Founder’s Biography: Neshat Unzum

Neshat Unzum Lopa’s Vision

I envision a Bangladesh where social equity and sustainable development are not just aspirations, but lived realities for every citizen, regardless of their geographic location or gender. My mission is to bridge the gap between complex legal frameworks and the grassroots needs of rural communities. Through my work as a legal professional and a social activist, I strive to dismantle the deep-seated taboos surrounding women’s health, particularly menstrual hygiene, which remains a significant barrier to education and dignity in rural areas like Natore.

I believe that true progress requires a multi-dimensional approach that combines ethical governance, environmental stewardship, and youth empowerment. Whether I am drafting corporate agreements or leading climate resilience initiatives, my goal is to foster a culture of compliance that protects both people and the planet. I am committed to creating platforms like “Men for Menstruation” that engage men and boys in the conversation, ensuring that social justice is a collective pursuit rather than a siloed struggle. My vision is to lead by example—proving that professional excellence in law and passionate social entrepreneurship can coexist to drive systemic, sustainable change for the underrepresented.

Childhood

Growing up in Bangladesh, my early years were defined by a keen observation of the social structures and cultural heritage that shaped my community. I was raised with a deep appreciation for the rich traditions of local craftsmanship, but I also became aware of the systemic challenges faced by those in rural areas. These formative experiences instilled in me a sense of responsibility to advocate for those whose voices are often sidelined.

My journey toward leadership began early, fueled by a desire to understand the intersection of law, culture, and social welfare. Even as a young student, I was drawn to volunteerism and community engagement, participating in blood camps and nutrition programs that taught me the value of collective action. These childhood reflections on justice and equity eventually became the foundation of my professional identity, driving me to pursue a career where I could transform my empathy into impactful legal and social initiatives.

Academic Journey

My academic foundation was built at Brac University, where I earned my Bachelor of Law between 2014 and 2018. During my time there, I was an active member of the Brac University Law Association, which allowed me to hone my legal research skills and engage with the broader legal community. This degree provided the rigorous training necessary to navigate the complexities of property law, corporate compliance, and social justice.

Seeking to expand my impact from legal interpretation to systemic implementation, I am currently pursuing an Executive Master of Public Administration at the University of Dhaka. This advanced study focuses on governance, policy analysis, and the mechanics of public health and social security. My academic pursuits are complemented by specialized training, such as the entrepreneurial programs from ITC, SheTrades, and WeConnect, which have equipped me with the strategic tools to lead both corporate and social enterprises with precision and foresight.

Entrepreneurship: Fashion & Social Impact

My entrepreneurial journey is a dual path of creative expression and social revolution. As the Founder and Chief Designer of Aurum Bangladesh, I established a fashion brand that serves as a bridge between traditional heritage and modern urban style. My approach to fashion is rooted in sustainability; I prioritize environmentally friendly materials and ethical production methods to ensure a minimal ecological footprint. By collaborating closely with local artisans, I work to preserve Bangladesh’s rich cultural craftsmanship while adapting it for the contemporary global market. My work with Aurum has been recognized by media outlets like Jamuna Television and Colours FM, where I have shared my insights on the challenges and triumphs of being a woman entrepreneur.

Parallel to my creative endeavors is my commitment to social entrepreneurship through Men for Menstruation (M4M). Recognizing that menstrual health is a human rights issue, I founded M4M to provide education and resources to girls in rural Natore. A key pillar of this initiative is community engagement; we actively involve men and boys to reduce the stigma and taboos associated with menstruation. We don’t just provide education; we provide tools, such as reusable sanitary products, to ensure long-term dignity and health.

This dedication to public health and gender equity led to my nomination as a 120 Under 40 leader by the Bill & Melinda Gates Institute. Furthermore, as the President of the Period.inc Dhaka Chapter, I have led international-standard advocacy campaigns to facilitate access to menstrual products for underserved communities. My entrepreneurship is not just about building brands; it is about building a more equitable society where health and style are accessible to all.

