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On the occasion of International Women’s Day, the Dutch-Bangla Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DBCCI) has organised a special seminar and networking event titled “Orange Meets Green: DBCCI Women’s Business Meet 2026 – Give to Gain.”
The programme was held in a hybrid format at Aloki Convention Hall, located at Tejgaon-Gulshan Link Road in the capital.The central theme of the event was “Orange Meets Green,” symbolizing the convergence of the Netherlands’ iconic colour Orange and the promising Green potential of Bangladesh. DBCCI believes that the active participation of women entrepreneurs is vital for strengthening trade and investment cooperation between Bangladesh and the Netherlands, said a press release.
Through this platform, women entrepreneurs, business leaders, and professionals from both countries had the opportunity to exchange knowledge, expand networks, and explore future partnership opportunities.
The DBCCI stated that such initiatives would contribute to building an inclusive and sustainable business environment by promoting women’s leadership, entrepreneurship development, mental well-being, and international collaboration.
The event began with a registration and networking session, allowing participants to interact and exchange ideas. This was followed by a brief session highlighting the significance of International Women’s Day and an introduction of the participants.
In his keynote speech titled “Women in Trade & DBCCI Vision,” Md. Shakawat Hossain Mamun, President of DBCCI and Vice Chairman of the Viyellatex Group, highlighted the growing role of women in trade and entrepreneurship and outlined DBCCI’s future plans to strengthen Bangladesh–Netherlands trade cooperation.
The Chief Guest, Rahima Begum, Additional Secretary of the Finance Division, delivered an address emphasizing the significant contribution of women entrepreneurs to Bangladesh’s economic development and the various initiatives undertaken by the government to support women-led enterprises.
Joining virtually, Hasan Abdullah Towhid, Chargé d’Affaires of the Bangladesh Embassy in The Hague, spoke on strengthening partnerships with the Netherlands.
From the Netherlands, Sandra Brandenburg, Co-founder of Handelsroute.nl, Tribe of Noise, New Media Squad, and BBNL, Amsterdam, joined virtually and shared insights on innovation and cross-border collaboration.
The Welcome Address was delivered by Meherun N. Islam, Vice President of DBCCI and President & Group Managing Director of CEMS Global Ltd. In her speech, she emphasized the importance of empowering women entrepreneurs and increasing women’s participation in international trade.
A session on mental health and professional well-being was presented by Professor Zobeda Khatun, former Chairman of the Department of Clinical Psychology at the University of Dhaka. Additionally, Rehana Akter Ruma, Counsellor at Quantum Foundation and Advisor & Consultant for international development organizations, spoke about stress management and pathways to well-being in the workplace.
Another important session featured Vidya Amrit Khan, Vice President of BGMEA and Deputy Managing Director of Desh Garments Ltd., who spoke on “Women Driving Inclusive Economic Growth,” highlighting the role of women in fostering inclusive economic development.
A special segment of the program honoured three inspiring women entrepreneurs who have set positive examples in society through their creativity, perseverance, and entrepreneurial initiatives: Moriam Nargis Eka, Proprietor, Twinkle Crafts; Sarmin Aktar, Proprietor, Soya Food Plus and Mahlayine Rakhine, Proprietor, FALONG ZEE.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Kyaw Sein Thay (Dolly), Chairperson of the DBCCI Women Committee and Managing Director of Cloths R Us Ltd. The event ended with the celebration of International Women’s Day, followed by a dua, Iftar gathering, and dinner.
Members of the DBCCI Board of Directors, former Presidents of DBCCI, chamber members, representatives from various chambers and business associations, distinguished guests, and members of the print and electronic media were present at the event.
https://thedailyexpress.news/news/business/1f11b862-4a7f-6270-985e-f9d835f2c969