Chaity breaking barriers through beauty services

Tanisha Yasmin Chaity from Rajbari never let her identity as a hijra limit her aspirations.

In a world that often rejected her, Chaity pursued education, worked with NGOs, and even contributed to the National Human Rights Commission.

However, these roles were always temporary, ending with the conclusion of projects and leaving her in search of stability.

But Chaity wanted a sustainable future. She turned to her lifelong passion for beauty and grooming, deciding to build a business of her own.

Hence, she opened "Uttaran Beauty Parlour" in her hometown in 2019.

Born in a conservative family, Chaity always felt a pull toward femininity, and as a teenager, she was forced to leave home and find refuge in the hijra community.

But Chaity didn't resonate with the hijra community's traditional ways of earning money. So, she returned home to complete her education.

However, societal rejection continued, pushing Chaity to leave once again to search for a way of building an independent life. It was during this journey that she found her true calling.

Introduced to the beauty industry by friends already working in the field, Chaity saw an opportunity to merge her passion with purpose.

With training from the Women's Affairs Department and countless hours spent learning through YouTube, she turned her dream into a reality.

After selling two cattle and using her savings, she opened her parlour in the Rajbari Pouro New Market area.

This decision wasn't without obstacles. At first, no one wanted to visit her beauty parlour.

"Some people would come in, but when they saw me, they would leave without taking any service. Others ridiculed me," Chaity recalled.

But she didn't let these setbacks discourage her. "I started by styling those who knew me and my skills. Those who saw my work were impressed. Today, women from the area insist on being styled by me," she said.

Chaity has continuously updated her services to align with current trends. She also received a grant from Bandhu Social Welfare Society, an organisation that works for the welfare of gender diverse population.

Today, her beauty parlour is not only a source of income but also provides livelihood opportunities for others like her. "My clients now know me for my skills, not my identity," Chaity added.

Her business thrives during wedding seasons and festivals.

Chaity lives independently, supports her parents, and contributes to her community. Her parlour now employs several members of the hijra community.

"My goal isn't just to succeed alone but to create opportunities for others in my community. I want people to understand that we don't need pity; we can work and prove ourselves," she said.

"Many say we lack training or resources. But I tell them, if you truly want something, you'll find a way. Courage is the key. Not everyone needs to run a beauty parlour. Even starting a business with street food, if done with passion, can lead to success," she added.

"Business is tough, but it's even tougher for hijras. Yet, it's not impossible. We must take the first step. There are so many examples within the hijra community. They can follow those examples," she said.

Chaity believes that in 20 years, they will be fully integrated into mainstream society. "It will take time, but we have to do our part," she said.