Investing in women is a cornerstone for building inclusive societies

Behind the success of every woman is her indomitable willpower. If the will is strong then no obstacle can block her way. Morale, concentration and intelligence can take her to the top of success. One such woman is Maria Howlader FCA, Managing Partner and Founder of Howlader Maria & Co., a chartered accountancy firm which is an affiliated member of KRESTON Global.

Maria is a vice president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) and a Director of Japan-Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JBCCI). Sitting on the JBCCI Board, Maria Howlader is working to enhance confidence of Japanese investors so that they expand their business in the country in upcoming years. As a Vice President of ICAB, she is working for up-skilling woman CAs through imparting professional trainings, capacity building of CA firm and audit services by implementing audit software. She is focusing on making the female CA students more aware of their talents and intricate powers which ultimately help to overcome the challenges.

Maria Howlader is carrying out many responsibilities at the same time; leading own business, looking after family, children, the social engagements and the outside work in a parallel manner. No obstacle could stand in her way to accomplishing her dreams.

With a dream to serve the economy and the society, she established the CA firm where a good number of staff and consultants are working. She works specifically with the Singapore Business Federation and is also trying to explore new avenues in other countries as well. With that, Howlader Maria & Co. is growing very fast.

Talking about the hard work and the study, she said, "I had a dream of becoming a chartered accountant. Finally, my efforts paid off. This profession is very convenient for women to work and the field is very flexible for women. In case, women can also be entrepreneurs. If you want, you can work independently."

In a world facing multiple crises that are putting immense pressure on communities, achieving gender equality is more vital than ever. Ensuring women's and girls' rights across all aspects of life is the only way to secure prosperous and just economies, and a healthy planet for future generations, said Ms. Howlader.

In heart and mind, she believes, gender equality remains the greatest human rights challenge. Investing in women is a human rights imperative and cornerstone for building inclusive societies. Progress for women benefits us all.

Outside the country, Maria Howlader served as the Co-Chairman of Women Leadership Committee of South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA) Forum in 2020 and as the first Bangladeshi Chairman in 2021. She also believes inclusion of women in boards, especially in corporates, will lead to greater equality and diversity.

There is no reason to be behind as a woman. If someone wants to work in any field, she has to work hard. No one will create opportunities for you. You have to create your own place and work. Only then you can be a successful woman, she observed.