The Magic of Networking

Glimpses from Valorous 2023, an event catered to empower women and create a space for networking opportunities.


 

Valorous is an event founded by Aniqa Naorin, and co-founded by Mehreen Bushra, Noor E Sifat, Anika Zahin and Farhina Tahrim. The aim of Valorous is to empower women and create a space for working women to network and discuss their professional achievements, barriers faced in the workplace and pressures faced by society. 

Photograph: Courtesy of Valorous

Valorous 2023 was held on February 24th, 2023, at the National Parliament House, LD Hall Field, Dhaka. The event was sponsored by Patterns by Aniqa, IPDC Finance Limited and the Ministry of Cultural Affairs.  Over 200 working women attended the event, which kicked off with the attendees introducing themselves and talking about their work. The chief guest was Shuborna Mustafa, MP, who spoke about the value of empowering women and the necessary steps needed for women to support each other. She also urged women to be open to taking on more leadership positions. 

Afterwards, yoga and meditation instructor Eza Chowdhury conducted a workshop highlighting the value of having a healthy mind and body, and how understanding one’s inner pain can help one understand oneself better. She then conducted a meditation session with breathing exercises, allowing the attendees to relax and better take in their surroundings. 

In addition, there was a panel discussion on the importance of networking for working women. The panellists were Kona Alam, founder of Woman’s World Bangladesh, Sayma Rahman, founder of SR Ventures and Consultancy, Manzuma Murshed, owner of Mentors Chattogram and M&M Events, and Anika Azam, founder of KRI events. The panellists shared their experiences, offered advice, and discussed their goals. 

Valorous 2023 provided a unique opportunity for women to learn from each other, build their networks, and gain valuable insights. Hopefully, this annual event will continue to empower women and provide such opportunities in the coming years.