BRAC has announced the start of a new application cycle for its BRIDGE Returnship Programme, an initiative supporting women who are looking to return to professional life after a career break. Through structured opportunities and targeted support, the programme seeks to ease the transition back into the workforce and promote women’s sustained participation in formal employment.
Women often step away from their careers due to various personal, family, or social responsibilities. When they attempt to return, they frequently encounter structural barriers, skill gaps, and a lack of confidence or professional networks. The BRIDGE Returnship Programme has been designed to respond to these challenges by offering structured, hands-on opportunities that help participants rebuild their skills, confidence, and professional identity.
Through this six-month programme, participants will receive practical, on-the-job learning, professional mentoring, and career development support. They will be engaged in different BRAC programmes, contributing to project management, research, and other key areas, while gaining relevant work experience and exposure to organisational processes.
The BRIDGE Returnship Programme was launched last year, with 15 participants selected from nearly 1,100 applicants. Following the completion of the programme, four participants have already secured full-time positions within BRAC and other organisations.
Additionally, 100 more shortlisted candidates were given the opportunity to take part in a boot camp, where they received training alongside networking opportunities, support in mapping out future plans, and guidance on re-entering the workplace.
Many participants in the previous cohort cited maternity, caregiving responsibilities, social expectations, and challenging work environments as the primary reasons for their career breaks. Their motivation to rejoin the workforce stemmed from aspirations for professional growth, financial independence, renewed confidence, and the desire to contribute meaningfully to their families and society.
Commenting on the initiative, Moutushi Kabir, Senior Director, People, Culture and Communications at BRAC, said, "Taking a break from a career does not mean a lack of talent or ability. The 'Bridge Returnship' initiative is designed for women who wish to re-enter the professional world and rediscover their full potential. It is not just an opportunity to return to work—it is a bridge to strengthen their social and professional identity. We hope that this opportunity becomes naturally accepted across all organisations in Bangladesh, so that women face no barriers when returning to their careers after a break."
The programme also facilitates networking opportunities by connecting participants with professionals across NGOs, private sector organisations, and leading corporate institutions, enabling them to explore suitable career pathways aligned with their skills and experience.
Women interested in applying must have at least three years of professional experience in a recognised organisation and hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Applicants should have taken a career break of at least one year.
Applications for the BRIDGE Returnship Programme are now open and must be submitted by 21 January 2026. For more information, please visit: https://brac.net/bridge-returnship
