Dhaka came alive on Saturday with the launch of the first-ever W.O.W Market (Women of Worth and Wonder), a dynamic platform created to celebrate and empower women entrepreneurs. Organized by Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, in collaboration with ActionAid, Shakti Foundation, and 23 women-led enterprises, the day-long fair transformed into a vibrant celebration of creativity, resilience, and opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From the moment guests entered, the atmosphere buzzed with energy. Twenty-three stalls displayed an extraordinary mix of handmade treasures – from delicate jewelry, handwoven apparel, colorful bags, wall d\u00e9cor, clay toys, coconut husk and cane crafts to miniature rickshaws and post boxes. The inviting aromas of homemade pickles, ghee, and traditional delicacies added a flavorful touch, drawing visitors from across Dhaka and even beyond Bangladesh\u2019s borders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For many entrepreneurs, W.O.W Market was more than just a marketplace – it was a platform to share their journeys:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis is my first time at a fair like this. The encouragement from buyers has been heartwarming, and it motivates me to dream bigger,\u201d said Ruma Akter, who traveled from Barisal with her collection of jute and coconut husk crafts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dalim Akter of ActionAid highlighted products crafted by Rohingya women artisans: \u201cThe interest in their handmade pieces proves that these women, too, belong in the broader narrative of empowerment.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For Naznin Akter Mukta of Uttaron Boutique, the fair symbolized progress: \u201cWhen women are given space beyond their homes, they flourish \u2014 and so does the economy.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Visitors echoed similar sentiments. Shopper Rahima Afroz from Mirpur shared, \u201cEverything from children\u2019s toys to elegant clothing is here. It\u2019s wonderful to see women leading with such talent.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Leaders and advocates also praised the initiative. Shaheen Anam, Executive Director of Manusher Jonno Foundation (MJF), remarked: \u201cThe creativity and quality on display are remarkable. Platforms like WOW Market are essential to uplift and empower women.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan, this milestone marks the beginning of a larger journey. \u201cAll stalls were provided free of cost, and every sale went directly to the entrepreneurs,\u201d said MD Salah Uddin, Sales Director, Crowne Plaza Dhaka Gulshan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At its core, WOW Market was far more than a shopping event \u2014 it was a living testament to the power of opportunity. When women are given the space to shine, they create pathways not only for themselves but also for their communities and the nation at large.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Aligned with IHG Hotels & Resorts\u2019 Giving for Good Month, this initiative reinforces Crowne Plaza\u2019s commitment to supporting livelihoods, nurturing local talent, and fostering meaningful social impact.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"