ARIF HOSSAIN

CEO & Executive Director

Md. Arif Hossain is an accomplished CEO and Executive Director at Farming Future Bangladesh (FFB). Arif also leads Advocacy and Communication at Feed the Future Global Biotech Potato Partnership, Bangladesh, under Michigan State University. With a Visiting Fellow role at Cornell University, a 2023 Global Fellow at Michigan State University, and recognition as a 2015 Alliance for Science Global Leadership Fellow at Cornell University, Arif's global development expertise shines. He heads the Bangladesh Alliance for Science and has contributed significantly to Feed the Future South Asia Eggplant Improvement Partnership and the International Rice Research Institute. He has made significant contributions to both national and international development organizations, as well as the media, advertising, and public relations sectors. Beyond his achievements, Arif's fervor for science, communication, and photography stands out. Hosting "Deepto Krishi Sanglap," a weekly TV talk show, he addresses sustainability, food security, climate change, and equitable innovation access – embodying his commitment to global progress.

Anwar Faruque

Advisor- Advocacy and Policy Affairs

Anwar Faruque takes the role of Advisor- Agriculture & Public Administration in FFB. With his extensive expertise in public administration, parliamentary affairs, and agricultural policy and legislation, he has been a valuable resource for government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector. His contributions to the seed industry have been instrumental in improving the quality and quantity of crops, thereby enhancing food security in the country. He has over 40 years experience in several Ministries of Bangladesh, working with Relief and Disaster Management, Cabinet Division, NGO Affairs, Prime Minister’s Office, Finance and Banking, Parliamentary Affairs and Ministry of Agriculture. Mr. Anwar's dedication to his work and his passion for agriculture has earned him widespread recognition and respect. He is a sought-after speaker and has published numerous articles on Food Security in Bangladesh.

Gazi Shameem Hosain

Specialist- Finance & Admin

Gazi Shameem Hosain looks after accounts, finance & admin as with over 16 years experience in the field. He is an expert when it comes to effective client & vendor relationship, complex issue identification and mitigation, and meeting financial & administrative objectives with innovative solutions. He has completed both M. Com and B. Com in Accounting. Prior to FFB, he has worked with various reputed organisations some of which include, Eusof Group, PRIP Trust, WARID Telecommunications, United Purpose, Powerbreeze Engineering Ltd., Grameen Trust. He also worked in various prominent projects funded by USAID, UKAID, Coca-Cola, and more. Shameem is a salient member of the team who looks after the most tedious challenges.

Samira Khalil

Manager- Project Management & Communication

Samira Khalil, Manager of Project Management & Communication for the Feed the Future Insect-Resistant Eggplant Partnership (IREP), expertly develops and implements communication and outreach strategies that drive agricultural innovation. Her proficiency in both project management and strategic communication ensures the successful execution of initiatives aimed at enhancing food security and sustainability. She previously served as the Assistant Manager of Business Development and External Affairs at Farming Future Bangladesh, where she played a key role in building strategic partnerships and stakeholder engagement. Her professional journey also includes roles such as Relationship Manager at AGROHO, focusing on partnerships and project implementation, and Communication Officer at Technosoft Academy in New York, where she orchestrated job seminars for New York-based business associations. Samira's internship at the Bangladesh Center for Communication Programs (BCCP) provided her hands-on experience in public health and social development campaigns. Her dedication to leadership and community development is demonstrated by her participation in a Women's Leadership seminar in China and support for fundraising events with organizations like Dayemi Tariqat and For Kid’s Sake. Samira holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication and Media Arts, graduating Magna Cum Laude from American International University Bangladesh (AIUB).

