Mother’s Market: Where products meet stories of struggle and success

The elegant ballroom of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan today (10 May) transformed into a vibrant marketplace adorned with stories of struggle and success – each stall a testament to the evolving identity of motherhood.

Among the crowd was college student Alfi, carefully arranging handcrafted churi and decorative tips. Beside her stood her mother, Mahfuza Afrin, a private-sector employee who, beyond her day job, prepares homemade naru, pickles, and amshotto. Together, they run an online business through their Facebook page, Alfi Achar Ghor. While they have long sold products online, this marked their first-ever offline exhibition.

Their journey reflects the spirit of "The Motherhood Movement", a special initiative organised jointly by Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan and Brac Bank TARA to celebrate Mother's Day. At its heart was the "Mother's Market," where women like Mahfuza stepped forward as entrepreneurs.

Ritesha Chakma, founder of Box of Ornaments, the journey began in 2017 with a simple idea – fusing traditional ornament designs with contemporary styles.

"When I started, funding was a major barrier," she told The Business Standard. "I was still a student, and many questioned why I chose business over a job. Within the Chakma community, I was among the first to venture into ornaments. I blended cultural elements to create new fusion designs, targeting students with budget-friendly products, while also offering premium pieces."

Today, her creations have crossed borders, reaching customers as far as China. Behind this success, however, lies a daily balancing act – Ritesha is also a mother to an eight-year-old son, managing both her business and family single-handedly.

A similar story of resilience belongs to Kaniz Dalia, a former schoolteacher who turned to entrepreneurship during the Covid-19 pandemic. Through her Facebook page Nilambori'r Kabya, she has been selling pickles, organic spices, oils, honey, and butter for the past five years.

"I started online during Covid, and there is strong demand for organic products," she said. "My business is doing well, but after my husband passed away last year, I now carry the full responsibility of my child's education and all household expenses."

Mahfuza, Ritesha, and Kaniz were among 30 mother entrepreneurs showcasing a diverse collection of handcrafted products, fashion, artisanal foods, handmade jewelry, home décor, candles, and preserves.

Branded as Dhaka's first-ever Mother's Market, the event was built around the theme "Celebrating Passion, Power and Possibility." It highlighted how modern mothers are redefining roles – emerging as leaders, innovators, and changemakers while balancing family, career, and entrepreneurship.

The celebration went beyond commerce. A panel discussion titled "Balancing Business and Motherhood" brought together industry leaders including Taslima Jaigirder, Barrister Miti Sanjana, Anamika Bhakta, and Tapati Bose. Moderated by Jannatul Ferdous, the session offered insights into leadership, resilience, and the realities of juggling business ambitions with motherhood.

The event concluded with the "Inspiring Mothers Awards," recognising women whose dedication and leadership continue to influence society. Honorees included Farzana Shaikh Shumi, Farzana Rahman Benu, Sayma Shawkat, and Anjumanara Shila, alongside a standout entrepreneur from the Mother's Market.

Speaking about the initiative, Karthi VK, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, and Mehruba Reza emphasised the importance of creating platforms that empower women and foster entrepreneurship.

"The Motherhood Movement" also aligns with IHG Hotels and Resorts and its "Journey to Tomorrow" commitment to building inclusive communities and inspiring positive change.

As the event drew to a close, it left behind more than memories – it marked the beginning of a new platform in Dhaka, one that celebrates mothers not only for their nurturing roles, but also for their ambition, creativity, leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit.