I am an Australian mother of two married to a Bangladeshi. I have had the pleasure of visiting Bangladesh two times in 2001 and 2004. I eagerly await my next trip there.

For so long, Bangladesh has only been referred to or known to the western world as one of the world's poorest countries beset with natural disasters and economic and social problems, to list a few.

I feel that change is coming if it hasn't already, amongst the perceptions and attitudes of foreigners towards Bangladesh and all things Bangladeshi. I refer to Bangladesh as the hidden diamond of Asia because once the western world discovers the untapped tourism and economic potential in Bangladesh, the country will become the 'Dubai or Malaysia' of the future. Bangladesh has an incredibly rich culture, history and physical and social environment that can be developed to move the country forward like its Asian counterparts, for example, India, China, Thailand and Malaysia. Many people would laugh at this idea but all it takes is the use of education to change the mindset and beliefs of the Bangladeshis themselves (in Bangladesh and overseas) to believe in the potential of their country and to propel it forward to reveal its true glory.

As India is one of the world's fastest growing economies, countries like Bangladesh will naturally take a spot on the world stage in the next 10 to 15 years. I urge all Bangladeshis to look at the economic and recent educational statistics to see that Bangladesh is truly on its way to showing its real worth in the international arena.

I would like to acknowledge and applaud many of the ex-pat Bangladeshis abroad who are making big names for themselves in all fields of discipline such as education and business. Regardless of their career or monetary status, they are known to be the hardest workers. I make special mention of my role model Tommy Miah, who has put Bangladesh on the world map for his cooking and business endeavours in the United Kingdom. There are so many other Bangladeshis that I would like to mention.

Though I understand that the majority of Bangladeshi students aspire to move overseas, I urge them to think of the great potential of their own country.

As a foreigner living in Australia, the Bangladeshi people in general inspire me as people who work hard for their dreams, take pride in their strong family values and religious and cultural heritage. The western world could learn much from your people and way of life.