Ishrat Sharmin

Manager- Communication & Project Management

Ishrat Sharmin is the Communication and Project Management Manager at FFB dedicated for the Feed the Future Global Biotech Potato Partnership Project (FtFGBPP) in Bangladesh. She has dedicated her profound experience to strategic communication planning, stakeholder engagement, content development, event coordination, crisis communication and other interdisciplinary activities. Her multidimensional experience in regulatory compliance, corporate governance, communication and project management skills has enabled her to navigate challenges and create impactful outcomes in that role. Her career journey includes a pivotal role in coordinating Information System Audit for Banglalink Digital Communication Limited, a subsidiary of global digital operator VEON. This experience fortified her proficiency in regulatory compliance and stakeholder management. Additionally, her tenure at Rancon Electronics, where she contributed to business development, equipped her with a keen sense of communication and marketing strategies, particularly in the retail sector. Previously, Ishrat served as deputy manager at Paramount Textile Ltd., where she collaborated with international fashion brands and spearheaded the effluent treatment plant (ETP) project, ensuring environmental safety and water waste management standards were met impeccably. Ishrat holds a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Business Administration from North South University. Driven by a strong passion for societal and environmental welfare, she remains dedicated to utilizing her knowledge and expertise for the betterment of communities and the planet.

Mustare Ahamed Madobe

Research Associate

Mustare Ahamed Madobe is the only member from FFB assigned to Bangladesh Agriculture and Research Institute (BARI) as a full-time Research Associate in the Biotechnology Division where she practises her skills and knowledge in plant genetics, genetic engineering, tissue culture, plant pathology, plant breeding and so on. She worked on morphological and molecular characterization of maize inbred populations during her Master’s research. As a young researcher, she is passionate about developing the agro-sector through biotechnological approaches and is on an agenda to eradicate global hunger. Previously, Mustare held the position of Telemarketing Research Officer at Supreme Seed Company, where she specialised in agro-based digital marketing, communication, and consultancy demonstrating outstanding leadership skills with constant guidance and support to her team. Mustare firmly believes that sustainable growth can be achieved through the collaborative efforts of individuals, coupled with advancements in science and technology, nurtured in an enabling environment.

Abdul Mannan

Associate- Multimedia & Communication

Abdul Mannan is a skilled professional in the field of video editing and motion graphics design, currently serving as Associate- Multimedia & Communication at FFB. With over 5 years of experience, he is known for his ability to create visually appealing and professional content with ease. Prior to his current role, Mannan held positions as Graphic & Video Content Creator at Friends of Freedom in New York and Video & Motion Editor at FARGO - Safe & Nutritious Food. He honed his craft by completing Certificate Courses in Motion Graphics from Motion School and Video Editing from Pathshala South Asian Media Institute. Outside of his professional endeavors, Mannan enjoys indulging in his hobbies, which include reading books, watching movies, and cooking for his loved ones.

Md. Abdulla Sheikh

Office Assistant

Abdullah - a dedicated Office Assistant who takes care of various tasks and responsibilities in the office. He is a hardworking individual who is always ready to assist his colleagues and superiors. With his excellent communication skills, Abdullah interacts with clients and visitors in a professional and courteous manner. He ensures that everything is in order, well-stocked, and organised to facilitate smooth and efficient operations. Abdullah's attention to detail and ability to multitask make him an asset to the office. He takes pride in his work and demonstrates a positive attitude and willingness to learn, which has made him an indispensable member of the team.

Ali Hossain

Chairman

Mehenaz Rahman

Director

Dr. Sheila Ochugboju

Executive Director at Alliance for Science

Dr. Sheila Ochugboju is a futurist, international development expert and communication specialist who has been working in research science and international development for more than 15 years. She most recently served as Head of Strategic Communications for the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). In addition to senior management roles in Kenya, Ghana and Nigeria, she has worked with international think tanks, various United Nations agencies, multilateral institutions and philanthropic organizations across Europe, Africa and Asia. Sheila is an inaugural TED Africa Fellow and co-founder of Africa Knows, a knowledge management and media consultancy. She earned a Bachelor of Science in medical biochemistry and a Ph.D. in plant biochemistry from the University of London and completed a post-doctoral research fellowship in baculovirus expression at the University of Oxford. Sheila, who has four grown children, currently resides in London and will be relocating to Ithaca, New York.

