Celebrate International Women’s Day 2026 as leaders like Sarah Ali and Peya Jannatul champion the Give to Gain spirit. From Dhaka to global stages, women drive innovation, equality, and resilience to empower future generations.

Ashreen Mridha, co-founder of Deshi Ballers, is redefining women’s basketball in Bangladesh by challenging systemic barriers, empowering female athletes, and building a legacy of leadership, inclusion, and resilience through sport-driven social change.

Sigma Huda’s legacy for the empowerment of women, be it at the home, on the roads or in the courtroom, lives on.

More than a century ago, revered Bengali writer Begum Rokeya in her short story Sultana’s Dream had visualized futuristic inventions like solar cookers, atmospheric water generators and flying air-cars. She dreamt of Ladyland as a feminist utopia without crime, the death penalty and epidemics. Here men were shut indoors and responsible for childcare and household chores, while women with “quicker” brains pursued science and shaped inventions.

True empowerment is built on empowering women to make life decisions free from outside pressures like discrimination, constraints, or societal standards

For the longest time, girls and women in Bangladesh have refrained from talking about their bodies…that too, in public. Long story short, breasts, bras, and lingerie have always been excluded from conversations.

Located in Studio 6/6 in Mohammadpur, the mural project engaged an all-woman team and leadership, supported by male allies, to create a symbol of empowerment and solidarity.

Given the theme of inspiring inclusion, it's imperative to ask: does academic research sufficiently inspire inclusion?

Amidst the serene backdrop of Baridhara Lakeside Rajuk Park, Dhaka Flow organised its eagerly awaited “Inspire Her Wellness” festival in honour of International Women's Day on 8 and 9 March 2024. This event not only commemorated International Women's Day but also set a precedent for wellness and empowerment initiatives — it was a call to action for inclusion and a celebration of women's multifaceted roles in society.

We need to challenge the persistent biases against women in workplace

Nishat Khan, a professional boxer and fashion designer, has been breaking stereotypes with her jab and hook, proving that boxing prowess has nothing to do with gender, but entirely on skill and dedication.

In an era where the push for gender equity and inclusivity has become a central theme across various sectors, Star Lifestyle brings forth the stories of four incredible women, who are thriving in fields traditionally dominated by men. Their journeys inspire not only women but also societies to strive towards inclusivity, equity, and recognition of talent beyond gender constraints.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere of Women’s Day, young women in and around Dhaka have some dark stories to share, when it comes to living alone in Dhaka. Rife with discriminatory attitudes and security challenges, securing homes for single ladies in Dhaka continues to be a harrowing experience for all those who choose to live alone.

The landscape of investment has traditionally been male-dominated, with women significantly underrepresented in the field. However, Sayma Rahman has carved a niche for herself, transcending the conventional barriers that often side-line women in this sector.

Do men and women in Bangladesh want to maintain the status quo of gender roles in society?

It is evident we are doing even worse than we realised on gender equality.

Working women face these issues more often than others and as her partner, it is your duty to support her.

Women on Wheel Bangladesh is a community of exceedingly motivated and driven women who want to change the very culture and perception of women drivers in Bangladesh. They are a superb movement that combines empowerment, skill-building, community bonding and creating an inclusive atmosphere for women.

Runa Khan, the founder and executive director of the charity Friendship, has had a profound effect on the lives of innumerable people and families in Bangladesh. Runa Khan's extensive practical expertise in teaching, starting small companies, tourism, and communication, among other things, served as the foundation for friendship.

Digital transformation holds immense potential for accelerating gender equality and women’s empowerment.