Lubaba’s holiday market inspires young talents
Staff Reporter :
Lubaba Jannat, a female enterpreneur has not only transformed her own life but has also ignited a movement of women-led business initiatives in Faridpur. Starting with a modest loan of just 10,000 BDT (about $100) from her husband, Lubaba has built an inspiring legacy centered around community empowerment and economic opportunity.
Balancing the challenges of managing a family of five with her entrepreneurial dreams, Lubaba refused to take the conventional route of working in isolation. Instead, she focused on self-development, participating in government-sponsored skill development programs and actively networking with fellow entrepreneurs across the country.
Institutions such as the Department of Agricultural Extension, the National Women’s Association, the SME Foundation, and the Bangladesh Computer Council played a crucial role in enhancing her skills and strengthening her vision.
After months of relentless effort, Lubaba achieved a significant milestone — securing official permission from the Faridpur Municipality to establish a weekly market. Allocated a prime location in front of the Civil Surgeon’s office, she founded the Faridpur Holiday Market.
Today, the market has grown into a dynamic hub where 40 to 50 entrepreneurs, many of them women, gather every week to sell handmade crafts, household items, fashion accessories, and more. What started as a simple business venture has evolved into a vibrant community event, offering budding entrepreneurs a physical platform to grow their brands beyond online marketplaces.
“For many online business owners, the Holiday Market has become a critical stepping stone,” said Lubaba. “It helps bridge the gap between virtual sales and face-to-face customer engagement, building trust and expanding reach.”
The success of the Faridpur Holiday Market stands as a powerful reminder that women entrepreneurs, when given the right support and space, can create economic opportunities not just for themselves, but for entire communities.
Lubaba’s story also highlights the importance of skill development, institutional support, and local government collaboration in nurturing entrepreneurship across Bangladesh.
As Faridpur celebrates its vibrant new Friday tradition, Lubaba Jannat remains at its heart — a symbol of resilience, innovation, and the boundless potential of women entrepreneurs.