DR. RONNIE COFFMAN

Professor at Cornell University

Ronnie Coffman serves as International Professor of Plant Breeding and Director of International Programs of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University. He also serves as Principal Investigator of the Agricultural Biotechnology Support Project (ABSPII), the Durable Rust Resistance in Wheat project, the Agricultural Innovations Partnership, and the NextGen Cassava Project. Previous positions include Associate Dean for Research and Director, Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station; Chair of the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, and Plant Breeder at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). Coffman is the recipient of the 2013 World Agriculture Prize.

Dr. Sarah Davidson Evanega

Director at Alliance for Science

Sarah Davidson Evanega serves as International Professor of Plant Breeding (adjunct) and Senior Associate Director of International Programs of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Cornell University. She is the Sr. Associate Director of the Durable Rust Resistance in Wheat Project a 66 million dollar project funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the UK Department for International Development that is based in International Programs (IP-CALS) at Cornell University, but involves project partners from over 20 institutions around the world, all working together to protect the world’s wheat from stem rust. Sarah also leads IP-CALS gender working group, AWARE (Advancing Women in Agriculture through Research and Education.

Dr. Karim Maredia

Professor at Michigan State University (MSU)

Dr. Karim Maredia is a Professor and Senior Associate to the Dean in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University (MSU). He serves as the Director of the World Technology Access (WorldTAP) Program. Dr. Maredia has worked in numerous international development projects funded by the USAID, USDA, UN-FAO, the World Bank, Rockefeller Foundation, Winrock International, and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Prior to joining MSU in 1989, Dr. Maredia worked with the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) in Mexico as a Research Scientist for three years. For his contributions to International Human Resources Development, Dr. Maredia was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree (Doctor Honoris Causa) by the University of Ricardo Palma in Lima, Peru in May 2009. In March 2010, Dr. Maredia received the prestigious Ralph Smuckler Award for Advancing International Studies and Programs at Michigan State University. Since 2017, Dr. Maredia has been serving as a Member of the African Union (AU) High Level Panel on Emerging Technologies. In December 2018, this panel received the Science Diplomacy Award at the Science Forum in South Africa.

Michelle Adelman

Founder & Managing Director at Accite Holdings

Michelle Adelman is a seasoned strategist, recognized business leader, and fierce advocate for mission-driven investing. She is the founder of Accite, a boutique firm focused on building sustainable food and agriculture technology businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa and growth markets that spur economic diversification and employment of youth and women, enabling the continent to be more food-secure. In 2017, Ms. Adelman was named by CEO Global as Africa’s Most Influential Woman – Business & Professional Services and in 2019, Ms. Adelman was named to the Forbes Africa “20 New Wealth Creators” list. Ms. Adelman is a speaker and consultant on agricultural transformation in emerging markets and serves on the advisory board to Cornell University’s Dean of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Ms. Adelman serves on the Boards of Directors Sir Ketumile Masire Foundation and the Impact Fund. She graduated from Cornell University with a degree in Agricultural & Environmental Engineering.

Brantley Browning

Senior Program Officer at Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation

Browning is a member of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, where he serves as a Senior Program Officer. A former international social programs manager at Starbucks Coffee Co., he was responsible for integrating social development into coffee, tea, and cocoa procurement practices. He received an M.A. in public policy from Harvard University`s Kennedy School of Government.

Dr. Mahaletchumy Arujanan

Executive Director at Malaysian Biotechnology Information Center (MABIC)

Mahaletchumy Arujanan works as the Executive Director at Malaysian Biotechnology Information Center (MABIC). She was listed as the 100 most influential person in biotechnology in the world by Scientific American WorldView in 2015. She was also listed as Women in Biotechnology Law and Regulation in 2015 by Biotechnology Law Report. In addition, she is a recipient of 2010 TWAS Regional Prize for Public Understanding of Science for East, Southeast Asia and Pacific Region. She sits on various panels and committees at both the national and international level; and is a regular speaker at biotechnology events.

