Women entrepreneurs at DITF

The 23rd edition of Dhaka International Trade Fair (DITF) has seen the participation by a good number of women. Joyeeta Foundation, an initiative to support women venture and financially empower women, has set up a large pavilion where female entrepreneurs are selling their products including dress, boutiques, handicrafts, pickles, sweets, among other Women entrepreneurs have also set up stalls elsewhere in the fair. Maintaining the staff and serving customers in a large crowded fair is no small task. Women entrepreneurs are gradually making a place for themselves in a community traditionally dominated by men. Farhana Nazira, a fashion designer and also the proprietor of Farhana Fashion, started her boutiques business with Tk17,000. She initially had very little support from her family but managed to make a good profit within a short period. Although this is her first time in DITF, she has previously participated in different fairs within and outside Dhaka. “The DITF has given me the opportunity to reach out to a large number of customers within shortest possible time,” Farhana said. Like Farhana, Hasina Mukta, the proprietor of Natunatta boutique and handicrafts, had faced hindrance from her conservative family. She too overcame the obstacles to become a successful entrepreneur. She is running her own boutique house in Dhaka and is managing her stall at DITF. Anjuman Nahar, an entrepreneur of Joyeeta Foundation, said: “New women entrepreneurs may face obstacles and financial constraints in setting up a stall at DITF. “In order to overcome these constraints, new entrepreneurs should take proper training before launching their business at a crowded fair.” Hasina said women entrepreneurs should listen to the suggestions of senior entrepreneurs and focus on the quality of the products before launching their stalls. Most female entrepreneurs are selling clothing products at DITF. Ishrat Kibria, the owner of the Kajol boutique, said the new entrepreneurs had plenty of product options available. “They should not go for boutiques and clothing products only, rather they can sell different quality products within available options,” she added. Ishrat said the new female entrepreneurs, who had experience in conducting businesses, should open stall at DITF. Lack of proper guidance and experience can result in a big loss.