Photo : BSS

GAZIPUR, June 17, 2026 (BSS) - Rising from a humble background marked by poverty and hardship, Ahidul Islam of Gazipur has emerged as a remarkable example of entrepreneurship and perseverance in Bangladesh's ready-made garment (RMG) sector.

The owner of Ahid Fashion, a denim jeans manufacturing factory in Auchpara, Tongi, Ahidul's journey began in 2001 when he joined a garment factory at Senakalyan Bhaban in Tongi with a monthly salary of only Taka 1,200. Over the years, through honesty, determination, and self-confidence, he transformed himself from an ordinary garment worker into a successful factory owner and mentor to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Ahidul's early life was filled with challenges. Coming from a family of salt workers, he worked in a sweater factory and later sold ready-made garments from a roadside van. Despite facing repeated financial losses due to dishonest dealings and market obstacles, he refused to give up.

In 2012, using Taka 300,000 saved from his small business, he rented two rooms in Auchpara and purchased 10 sewing machines and one cutting machine to establish his own garment factory. Although he had experience in sweater manufacturing, he had no formal training in producing denim jeans.

Determined to learn, Ahidul bought a pair of jeans from the market, carefully dismantled it, ironed each piece, and taught himself the cutting techniques required for production. Starting with only four workers, his factory expanded rapidly within a few years and now employs between 40 and 50 workers.

The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a turning point in his business career. While many businesses struggled during the crisis, Ahidul embraced digital marketing and began promoting his products through Facebook and YouTube. The response exceeded expectations, generating orders from across the country and significantly boosting his business.

Today, Ahid Fashion operates six wholesale showrooms located at Gazipur Chowrasta, Board Bazar, and the Asharaf Setu Complex in Tongi Bazar.

Beyond his own success, Ahidul is widely recognized for empowering others. He has trained helpers, machine operators, and cutting masters working in his factory, encouraging them to become entrepreneurs themselves. 

According to Ahidul, around 100 former workers have established their own factories with his guidance and technical support, while more than 20,000 operators have received training through his organization.

Speaking to BSS, Ahidul emphasized that fair and timely payment of workers is the foundation of a successful business.

"The main principle of my business is to ensure that employees receive their wages fairly and on time. Employee satisfaction is the key to business growth and sustainability," he said.

Although global economic uncertainty and ongoing international conflicts have affected business activities, Ahidul remains optimistic about the future.

"Every business experiences both good and bad times. However, those who conduct business honestly do not face difficult times for long," he added.