Widow enterpreneur entreprenerial Journey: A Case study on Nurjahan Khanam

This case study focuses on Shihab Boutiques, founded by Nurjahan Khanam, a widow woman in Komlai village, Bangladesh. With a capital of only $30, Nurjahan started the business in 2008, aiming to provide eco-friendly products and eliminate the use of plastics. Shihab Boutiques employs over 300 women and manufactures more than 200 eco-friendly products using raw materials like jute, water hyacinth, and coconut husk. The company serves domestic and international markets, and its products have been exported to various countries. The case highlights Nurjahan's entrepreneurial journey, from overcoming challenges like financial constraints and societal stigmas to expanding her business into diverse sectors, including fish farming, agriculture, and e-commerce. Despite the initial struggles, Nurjahan's hard work and focus on eco-friendly products have led to remarkable success. She has become financially self-sufficient, received awards for entrepreneurship, and now works as a trainer for the Ministry of Women and Child Affairs and the Department of Youth Development. Furthermore, Nurjahan's social contributions include establishing the Mukti Foundation, providing training to helpless and disabled women, supporting tiger widows, and engaging in various charitable activities. Her ultimate goal is to empower women and contribute to the sustainable economic development of the country by inspiring more women to become entrepreneurs.