Bangladesh has achieved a historic milestone in women's strength sports as Nisu Fatama Akter, popularly known in the domestic circuit as Fatema Nishu, became the first Bangladeshi female powerlifter to win a medal at the Asian Powerlifting Championship.
Officially selected by the Bangladesh Powerlifting Association (BPA) to represent the country, Nisu Fatama Akter won the Silver Medal in the highly competitive 84+ kg Open category at the Asian Women’s Classic Powerlifting Championship, held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
She secured this historic achievement with an impressive 377.5 kg total lift, comprising a 147.5 kg squat, 70 kg bench press, and 160 kg deadlift.
A Landmark Achievement
The championship brought together approximately 500 elite athletes from 29 Asian countries, making it one of the continent's most prestigious powerlifting competitions. Standing on the podium among such a strong field of competitors marks one of the most significant international achievements by a Bangladeshi female athlete.
Powerlifting is still an emerging sport in Bangladesh, particularly for women. By earning a place on the Asian Championship podium, Nisu Fatama Akter has broken new ground, paving the way for future generations of female athletes and demonstrating that Bangladeshi women can compete successfully at the highest levels of international strength sports.
Consistent National Success
This international accomplishment is the result of years of disciplined training and consistent performances at the national level. Competing domestically under the name Fatema Nishu, she has established herself as one of Bangladesh's leading powerlifters.
Her major national achievements include:
- 2021 National Powerlifting Championship: Won the Silver Medal in the women's 63+ kg category.
- Bangladesh Powerlifting Championship 2023 (held in February 2024): Won the Gold Medal and was crowned National Champion in the 69+ kg Open category with a 345.0 kg total lift.
In recognition of her outstanding performances, the Bangladesh Powerlifting Association honored her with the prestigious "Outstanding International Achievement – Women (2018–2023)" Award, further establishing her as one of the country's premier powerlifters.
Looking Ahead
Nisu Fatama Akter is now preparing for upcoming international competitions with the ultimate goal of representing Bangladesh at the World Powerlifting Championships.
"In Sha Allah, I hope to earn a place among the world's best powerlifters, bring greater international recognition to Bangladesh, and inspire more women to take up this sport," she said.
Her historic achievement not only represents a personal triumph but also highlights the growing potential of Bangladeshi athletes in strength sports. As the country's first female Asian Championship medalist in powerlifting, Nisu Fatama Akter has set a new benchmark for future generations and inspired countless young women to pursue excellence on the international stage.