Dutch mom's dream orphanage in Bangladesh

Dutch banker and travel agent Joanna Wittekoek, who now goes by the name 'Dutch Mother', fell in love Bangladesh and the children of the orphanage, 'Dutch Shalom Family for Children', and decided to devote her life to the cause.

Dutch banker and travel agent Joanna Wittekoek came to Bangladesh more than a decade ago, but soon found it difficult to leave. In 2006, she came across an orphanage, founded by another Dutch friend who wanted her to take charge.

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Thus began her journey with ‘Dutch Shalom Family for Children’, where she had found her calling. Located in Savar, the orphanage is an interactive and productive home for children regardless of age or religion. 

Joanna devoted herself in running the orphanage along with the help of a few staff. Sk Abu Mahadi, who had come to give a motivational speech but like Joanna fell in love with the children and decided to contribute his time to their development.

She gets local financial help for running it. The wonderful and talented call her Dutch Mother.