Marking the occasion of International Women’s Day, Mon Janala hosted an event yesterday focused on empowering women through fostering confidence, self-respect, and self-care. The event, themed “With Courage and Support, Now Is the Time to Move Forward,” aimed to emphasize the significance of these values.
Catering primarily to women aged over 40, the program, titled “Give to Gain,” saw the active participation of over 150 women spanning various fields such as entrepreneurship, education, and community leadership. The event, held from 3 pm to 6 pm, aimed to inspire and uplift women in their personal and professional journeys.
Renowned actress Dolly Zahur graced the event, delivering an empowering message to the attendees. She shared, “I firmly believe in the power of resilience, and it is crucial that our women do too. Each of us has our unique path in this world, and it is imperative that we forge ahead—for ourselves, our children, our families, our communities, and our nation.”
Model and actress Sadia Islam Mou drew from her own experiences in the industry, highlighting the prevalence of competition among women. Reflecting on her challenges, she emphasized the value of actions over words, stating, “When faced with negativity, proving oneself through work often speaks louder than engaging in verbal battles.”
In addition to professional insights, Mou stressed the importance of self-care, asserting that self-worth is fundamental to garnering respect from others, irrespective of gender.
Jannatul Ferdous Oishee, an actress and holder of the Miss World Bangladesh title, attended the event alongside her mother. In her address, she acknowledged the hardships endured by women of past generations and encouraged the audience to overcome personal struggles and strive for progress.
Dr. Touhida Rahman Ereen, a wellness and beauty consultant, shed light on women’s health concerns, urging women above the age of 40 to foster a supportive community among themselves.
Mousumi Mou, the founder of Mon Janala, highlighted the significance of mental emancipation for women, linking it to achieving economic autonomy. She emphasized that mental freedom is a crucial stepping stone towards financial independence for women.
The event culminated with the presentation of the City Bank Mon Janala Alokito Nari Award 2026 to five outstanding women for their commendable contributions to women’s advancement. The recipients—Nabeghah Dordana, Zaheda Khanam, Badrunnesa Sarkar, Yasmin Shahadat, and Kaniz Fatema—were recognized for their dedication and impact in their respective fields.
The award ceremony, graced by Dolly Zahur, Sadia Islam Mou, Jannatul Ferdous Oishee, and Mon Janala co-founder Hasibul Karim, was made possible through the generous support of City Bank PLC and Ispahani Group.
