Q. Let’s start the interview with your career journey, from your initial entry into business to your current roles in multiple industries.

I began my professional journey within our family business, which specialized in the manufacturing of aluminum utensils. It was a valuable experience, and I quickly became involved in various aspects of the enterprise. To enhance our operations, I initiated the import of aluminum ingots. This allowed us not only to meet our internal requirements but also to explore trading opportunities in the metal market. Understanding the intricacies of the international metal market and pricing became crucial, leading me to pursue further education in this domain. In 2010, I enrolled in a course offered by the prestigious London Metal Exchange (LME), which provided invaluable insights into the complexities of the industry.

However, as my journey progressed, I felt a strong inclination toward venturing into non-traditional business sectors. This desire led me to explore the realm of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) manufacturing. This shift marked a significant turning point in my career. The pharmaceutical industry, particularly API manufacturing, presented unique challenges and opportunities.

My foray into the pharmaceutical sector demanded a deep understanding of the intricate processes involved in API production. It required meticulous attention to quality control, regulatory compliance, and the ever-evolving demands of the pharmaceutical market. I was drawn to the potential of this industry to contribute to both the healthcare sector and the nation’s economy.

Q. Share some key insights into how you manage your expertise across diverse sectors such as chemicals, life sciences, agro biotech, finance, and construction, while playing leadership roles in each?

First and foremost, assessing the market’s size and growth potential is paramount. Understanding the dimensions of the market provides critical insights into its viability and future prospects. A large market, especially one in an expansion phase, typically offers more room for maneuver and growth.

Scalability is another crucial factor in evaluating a new venture. Resource availability is equally vital. Before venturing into a new business, it’s imperative to determine whether the necessary resources are readily accessible. These resources can encompass financial capital, skilled manpower, infrastructure, and technology.

Furthermore, comprehensive market research and analysis play a pivotal role in decision-making. it’s equally essential to evaluate the alignment between the new venture and the overarching goals and values of the organization or leadership role. Moreover, risk assessment and contingency planning are integral parts of the process. While calculated risks are often necessary for growth, having a robust risk mitigation and contingency strategy in place provides a safety net for unforeseen challenges.

In my journey, these principles have guided me through the complexities of evaluating new ventures. While there’s no one-size-fits-all formula for success, a thoughtful and strategic approach, rooted in market understanding, scalability, resource assessment, and alignment with organizational values, has proven to be a valuable compass for decision-making. It’s a continuous learning process, and each venture brings new lessons and insights, contributing to personal and organizational growth.

Q. Shed some light on some recent developments or innovations in the healthcare industry that you find particularly exciting or promising.

The healthcare sector has undeniably taken center stage in recent times, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s a stark reminder of how essential life-saving drugs and medical advancements are in safeguarding lives during health crises. While I don’t wish to alarm our readers, it’s worth noting that there exist countless viruses, if not billions, with the potential to cause outbreaks. Therefore, it’s incumbent upon us to proactively prepare and fortify our defenses against such threats.

In this regard, the importance of innovation cannot be overstated. The story of a Canadian startup, Bluedot, serves as an inspiring example. Bluedot harnessed the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to predict the COVID-19 outbreak before it unfolded. This proactive approach demonstrates the immense potential of cutting-edge technologies in disease surveillance and early warning systems.

To delve deeper into this, the key lies in the fusion of data analytics, AI, and epidemiological insights. By analyzing vast datasets encompassing everything from global travel patterns to environmental factors, AI-driven platforms can identify potential disease hotspots and emerging threats. This level of predictive analytics equips us with invaluable time to prepare and implement preventive measures.

Q. As the Founder of Pristine Chem Ltd, how do you see the intersection of healthcare and technology shaping the future of the life sciences industry?

My journey into the realm of digital healthcare, particularly through the online course at the Medical Futurist Institute in Germany, has been a truly enlightening experience. The insights gained during this course have illuminated the transformative potential of technology within the healthcare landscape.

One of the most compelling facets of this transformation lies in the integration of blockchain technology within the pharmaceutical sector. The concept of blockchain in pharma holds immense promise, as it offers a transparent, secure, and immutable ledger for tracking the production, distribution, and authentication of pharmaceuticals.

Furthermore, the course delved into the fascinating frontier of utilizing Artificial Intelligence (AI) for drug design. This is nothing short of revolutionary. AI-driven algorithms have the capacity to expedite drug discovery by sifting through colossal datasets and simulating complex molecular interactions.

Another awe-inspiring frontier is the advent of 3D printed drugs. The idea of personalizing drug formulations through 3D printing technology signifies a paradigm shift in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Patients can receive medications tailored to their unique needs, whether it’s adjusting the dosage or combining multiple drugs into a single, easily consumable form. This not only enhances treatment efficacy but also improves patient compliance.

My exposure to the evolving landscape of digital healthcare through the Medical Futurist Institute has been nothing short of transformative. The future of healthcare, as illuminated by blockchain, AI-driven drug design, medical decision support systems, and 3D printed medications, promises to be a realm where the boundaries of what’s possible are continually pushed. As the founder of Pristine Chem Ltd., I am keenly aware of the potential for these innovations to shape the future of pharmaceuticals and healthcare, and I look forward to being an active participant in this transformative journey.

Q. Could you please tell us more about how the Digital Healthcare ecosystem is currently evolving and expanding worldwide?

