there are many who have been working silently for the welfare of the society even without getting any cooperation, speakers at the ceremony said.

Industries Adviser Geeti Ara Safiya Chowdhury, former adviser to the caretaker government Dr Akbar Ali Khan, eminent artist Mostafa Monowar, singer Kalim Sharafi, Prof Abdullah Abu Sayeed, Syed Manzoorul Islam and former lawmaker Asaduzzaman Noor were present at the programme.

Brands and Development Director of Unilever Bangladesh Naushad Karim Chowdhury said they have taken this initiative to highlight the selfless acts of these people in order to inspire and encourage others to work for the betterment of the country and its people.