Arakanese woman recognized as 'Outstanding Woman in Business 2023'

Jonathan, Narinjara News, 11 October 2024

Kyaw Sein Thay Dolly, managing director of Clothes ‘R’ Us Ltd, has been awarded the 'Outstanding Woman in Business 2023' honour. The Arakanese woman from Bangladesh was honoured at the 22nd Bangladesh Business Awards, reported The Daily Star on 10 October.

Dolly's recognition as the outstanding woman highlights her resilience and determination in overcoming adversity.

Born in Patharghata of  Chittagong locality  and brought up in Cox's Bazar locality, Dolly faced significant challenges when her father faced paralysis in 1994 leading to closure of the family owned screen-printing business.

Encouraged by her bedridden father, Dolly pursued a bachelor degree in Commerce at Tejgaon College, believing it would help her in  workplaces and also support her family of five members.

Dolly graduated in 1996 and joined Li & Fung as an assistant merchandiser in 1997.

Despite receiving an offer for a high salaried position as a personal secretary, she opted for the low-paying assistant role, understanding its potential for a long-term career.

During her 13 years at Li & Fung, she developed her skills and also completed an MBA by 2003.

"My MBA was a turning point for  my life," she said, analysing its role in shaping her entrepreneurial career.

Dolly's career advanced rapidly leading to the leadership roles at PVH and later she served as the country manager for MS Mode and MGF Sourcing in Jakarta.

By 2016, she directed MGF's operations in Bangladesh. However, her aspirations went beyond the corporate leadership.

In 2019, she founded Clothes ‘R’ Us and invested Taka one crore from the sale of a family-owned plot of land. 

Despite the challenges during the corona  pandemic, her business achieved a turnover of $ 10 million in 2022.

Her company focuses on working with brands and retailers to create the future of fashion by sourcing sustainable products from Bangladesh.

Moreover, the company is committed to sustainable development emphasizing the use of garments from bamboo-fiber, organic cotton and materials certified by the better cotton initiative.