Fahmeeda Wahab, a prominent development economist and humanitarian, has passed away suddenly in Canada after a brief battle with cancer.
Fahmeeda, who was admitted to the hospital earlier this month, leaves behind a lasting legacy in the fields of development and humanitarian work. She was 64.
Affectionately known as Jhinuk to her family and close friends, she is remembered by loved ones as a compassionate, selfless, and courageous individual. Her family released a statement describing her as “a kind, caring, and brave soul – someone who always put the needs of others before her own. Her compassion, elegance, and warm smile will remain with us eternally.”
A funeral prayer service for Fahmeeda will be held at the Gulshan Azad Mosque in Dhaka on Friday during Jummah prayers. In accordance with her wishes, she will be laid to rest in her ancestral graveyard in Shinepukur, located in Dohar upazila.
Fahmeeda’s remarkable career in development economics and international aid spanned from 1984 to 2024, across multiple countries and organizations. In recent years she shared her time between Ottawa and Dhaka, working in an advisory capacity.
Both professionally and in her personal life, she was the epitome of understated erudition. Beyond her professional accomplishments, her heart was always with the people and causes she worked passionately for.
“We are devastated by her loss but take comfort in the incredible legacy she leaves behind,” her family said. “We will remember her kindness, strength, and the remarkable grace with which she carried herself, especially through times of adversity.”
Fahmeeda is survived by her husband, Amer, her two children, Promiti and Prodipto, her family and friends, and the community she worked to cultivate.
Fahmeeda Wahab’s passing is not only a significant loss for her family but also for the broader community of development professionals and humanitarian workers who have been touched by her work
