W.O.W Market launched in Dhaka to empower women entrepreneurs

Dhaka organised the first-ever W.O.W Market (Women of Worth and Wonder) on Saturday, an initiative to celebrate and empower women entrepreneurs.

The day-long fair was hosted by Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan in collaboration with ActionAid, Shakti Foundation and 23 women-led enterprises.

The event featured 23 stalls offering handmade jewellery, handwoven apparel, bags, wall décor, clay toys, coconut husk and cane crafts, miniature rickshaws and post boxes. Food items such as homemade pickles, ghee and traditional delicacies were also on display, drawing visitors from across Dhaka and abroad.

For participants, the market was an opportunity to showcase their stories as well as their products.

Ruma Akter, who travelled from Barisal with jute and coconut husk crafts, said, "This is my first time at a fair like this. The encouragement from buyers has been heartwarming, and it motivates me to dream bigger."

Dalim Akter of ActionAid highlighted the work of Rohingya women artisans, saying, "The interest in their handmade pieces proves that these women, too, belong in the broader narrative of empowerment."

Naznin Akter Mukta of Uttaron Boutique added, "When women are given space beyond their homes, they flourish — and so does the economy."

Visitors also welcomed the initiative. Shopper Rahima Afroz from Mirpur said, "Everything from children's toys to elegant clothing is here. It's wonderful to see women leading with such talent."

Shaheen Anam, executive director of Manusher Jonno Foundation, commented, "The creativity and quality on display are remarkable. Platforms like WOW Market are essential to uplift and empower women."

Salah Uddin, sales director of Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, said, "All stalls were provided free of cost, and every sale went directly to the entrepreneurs."

The initiative was held as part of IHG Hotels & Resorts' Giving for Good Month and, according to organisers, marks the beginning of a larger effort to support livelihoods, nurture local talent and foster social impact.