How did you become a tech entrepreneur? Can you tell us something about yourself?
I did my undergrad in Electrical Engineering so that I could understand the technical world, and my master's in Software Engineering concentrating on Digital Communications and Multimedia, which gave me the knowledge to build and develop software. I graduated summa cum laude during my masters and started my market research then.
After two years, I wanted my own identity so launched ConfigVR, my first company in Silicon Valley with my own savings.
After establishing ConfigVR for three years I recently launched my second company ConfigRbot with four robots, two Internet of things (IoT) devices and three software solutions. Now I am looking for grants to promote, market, and build this company as I have big plans with it.
I have also been honoured as one of the 50 most inspiring Bangladeshi women in Business America magazine.
How are you doing in Silicon Valley?
My experience so far has been scholastic and insightful. I love to dream big and it is my adventurous nature, which gave me the courage to start these companies alone. I did everything by myself and in the process, I think I have trained myself in various fields like management, marketing, project management, product management, employee management, client handling, pitching, accounts, building websites, networking, etc.
What are ConfigVR and ConfigRbot’s missions?
ConfigVR's mission is to virtualize your vision whereas ConfigRbot’s mission is to build and automate the future. With the current pandemic situation as mostly everything is shifting online, I see huge scope for the different services we provide. We have built a chatbot specifically for Covid-19 for the healthcare industry.
Our most impressive robot is the cutting edge AGV (Automated Guided Vehicle). AGVs have numerous applications varying from warehouse robots to hospitality.
ConfigRbot's AGV can be ordered with a UVC sterilization kit, which is used in large public spaces such as airports, hospitals, offices, malls, schools, etc, to fight against Covid-19.
The robotic arm can automate many jobs.
Our IoT device can track attendance, item-level inventory, tolls and can also be used for supply chain visibility, materials management, and interactive marketing.
When can you start manufacturing robots in Bangladesh?
In the next five years, I aim to see robots being manufactured in Bangladesh.
Industry 4.0 demands skilled tech labour to develop and maintain automated factories. Training the youth can show that we have untapped potential and high-tech manufacturing will naturally flow in. I want to see Bangladesh foster more tech firms providing custom factory automation design and integrate solutions to anyone in the world.
Do we have enough manpower and infrastructure to make it a success?
Given the vast population, we definitely have the manpower but we need to train them. We need to educate the ecosystem and build the infrastructure to support the 4.0 industry demands and to keep up with the world. I believe the right training and guidance can create an army of talent that can power these industries.
What should the government offer in the budget to create more skilled manpower?
I think subsidized training programs from the government can help train more people in specific fields. When someone needs a job, but cannot find one or do not have skills or experience, a government-subsidized job that trains as they go might help.
The program will help businesses afford to hire and train employees, help employees obtain work, and will help the government as more people become self-sufficient by gaining job experience and by becoming employable.
How will we financially benefit after producing robots?
Automation can be beneficial in most industries as it lowers operating cost. Robots can perform the work of three to five people, depending on the task, not to mention improved worker safety and reduced factory lead times.
What else are you interested in doing besides being a tech entrepreneur?
I am a world traveler. I love the Bengali culture. I am a classical dancer and used to play piano, Tanpura, and harmonium. I am also head of production at a media company and plan to promote Bengali content on global platforms. I am also actively working with different NGO's and the government to build training programs for rural areas, underprivileged and handicapped youth.
What strategies do you think are needed for the youth to embrace technology?
I think the youth today are quite tech-savvy. With the internet, everyone is learning something new every day. Smartphones, YouTube, Facebook, etc are leading the world to where we want to see it.