Rendezvous of East and West: TigerBow
"Ever since I was a university student, I wanted to do something for the community that would distinguish me from the rest," says Wahid Hossain, the CEO and Founder of TigerBow.
TigerBow started its journey in 2013, with the hope to bring a positive change in social and financial condition of Bangladeshi artisans. Upholding Bangladeshi heritage and tradition in the foreign market through active participation in different international competitions, TigerBow has paved its way to be one of the best social ventures of Bangladesh. This company produces bow ties using traditional 'Katan' fabric, while taming the production process and empowering Bangladeshi female artisans. It not only empowers our artisans, but also, recognises them as one of the indispensable assets of the country.
The beginning of TigerBow was not as smooth as it seems. Wahid, with only one artisan, Sabina Chowdhury, by his side, embarked upon the journey to show the world what Bangladesh can do. "Apart from the garments industry, we have many more ways to bring sustainable solutions for the greater good. We can involve different NGOs in facilitating our artisans to have improved strategies for product marketing and customer service" - this was the idea that Wahid pitched in Social Venture Challenge, organised by Social Incubation Centre: The Resolution Project, based in New York. Wahid was announced as one of the winners. Consequently, Falguni Desia and Mave Wang, the Director of IBM and the Director of Deloitte, were there to mentor him. Besides, Wahid was also fortunate to have the mentorship of Laura Ries, one of the top professional consultants of the West. With the guidance of and lessons learnt from these people, Wahid has been able to branch out his company in USA and Canada. Now, his products are being worn by models like Dylan Hoffman from Grand Junction, Colorado. TigerBow now has admirers across the globe with official ambassadors in Barcelona, Germany, Toronto and USA. Even in Bangladesh, his products are securing their place with the help of companies like Emotion films.
Wahid is full of hope and encouragement. He calls for innovation and initiatives from all the youths who are out there trying to reach their goals. "The main push behind the expansion of TigerBow is a constant zeal and the determination to make the dream come true. This is what is needed in our youths to gain sustainable solutions to the ever-increasing problems of Bangladesh," Wahid believes.
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