Latiful Azam, Kishorganj (Nilphamari)

Shahida Islam Tagor is a determined and hardworking woman entrepreneur who has overcome numerous challenges to achieve success.

In 2007, she started her journey with Showkhin Beauty Parlor, alongside her husband, Jahirul Islam, and their only child. As their family grew with the birth of another son, the business also evolved, leading to the establishment of Showkhin Glamour Zone & ST Fashion World in 2010, initially a small-scale venture.

The Inspiration Behind Becoming an Entrepreneur :

When asked about her motivation for becoming an entrepreneur, Tagor shared that she got married while studying at a polytechnic institute. After completing her diploma, she became a mother. However, balancing work with a four-month-old baby proved difficult, leading her to quit her job. Faced with financial difficulties, she began searching for alternative ways to support her family, which sparked her entrepreneurial dream.

One day, she met a garment worker who informed her about sequin work orders from garment factories. Recognizing an opportunity, Togor started her own initiative, employing 100 local women for this work. This experience ignited her passion for entrepreneurship even further. Determined to expand her skills, she traveled to Narayanganj for six months of training in beauty parlor services.

Prior to this, Tagor had already received training in soap making, candle making, dairy farming, and mini garment business management. She even helped her elder sister and brother-in-law set up their own business by teaching them what she had learned. Unfortunately, after her brother-in-law’s untimely demise, that business had to shut down.

The Struggles and Growth as an Entrepreneur

Speaking about her journey, Tagor recalled how financial constraints made it difficult to start her beauty parlor. With the help of a cousin, she secured a loan and opened a small salon. Managing her family, children, and business simultaneously required immense effort. However, within just ten months, she was able to expand the parlor, hiring six beauticians to work with her. Eventually, she also ventured into the boutique business.

Future Plans and Aspirations :

Discussing her current plans, Tagor revealed her vision of launching a Beautification Training Institute. Additionally, she is engaging university students in hand-painting Muslin sarees, aiming to scale up this initiative so that they gain entrepreneurial experience alongside their studies.

Another dream close to her heart is to empower rural women by involving them in Nakshi Kantha embroidery and exporting their work to international markets. Her ultimate goal is to help women achieve financial independence from home and showcase their craftsmanship on a global scale.

Shahida Islam Tagor’s journey is a shining example of resilience and determination, inspiring countless others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.