International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global holiday celebrated annually on March 8 to commemorate the cultural, political, and socioeconomic achievements of women. It is also a focal point in the women’s rights movement, bringing attention to issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and violence and abuse against women. In Bangladesh women are contributing a lot in the highest remittance earning sector- Textile Industry. Textile Focus talked with one of the successful women leader and entrepreneur on the occasion of International Women’s Day. Key feedback are covered for our readers –
Neela Hosna Ara, Chairman of Crony Group and Director, BGMEA
I have worked in the RMG industry for more than 28 years. As a female entrepreneur, I have faced a number of challenges however I believe being a woman is my biggest strength.
Our apparel industry so many women are working and come from different zones . As aRMG sector country’s mother earning source, women are contributing ,but you see other sectors still mid and top level position women participation low.
I have joined the BGMEA with the aim to use my unique perspective to represent women’s issues and influence the growth of female entrepreneurs. My idol is and has always been Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
Her patience, diligence and grace in guiding our country to where it is today is inspirational. Our economic and social development under her time as Prime Minister is the reason, I was able to grow my business today.
As Director of BGMEA, I am using my experience and position to empower women inside and outside the industry by raising awareness of various important issues. One of my goals is to empower women in mid and higher management. It is essential that we create a healthy and safe work environment for them. “For the last 10 years, I have put my heart and soul to ensure the participation of more women supervisors and managers,”
Today, all the departments in Crony Group — from HR to planning to others — have a significant number of women employees. Besides, we are doing job fairs to ensure gender equality..
For skills enhancement of RMG workers, we have piloted a life-skills training course that teaches negotiation, communication and supervisory skills to the workers, and helps build their confidence to pursue higher level positions as well as challenge workplace issues such as sexual harassment. We are building an ecosystem where women are empowered economically, mentally and socially.
