The discussion, titled “Give to Gain: Empowering Women, Empowering the Nation,” explored the impact of collaboration, mentorship and resource-sharing, as well as the barriers that still hinder women’s advancement.

The panel addressed issues such as encouraging more girls to enter traditionally male-dominated STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), narrowing the leadership gap in both the private and public sectors, and strengthening women-led initiatives promoting employment and economic independence.

Participants included Sayma Shawkat, Managing Director of ASK Telecom Ltd. and Director at Gears Group and BACCO (Bangladesh Association of Contact Center and Outsourcing); Sarah Karim, Founder of Sarah Karim Couture; Anna Yang, Robotics Teacher at International School Dhaka; Amna Rahman, Board Vice President of Thrive; Sadia Moyeen, Board Member and Senior Adviser at Thrive and Director of Moyeen Foundation, as well as Proprietor of La Belle Beauty Salon; and Zarin Rashid, Director of TRZ Garments and Director at BAYLA (Bangladesh Apparel Youth Leaders Association).

Anna Yang emphasised the importance of encouraging girls to pursue STEM from an early age.

“STEM education is critical for empowering the next generation of girls. We must give them the independence to explore their interests and the confidence to try new things. It is important they understand that making mistakes is part of the learning process and that failure can sometimes be a precursor to innovation and leadership,” she said.

Speaking about the role of the private sector in supporting girls through technology and education, Sayma Shawkat said many young girls still lack access to basic technology, particularly in rural areas.

“Education and training are essential to unlocking opportunities for them. The private sector can play a crucial role by investing in skills development and creating pathways for young girls to gain confidence and enter the workforce,” she said.

Panelists also highlighted how collaboration between education, business and social organisations can expand mentorship opportunities and create stronger pathways for women to advance as professionals, entrepreneurs and leaders.

The roundtable was moderated by Towhida Afsar, Primary Years Programme (PYP) Coordinator at ISD, with opening remarks delivered by Faresta Ali Malick, Corporate Relations Representative at ISD.

ISD is home to many inspiring women who contribute to the school community every day, including educators, leaders, students and more than 300 women alumni pursuing diverse careers. The school supports its community through inclusive learning, mentorship and scholarship opportunities.

One such example is Humaira Afia Orthy, an ISD student who joined the school’s IB Diploma Programme on scholarship after studying under the national curriculum, demonstrating what becomes possible when ambition meets opportunity.