Photo: Messenger
The shoemaking industry in Bangladesh is experiencing a gradual but significant surge, particularly in regions like Bogura district, where young entrepreneurs are embracing the craft with fervor. Among them is Rabiul Islam, a self-reliant entrepreneur hailing from the quaint village of Purbapara in Ramnagar, Dhunat upazila of Bogura.
Rabiul's journey into shoemaking began with acquiring skills from a factory in Dhaka. Armed with determination and a modest initial investment of 1 lakh taka, in 2023, he embarked on his entrepreneurial endeavor, establishing his shoe factory at his village home, aptly named Zamindar Suj. Despite facing initial challenges, Rabiul's dedication and hard work paid off.
With two of his three sons pursuing college education in Savar, Rabiul finds solace in the fact that one of them actively assists him in both his studies and the family business. Together with a team of seven employees, comprising both men and women earning a monthly wage, Rabiul's factory churns out a diverse range of shoes and sandals.
Reflecting on his journey, Rabiul shares his pride in having earned around 5 lakh taka since starting the business, all without additional capital. He credits the collaborative effort of his family members in conceptualizing and crafting various shoe designs. Moreover, he expresses gratitude for the encouragement received from the local community.
Looking to the future, Rabiul remains optimistic about the potential for further success. He believes that integrating modern equipment into his factory could propel his business to greater heights. Additionally, he notes the rising demand for shoes and sandals, driven largely by evolving fashion trends. Rabiul envisions a promising trajectory for his venture, fueled by innovation and a steadfast commitment to quality.
As the shoemaking industry continues to thrive in Bangladesh, entrepreneurs like Rabiul Islam serve as inspiring examples of resilience, ingenuity, and the transformative power of small-scale enterprises in driving economic growth and empowerment at the grassroots level.
Messenger/Fardin
