A Reflection of History, Present & Future “The Garment Industry Roars with Women in Leadership” An Analytical Report on BGMEA Election 2025–27
In Bangladesh’s readymade garments (RMG) sector, women’s contribution is no longer limited to the factory floor—it is now rising boldly into leadership. In the upcoming BGMEA 2025–2027 election, seven women entrepreneurs are running for director positions, marking a powerful milestone in the industry’s leadership landscape.
Among the seven candidates, five are from the ‘Forum’ panel and two from the ‘Sammilito Parishad’ panel.
Out of 1,865 total eligible voters, there are 120 female voters—110 from Dhaka and 10 from Chattogram.
Historical Legacy
Women in leadership within the garment sector isn’t new.
Back in 1977, Fatema Begum joined Reaz Garments in Old Dhaka as the first woman working closely with the entrepreneur.
Later, Nazma Chowdhury, trained at Desh Garments, became the first female quality controller.
In 2019, Dr. Rubana Huq made history by becoming the first female president of BGMEA.
The Present Reality & Challenges
Today, over 18,000 women serve in mid-level management in the RMG sector.
However, women are still underrepresented at the top.
Female entrepreneurs often face institutional and social obstacles in rising to leadership positions.
The 7 Courageous Women Contesting This Year:
- Famida Akter – Masco Industries Ltd. (Forum)
- Mrs. Sumaiya Islam – Jamuna Denim Ltd. (Forum)
- Rumana Rashid – Rumana Fashion Ltd. (Forum)
- Samia Azim – Signet Apparels Ltd. (Forum)
- Vidiya Amrit Khan – Desh Garments Ltd. (Forum)
- Tamanna Faruq Thima – BG Collection Ltd. (Sammilito Parishad)
- Lithi Muntaha Mahiuddin – Lithi Apparels Ltd. (Sammilito Parishad)
Opinions
Aleya Akter, Former CHRO, Desh Group & Ha-Meem Group(women management RMG )
“The RMG sector is driven by the labor of women, yet leadership remains male-dominated. Those who dared to step forward have proven successful. With proper support, more women can rise to the top. This election is a vital opportunity to strengthen women’s leadership.”
Maksuda Chowdhury Misa,( women entrepreneur RMG )
Managing Director, Stylish Garments Ltd. (AC Industries Group):
“Family support plays a crucial role, and I was fortunate to have that. Those who will lead in the future must take greater responsibility—to ensure a safe and fair working environment for female entrepreneurs and professionals. Fair evaluation of female workers and employees must be our top priority. We expect our leaders to take strong positions both nationally and internationally, guiding this industry with integrity and clear vision.”
Sarmin Sultana Lima,(textile Student)
11th Batch, Barisal Textile Engineering College:
“Even in this digital era, women’s leadership is undervalued. But we are proving through skill and dedication that ability—not gender—is the true strength.”
Our Expectations
These 7 women are more than election candidates—they are trailblazers. We hope they become:
- Symbols of courage
- Role models for the next generation
- Architects of an inclusive, knowledge-driven leadership in the apparel industry
On this Mother’s Day, we pay our deepest respect to all the women in the garment sector—whether they are workers, supervisors, executives, or entrepreneurs.
Their labor, love, and strength are the foundation of our industry’s past, present, and future.
Author: Md. Salauddin
Director, Reaz Garments Ltd.
Head of Operations, Bunon & TGMG Vlog
Contributor to knowledge-sharing platforms for textile students and entrepreneurs