It’s truly remarkable to see the substantial investments and initiatives from major tech players in the healthcare sector. NVIDIA, for instance, has made a significant $100 million investment in launching Cambridge-1, the United Kingdom’s most powerful supercomputer. This cutting-edge technology is set to empower top scientists and healthcare experts to harness the potent synergy of AI and simulation. The goal is to accelerate the digital biology revolution, further solidifying the country’s position as a leader in the life sciences industry.

Microsoft, another tech giant, has demonstrated its commitment to healthcare through a substantial $16 billion investment. The company has introduced a health-centric cloud platform designed to seamlessly integrate its various services, including Microsoft Teams, Azure IoT, and Healthcare Bot.

Additionally, Google has made significant strides in healthcare by acquiring DeepMind, a move aimed at enhancing the utilization of AI for medical and research purposes. What’s truly exciting is that numerous other companies are also stepping up with innovative ideas and substantial investments, which collectively paint a promising picture for the future of healthcare. These investments are not only fostering technological advancements but also driving the democratization of healthcare services and improving access for all.

Q. Walk us through the insights into how technology is transforming the construction industry, and what role 3D Built plays in this transformation?

The impact of 3D construction on the industry is nothing short of revolutionary. This technology has ushered in a new era by significantly enhancing various aspects of construction, including design, cost efficiency, safety, and sustainability. One of its remarkable advantages is the improved visualization it offers, which reduces errors and expedites construction processes. To put things in perspective, it’s astonishing to note that a 1200 square foot apartment can now be constructed in just 48 hours through the application of 3D printing technology. What’s even more impressive is that this technology is scalable and can be seamlessly integrated into large-scale construction projects, making it a global phenomenon.

As part of our commitment to staying at the forefront of innovation, my team and I have been diligently collaborating with a European company that specializes in 3D construction technology. Our shared vision is to introduce and establish this cutting-edge technology right here in Bangladesh. By doing so, we aim to not only leverage the benefits of 3D construction for our projects but also contribute to the advancement of the construction industry in our country. This is a testament to our dedication to embracing innovative solutions and driving progress in the field of construction.

Q. Tell us a little about your roles and responsibilities in EO Bangladesh and how it contributes to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Bangladesh?

In my capacity as President of EO Bangladesh, I shoulder the responsibility of closely collaborating with my esteemed board members and chairs throughout the year. Our journey typically commences with a Strategy Summit, a pivotal event facilitated by a global expert from EO, where we outline and set forth the objectives we aim to accomplish. EO, or Entrepreneurs’ Organization, is a dynamic entity that places a strong emphasis on multifaceted growth, encompassing facets such as learning and networking.

Within EO, we have a diverse range of offerings and programs designed to enrich the entrepreneurial experience. These include the Forum, a platform for meaningful dialogue and exchange; the GSEA (Global Student Entrepreneurs Award) which recognizes and supports budding student entrepreneurs; SAP (Strategic Alliance Partnership) to foster valuable collaborations; MyEO, catering to various interest groups within the organization; Marcom (Marketing & Communication) to amplify our outreach efforts; Member Engagement to ensure our members are fully immersed in the EO experience; SLP (Spouse & Life Partner) for a holistic approach; Mentorship to nurture the growth of our members; Finance to manage our fiscal endeavors; Governance to maintain transparency and adherence to best practices, and Membership Team, a cornerstone in our mission to bring like-minded entrepreneurs into the EO fold.

Each of these facets plays a unique and crucial role in our pursuit of EO’s mission, and together, they form a tapestry of opportunities and resources that empower entrepreneurs in Bangladesh and beyond. My role as President involves orchestrating and guiding these various elements toward the realization of our annual objectives, ensuring that EO remains a thriving and invaluable community for entrepreneurs in our region.

Q. EO is known for its global network of entrepreneurs. How has being a part of this network benefited your own entrepreneurial journey and the businesses you are involved in?

With a reach extending across 60 countries, EO brings together a remarkable community of over 18,000 like-minded leaders. The foundation of EO’s strength lies in the belief in the transformative power of connections, shared experiences, and collaborative learning. It’s within this dynamic framework that EO members find the resources and support needed to navigate the complex landscape of entrepreneurship. We facilitate life-enhancing connections that extend far beyond the bounds of traditional networking. Our community thrives on the exchange of ideas, the synergy of diverse perspectives, and the camaraderie of those who share the entrepreneurial journey.

As an entrepreneur myself and a proud member of EO, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact of this global network. It’s a privilege to be part of an organization that not only connects entrepreneurs but also propels them towards new horizons of achievement and fulfillment.

Q. What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders who are looking to make a difference in their industries and communities?

I’d like to offer a valuable perspective for aspiring entrepreneurs who are determined to make a lasting impact in their respective industries. Drawing from my own journey as an entrepreneur, here are my two cents:

First and foremost, never underestimate the power of investing in yourself. The path to success is paved with continuous learning and personal growth. Embrace every opportunity to acquire new knowledge, develop crucial skills, and stay at the forefront of industry trends. Remember, your investment in self-improvement is an investment in your business’s future.

Equally important is the art of networking. Forge meaningful connections within your industry and beyond. Your network can be a wellspring of support, advice, and opportunities that propel your entrepreneurial journey.

In the pursuit of your ambitions, don’t lose sight of your well-being. Both mental and physical health are the cornerstones of sustained success. Entrepreneurship can be demanding, so practice mindfulness and self-care. Dedicate time to cherish moments with friends and family. These relationships provide a vital anchor, reminding you of what truly matters and offering the joy and fulfillment that only genuine human connections can provide.

Remember that the journey of an entrepreneur is not just about building a business; it’s also about crafting a fulfilling and balanced life.