A two-day entrepreneur fair is currently underway in Mymensingh, showcasing a diverse range of products from emerging entrepreneurs. Taking place on 22 and 23 May 2025 (Thursday and Friday) at the Boishakhi Mancha, Joynul Abedin Park, the fair has been jointly organised by BRAC and UNICEF to promote sustainable livelihoods and foster entrepreneurial development.

Visitors are actively exploring 30 stalls featuring an extensive variety of goods — from boutique clothing, handicrafts, and cottage industry products to ready-made garments, traditional pithas, handmade snacks, confectionery, and electronic items — drawing strong interest and engagement from local shoppers.

The fair was inaugurated on Thursday by Asaduzzaman, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Mymensingh. Speaking at the event, he noted that the number of educated unemployed individuals in the country is on the rise. While government jobs continue to attract strong interest, employment in the private sector and alternative forms of livelihood remain undervalued. He emphasised the need for a shift in mindset as a nation to embrace these opportunities.

Also present at the inauguration were Sabbir Ahmed, Education Officer at UNICEF, and J M Saiful Islam, Head of the project ‘Empowering Most Disadvantaged Adolescents, Youth and Young Women by Creating an Ecosystem for Alternative Learning Programmes (ALP)’ at BRAC. The invited guests visited the stalls and spoke with the young entrepreneurs.

The fair will conclude on Friday, 23 May, with the closing ceremony attended by Md Ariful Islam Prince, Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Mymensingh Sadar Upazila.

The majority of participating entrepreneurs are women and young people who have received training through BRAC and UNICEF-supported initiatives. These entrepreneurs are showcasing and selling their handcrafted products directly to consumers, creating a unique space for personal interaction and meaningful exchange. Organisers hope the fair will enhance the visibility of grassroots producers, foster lasting connections with consumers, and open up opportunities for integration into broader market ecosystems.

Organised under the ALP project, the event is open to all from morning until 5 p.m.