DR. ANTHONY SHELTON

Professor at Cornell University

Anthony Shelton is an applied insect ecologist Professor at Cornell University who works on developing knowledge for national and international insect pest management programs. He works with public and private sectors but more closely with regulatory agencies and public policy issues in agriculture. Since 2015, he has been the Director of a USAID-funded project for insect-resistant eggplant in Bangladesh and the Philippines. He was recognized with many prestigious awards such as IPM Team Award (2013) Entomological Society of America, L. O. Howard Award (2011) Eastern Branch Entomological Society of America, Outstanding New Extension Publication (2011) NYS Assoc. of Ag Agents, Plenary Speaker (2011) Entomological Society of Canada.

Dr. Jiban Krishna Biswas

Executive Director at Krishi Gobeshona Foundation

Dr. Jiban Krishna Biswas is working with Krishi Gobeshona Foundation (KGF) as Executive Director. Before working in KGF, he worked as a national Consultant with International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). He has over 31 years of experience in many dignified positions of Bangladesh government service. Recently, he has retired from government service as Director General, Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI). He has played as Focal point in Preparation of Pilot Program for Climate Resilience (PPCR), Lead researcher in Livelihood Adaptation to Climate Change (Focal Point-BRRI component: FAO-project), Investigator (BRRI-component): Impact Assessment of Climate Change on Production and Market of Agriculture Products: A joint Research between JIRCAS and BRRI, Investigator in Cereal System Initiative for South Asia: Objective 3 (High temperature and Cold), Collaborating researcher: with Rainfed Lowland Rice Research Consortium (IRRIBRRI project) Collaborating researcher in Upland Rice Research Consortium (IRRI-BRRI project) and Collaborating researcher in Use of Azolla as nitrogenous fertilizer. He has done many researches and publications on plants, rice, soil and biodiversity

Dr. Vijay Paranjape

Vice President, Life Science Advisory at Sathguru Management Consultants

Dr. Vijay Paranjape is an experienced Seed Industry professional with over 25 years of techno-commercial-regulatory experience in diverse areas of Agricultural Biotechnology. Provided leadership as well as contributed towards different phases of plant biotech product development pipeline starting from gene discovery to product development, intellectual property protection, PPV&FR, stewardship/regulatory compliance governing product approval, and product stewardship (ETS) to enable the delivery of high quality of seeds to farmers. Over 17 years of experience in Monsanto (now Bayer) – a leading agriculture Biotech company. Vijay has a Ph. D in molecular biology from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, and post-doctoral research experience in plant molecular biology from Imperial College, London, UK, and Washington State University, Pullman, USA. He is Visiting Fellow, International Programs, Cornell University, USA

Vijay K Ragavan

Chairman at Sathguru Management Consultants

Vijay K Ragavan is the chairman of Sathguru Management Consultants firm established to integrate proficiencies in science and management to help create and nurture innovative enterprises, by adopting next generation technologies. He is a Chartered Accountant and a certified Management Consultant. He has helped structure governance and leadership models for global consortiums, corporate enterprises and non-profit organizations. For over two decades, he has led several collaborative partnerships in research, technology transfer and regional capacity building with Cornell University for the Asian region. He is a member of the International Advisory Committee of AUTM and Honorary President of the Society for Technology Management (STEM), the Indian association of technology management professionals. He is also a fellow member of Institute of Management Consultants of India and he is on the advisory board of Cornell Center for Hospitality Research.

Abraham Manalo

Executive Secretary at Biotechnology Coalition of the Philippines (BCP), Inc

Abraham Manalo, DPA is a Policy and Planning Specialist. He obtained his doctorate degree in public administration from UP Diliman, where he also took his Master in statistics and in the public administration major public policy. He is currently a Professorial Lecturer at the same university where he handles undergraduate and graduates courses on research methods and public policy. He is currently Executive Secretary of the Biotechnology Coalition of the Philippines (BCP), Inc.

Ali Hossain

Chairman

Mehenaz Rahman

Director