Rafiath Rashid Mithila, widely known for her work in acting as well as international development, has begun a new chapter in her professional career, joining Columbia University as a researcher while also taking up a teaching role in New York.
After around two decades of professional involvement with international development organisation BRAC, Mithila has joined Columbia University in the United States as an Associate Research Scientist at the Irving Institute for Clinical and Translational Research. Alongside her research responsibilities, she has also started teaching at the City University of New York (CUNY).
Mithila recently shared the news with her followers and well-wishers through a Facebook post. She said her new role at Columbia will involve leading the design and evaluation of the New York-based Early Childhood and Family Hub project.
The initiative focuses on early childhood development, family engagement and public health. One of its key objectives is to connect families with children from birth to the age of five with the opportunities, services and supportive environments needed to promote healthy development during the crucial early years of life.
Mithila hopes to draw on her extensive experience in international development to bridge the gap between academic research and the practical needs of communities. Her responsibilities will also involve using data and research-based evidence to inform the development and implementation of the project.
The new appointment represents a significant extension of a professional journey that has combined development work, research and public engagement. Mithila has spent much of her career working in the development sector, where she gained experience in programmes and initiatives connected with communities and social development.
Alongside her research work, Mithila has entered the academic field as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the City University of New York. She is teaching Non-profit Management, a subject closely connected to her professional experience in the development sector.
The teaching role will allow her to bring practical knowledge of working with development and non-profit organisations into the classroom. Her experience over the years provides a professional perspective on how such organisations operate, manage programmes and respond to social needs.
Mithila has also expressed gratitude for the role BRAC has played in shaping her professional career. She noted that she spent around two decades with the organisation, including 15 years with BRAC International. Her long association with international development has been an important part of her professional identity beyond her career in the entertainment industry.
Speaking about her new responsibilities, Mithila expressed enthusiasm about working in Columbia University’s research environment and collaborating with researchers. She hopes the experience will enable her to apply her international development knowledge in a broader setting while contributing to research and projects with practical relevance to communities.
For Mithila, the move also marks a shift towards greater emphasis on research, teaching and knowledge-based work. Although she has established herself as a familiar face in the entertainment industry, her career has long extended beyond acting. Her work in development has given her a distinct professional identity, and the latest appointments further strengthen that side of her career.
With her new roles in research and teaching, Mithila now plans to devote more attention to academic work, evidence-based development and social impact. She has also sought prayers and good wishes from her supporters as she begins this new phase of her professional life.
