Reshma’s Rise: From Early Marriage to Entrepreneurial Success -

Married at 13, Reshma Akhter from Bagerhat, Bangladesh, transformed her life through sheer determination. By 17, she was a mother of two, yet she refused to let early marriage define her future. Once her children grew older, Reshma resumed her education, completing an open university course.

Reshma’s Entrepreneurial Spark

In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Reshma spotted a market gap. Noticing that apple cider vinegar was mostly imported and expensive, she began producing it at home. Her affordable, locally-made product quickly gained popularity among friends and family.

Training Fuels Reshma’s Ambitions

Through a Facebook group, Reshma discovered an entrepreneur development training course at the Institute of Marine Technology in Bagerhat. This training, part of the EU-funded Skills 21 project by the International Labour Organization (ILO), equipped her with essential business skills. She learned about trademarking, legal procedures, and dealership setups, which were crucial for expanding her venture.

Tahseen Food Industry Takes Off

Armed with new knowledge, Reshma launched Tahseen Food Industry, named after her eldest son. She established an office and factory in Bagerhat and is setting up dealerships in major cities like Dhaka, Khulna, Chittagong, and Sylhet. Her goal is to produce 3,000 bottles of apple cider vinegar monthly, with plans for further expansion once her certification from the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) is finalized.

Reshma’s Impact on the Community

Reshma’s success extends beyond her business. She is creating employment opportunities in her community, prioritizing women workers as part of her commitment to empowerment. Her journey exemplifies how access to education and training can transform lives, inspiring others to pursue their dreams despite challenges.

The Skills 21 project, a collaboration between the Government of Bangladesh, the ILO, and the EU, addresses the need for quality technical education in a country where two million people join the workforce annually. By fostering a competency-based and market-driven training system, the project helps individuals like Reshma acquire skills that meet labor market demands, enhancing productivity and driving inclusive economic growth.

Reshma’s story is a testament to resilience and the power of seizing opportunities. Her transformation from a young bride to a successful entrepreneur showcases the impact of determination and access to education. She continues to inspire her community and beyond, proving that with the right support, anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.