Global Travel & Perspective

Travel is more than a hobby for me; it is a vital source of inspiration and a means of gaining global perspectives on local problems. My journey has taken me across South Asia and beyond, allowing me to observe how different cultures address issues of governance and sustainability. These international experiences have been instrumental in shaping my professional growth, providing me with a broader lens through which to view the challenges facing Bangladesh.

From participating in youth conferences in India to attending climate summits in Sri Lanka and Nepal, I have engaged with a global network of activists and leaders. These travels have taught me that while our local contexts differ, our goals for social security and environmental resilience are universal. Exploring diverse cultures has reinforced my belief that innovation often happens at the intersection of different ideas, and I bring this global mindset back to every project I lead in Dhaka.

Workshops & Fellowships

I have consistently sought out high-level professional development to enhance my capacity for leadership. In 2023, I participated in an LGED Workshop in South Korea and a Workshop on Local Governance in the UK, focusing on the mechanics of ethical administration. As a Lean In Professional Fellow, I dedicated myself to empowering women in the workplace, focusing on leadership development and breaking the “glass ceiling”.

My commitment to climate action is reflected in my membership in the Climate Action Champions Network through the US Department of State, where I work on youth-led advocacy for climate resilience. Additionally, as a fellow for the Observer Research Foundation, I contribute to policy research that addresses socio-political issues and youth empowerment. These workshops and fellowships are the crucibles where my practical experience meets academic theory, allowing me to refine my strategies for social and corporate impact.

Comments from Others

• Afsan Chowdhury, Academic, Brac University: As a former student and now a legal professional, Neshat has always demonstrated a profound understanding of the law as a tool for social change. Her transition from law to public administration is a natural progression for a future policy leader.
• Moury Naznin, Entrepreneur: Neshat represents the new wave of Bangladeshi entrepreneurs who balance commercial success with deep ethical responsibility. Her work with Aurum Bangladesh proves that sustainable fashion can be both stylish and culturally significant.
• Rubina Khan, HR Professional: Having seen her navigate complex corporate environments, Neshat’s ability to ensure legal compliance while fostering a collaborative atmosphere is remarkable. Her strategic leadership as a Legal Officer is a testament to her professional rigor.
• Fouzia Jahan, Architect and Photographer: Neshat has a unique eye for design that honors traditional craftsmanship. Whether it’s through her fashion collections or her creative advocacy projects, she consistently creates a visual narrative that is both impactful and beautiful.
• Asha Zahid, Journalist: Neshat is a powerful voice in the media, frequently advocating for public health and women’s rights. Her contributions to roundtable discussions on maternal health and TB show her unwavering commitment to social justice.
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Awards and Honors

• 120 Under 40 Nominee: Recognized by the Bill & Melinda Gates Institute for Population and Reproductive Health for leadership in reproductive health and menstrual hygiene advocacy.

• Lean In Professional Fellow (2019): Selected for this prestigious leadership development program focused on professional growth and female empowerment.

• Observer Research Foundation Fellow: Chosen to contribute to policy research regarding governance, sustainable development, and youth empowerment.

International Conferences and Summits

• Climate Summits (2023): Participated in high-level climate discussions in both Sri Lanka and Nepal.

• South Korea & UK Workshops (2023): Attended specialized workshops on Local Governance and LGED administration.

• Youth Conference, India (2022): Represented youth interests at a regional summit.

• Dubai Conference: Represented social and entrepreneurial interests at an international forum.

Key Speaking and Seminar Engagements

• SDG and Social Justice (2019): Presented an idea paper on marginalized communities at a workshop organized by BLAST.

• Public Health Roundtables: Frequent speaker at sessions hosted by Prothom Alo on maternal health and tuberculosis (TB).

• Entrepreneurial Training: Completed business growth programs with ITC, SheTrades, and WeConnect.