My name is Mariam Fatema, and I am an entrepreneur. My livelihood has grown from my skills in handicrafts, including embroidery, sewing, block printing, batik, and hand printing. I also run a beauty parlour where many women work alongside me.
I began my entrepreneurial journey in 2009. Gradually, I learned the craft and built a customer base. In 2013, due to family responsibilities, I had to pause my work for a while. Yet my desire to stand on my own feet never let me stop. After managing household responsibilities, I returned to my business with renewed determination.
It was during this period that I learned about a skills development training offered by BRAC, and I joined the programme. The training taught me how to run a business professionally, including employee management, workplace safety, and bookkeeping. Today, I maintain regular financial records, have clear operational rules, and ensure proper safety measures. This has brought structure and stability to my work.
Starting a business as a woman was not easy. I faced many obstacles within my family. Over time, however, I gained the support of my husband and in-laws, which has been a source of strength. Since my marriage in 2010, this family support has helped me move forward with confidence.
The financial progress has been significant. Once, I had no capital and paid only BDT 500 in shop rent. Today, I pay BDT 9,000 in rent and have deposited BDT 200,000 as collateral. My monthly income has grown from BDT 50–60 thousand to BDT 70–80 thousand.
In addition to my beauty parlour, I now work with natural hair oils, seasonal foods, and professional cake-making. Across all my ventures, I currently employ 20–25 people, most of whom are women.
Looking ahead, I aspire to establish a large handicraft enterprise that will provide sustainable employment for many more women.
