Fashion designer Afsana Ferdousi urged Bangladesh to build strong local fashion brands that can compete on the world stage, and her call gives designers, makers and shop owners a clear goal. Ferdousi said young designers must learn business skills as well as sewing and pattern making. She urged more training that teaches how to price items, find customers and tell a brand story. She also asked for funding paths that help small labels grow from craft projects into stable firms. To make this shift, Ferdousi asked factories, retailers and online platforms to work with designers on short runs, sample sales and small exports. She said local factories can help designers by offering quality checks, small batch runs and advice on cost control. The designer also stressed the power of clear branding and good photos. Simple steps like neat labels, careful packaging and easy online shops help buyers see value. She gave examples of how stories about craft and place can draw buyers who want real value and not just low price. Panel speakers and guests at the talk said the idea is practical and not sudden; it needs steady work on skills, finance and market access. They recommended incubators that teach design and business, partnerships with shops that sell local labels, and short programs that train managers in cost and stock control. Young makers in the audience said they felt encouraged and ready to try new ideas. Many agreed that local pride could match smart planning to build brands that last. Ferdousi ended with a simple message: Bangladesh has the talent and the tools; now it needs plans, patience and teamwork to turn makers into well known brands that earn more at home and abroad. Speakers also said e commerce and online marketplaces can help local brands reach more customers with low cost. They urged makers to learn digital marketing, social media and how to take good product pictures for online shops. Local nylon and cotton mills can work with designers to test new fabrics and reduce cost for small runs. Universities and fashion schools can set up mentoring programs that link students to industry mentors and small factory owners. Small quality control labs could help new brands meet export rules and build buyer trust. Affordable loans and tiny grants would let designers make better samples and try new ideas without big risk. Community markets and pop up fairs were suggested as low cost ways for brands to meet buyers and learn what sells. Simple rules for packaging and care labels will help customers feel confident to buy Bangladeshi products. A steady plan with clear pilots and shared learning would make it easier for many small teams to grow together.
