JCI Bangladesh honours women leaders at ‘Women of Inspiration Award 2025’

Junior Chamber International (JCI) Bangladesh celebrated ten extraordinary women and three unsung heroes at the Women of Inspiration Award (WOIA) 2025, held Saturday evening at Aloki Convention in Dhaka.

The event recognized contributions in fields such as sports, entertainment, business, fashion, healthcare innovation, law, and community development. It opened with remarks by Chief Guest Mahbubur Rahman, President of ICC Bangladesh, followed by speeches from JCI Bangladesh National President Kazi Fahad and JCI World Advisor Ravi Shankar, who praised the role of women in shaping Bangladesh's future.

A major highlight was the Lifetime Achievement Award presented to legendary singer Runa Laila for her lifelong contributions to music and the arts. Other honorees included Afeida Khandaker, captain of the Bangladesh Women's Football Team; actress and producer Toma Mirza; entrepreneur Farzana Shakil; healthcare innovator Azra Selim; fashion designer Sarah Karim; advocate Nazia Kabir; and medical professional Prof Dr Farhana Dewan.

Emerging leaders Zarin Rashid and influencer Nodi Khandakar were honored for their dynamic roles in youth leadership and beauty entrepreneurship. Community activists Hafiza Akter Rani, Ayesha Chowdhury, and student leader Sanu Akter Nodi were recognized as the night's unsung heroes.

The program also observed a minute of silence to honor victims of the recent Milestone School tragedy. It featured the launch of JCI Bangladesh Magazine, the inauguration of the "Branding Bangladesh" initiative, and cultural performances by Alif & Co., capped by a concert from singer Kona.

The event was supported by NCC Bank (Title Sponsor), UCB Bank (Powered by Sponsor), and Threadworks Limited (Platinum Sponsor), among others.