1. Let’s start with an overview of M&M Business Communications and the inspiration behind its initiation.

As an education consultant and Managing Partner of Mentors’ Chattogram, I’ve dedicated 18 years to the education sector, holding significant positions at various universities. My roles have included Director of Admissions and Dean of Students at Asian University for Women and Registrar and Director of Networking and Placement at East Delta University. In mid-2016, I embarked on a new journey with Mentors’, leveraging my global university connections to mentor students for higher education abroad and organize numerous education fairs, notably at the Radisson Blu Chattogram.

During one such event, I was approached by Radisson Chattogram and it was suggested that I could apply my expertise in organizing education fairs to create other events related to lifestyle, or fashion. Frankly, I wasn’t sure if I could or even if I wanted to do lifestyle events because I had little interest in the fashion industry and I believed it doesn’t go with my image. But then an idea hit me. I thought why not create a lifestyle event from the perspective of women empowerment. I knew it would be challenging and I love challenges. Since I like doing things in a planned and organized way, I founded M&M Business Communications to be the platform to do events and activities to empower women. This venture has not only been a personal joy but also serves a meaningful purpose by providing a platform primarily for women entrepreneurs—98% of our participants are women. It connects them with a discerning clientele, fostering relationships that last year-round. This exhibition has grown beyond a mere event; it’s a community where women empower each other through entrepreneurship.

2. Walk us through the types of events and exhibitions M&M Business Communications organizes, and the other activities or initiatives the company is involved in. 

People who know my work say that I am a multi-tasker because they see me doing several things simultaneously. I am able to do that because I am purpose driven and always plan at the granular level. As the driving force behind M&M Business Communications, I’ve curated a lifestyle exhibition that encompasses a diverse array of offerings, including clothing, jewelry, and home décor. Throughout the year, we meticulously plan four/five exhibitions— three keyed to the cultural significance of Ramadan and Qurbani, and the others celebrating the wedding season and other festive occasions. 

Beyond the realm of exhibitions, M&M has ventured into the conference space, exemplified by a notable Women Leadership event in collaboration with Radisson Chattogram and corporate partners. This diversification reflects our commitment to creating platforms that inspire and empower.

Balancing these endeavors with my primary commitment to Mentors’, my full-time business, poses its challenges. The growing demand for our event organization expertise is encouraging, hinting at future possibilities. While time constraints currently limit our capacity to take on additional projects, the prospect of expanding our event portfolio in the future remains an exciting avenue we want to explore.

3. Exhibitions seem to be a focal point for your company, could you tell us a little about how you approach creating unique and engaging exhibitions that stand out in a competitive market?

Competition is an integral part of the market ecosystem, serving as a catalyst for growth and innovation. In Chattogram, I am recognized as a pioneer and trendsetter in the industry, a title that brings me immense satisfaction. My approach to maintaining this status involves a meticulous selection process for exhibitors, emphasizing the importance of high-quality products and reputable participants. This careful curation ensures that our discerning clientele is presented with superior offerings, reinforcing our commitment to excellence.

In my journey, collaboration has been as vital as competition. I firmly believe in the power of networking and partnership, prioritizing cooperative efforts over rivalry. This philosophy has led me to engage in numerous collaborations, expanding our network and enhancing the scope of our platform. My focus on collaboration over competition is aimed at creating more opportunities, especially for women entrepreneurs, fostering an environment where their businesses can thrive and contribute to the market’s dynamism. This balance of selectivity, improvement, and partnership underscores my commitment to not just leading but also enriching the marketplace and community we serve.

4. Walk us through some of the significant milestones that the company has achieved and how they have shaped the organization?

With each event, I witness tangible progress, underpinned by immense dedication and hard work. While I am fortunate to have a stellar team supporting our vision, I place great importance on personal involvement. Crafting content, engaging directly with customers, and creating a welcoming atmosphere are tasks I cherish, as they transform attendees into an extended family. This personal touch not only fosters hospitality but also upholds the reputable image we’ve established in Chattogram, both personally and professionally.

Striving for excellence, I am committed to maintaining the high standards our exhibitions are known for, ensuring they reflect our valued image without compromise. We are on a path of continuous improvement, seeking to infuse each fair with unique variations and themes. Believing firmly in the impact of visual appeal, I prioritize exquisite decoration and collaborate with esteemed event partners. This approach ensures that the ambiance of each event is not just inviting but enriching, benefiting both customers and participants alike. Through these efforts, our exhibitions stand as a testament to our commitment to quality, innovation, and community.

5. How does the distinct business landscape in Chattogram, as compared to Dhaka, influence your strategies and operations, especially in organizing exhibitions?

The stark contrast between Dhaka and Chattogram, particularly in market size, is unmistakable. Dhaka, with its vastness, presents no parallel in Chattogram. This difference is especially evident in my work within the education sector. In Chattogram, my focus narrows to a selection of few schools, whereas in Dhaka, the scope expands dramatically, showcasing the sheer magnitude of Dhaka’s educational landscape.

Similarly, while Chattogram boasts significant wealth and potential among its buyers, it cannot match Dhaka’s scale. However, this disparity has not deterred the success of our exhibitions. In fact, our events thrive, attracting a substantial number of participants from Dhaka. Bringing at least 20 renowned Dhaka brands together under one roof in Chattogram has captured the local market’s imagination, turning our exhibitions into highly anticipated events.

This unique convergence not only satisfies Chattogram’s consumer curiosity but also simplifies access to Dhaka’s premium quality products. It’s a testament to our exhibitions’ ability to bridge the gap between the two cities, enhancing the retail landscape in Chattogram by introducing diversity and quality directly from Dhaka’s vibrant market.

6. Through organizing these events and exhibitions, it seems like you’ve created a community of local entrepreneurs. How do you believe this community-building aspect impacts both the local community and the broader entrepreneurial landscape?

Our exhibitions, though modest in scope, have significantly impacted on the entrepreneurial landscape. It’s been incredibly rewarding to witness the evolution of many entrepreneurs who began their journey with us, starting from online pages to renting half stalls, and eventually securing double stalls before opening their own storefronts. Hearing their stories of growth and learning that our exhibition played a pivotal role in attracting their initial customer base fills me with immense satisfaction and pride. It’s a testament to the positive influence we wield within the entrepreneurial community.

The progress and empowerment of women, in particular, resonate deeply with me. Observing women gaining financial independence, thriving in their ventures, and carving paths to self-sufficiency is profoundly fulfilling. It reinforces my belief in the importance of financial autonomy for women, not only for the confidence and decision-making power it brings but also for the enhanced respect and value it garners within their families and society at large. To know that our efforts contribute, even modestly, to this empowerment is a source of great joy. Empowering women is not just a goal but a necessity, pivotal to transforming societal structures and fostering an environment where equality and respect flourish.

7. Share your future plans and aspirations for M&M Business Communications, are there any new initiatives you plan to explore in the coming years?

Since my passion involves education and women empowerment, my vision for the future is set on making meaningful contributions in both the fields. My aspiration is to take our exhibitions to an international stage where the products of our local women can be showcased for the world. Beyond expanding geographically, I am eager to diversify the range of events we offer. The goal is to orchestrate conferences and corporate events that are not only productive but imbued with purpose, aiming to make a meaningful impact in the near future, Insha’Allah. This evolution will mark a significant milestone in our journey, broadening our scope and reinforcing our commitment to fostering entrepreneurial and professional development on a global scale.

On the education front I’ll continue to help the students achieve their dreams by guiding them on study abroad, organize student oriented events and provide them with life-long mentorship.