Saiful’s journey from employee to successful entrepreneur

TAM Report ||

Saiful Islam Pathan, 37, worked for over 13 years at several reputed organizations in Bangladesh. Despite a stable career and a monthly salary of around 150,000 taka, Saiful was determined to pursue his dream of becoming an entrepreneur. In August 2022, he left his well-paying job and founded his own sales and marketing company, “Pathan Enterprise,” which imports spinning mill yarn from abroad and supplies it to garment factories across Bangladesh. Today, Saiful’s monthly income exceeds five lakh taka, and he has created jobs for several others as well.

Saiful’s journey from employee to entrepreneur was far from easy. The comfort and security of a fixed salary and an established career tempted him to stay in his job longer. But the challenges of increasing expenses and limited financial growth compelled him to take a bold step. He recalls the difficult decision: “Even though I was performing well, the salary increments were minimal and life was becoming more expensive. During the Covid-19 pandemic, I had to endure two months without pay, which was particularly hard. That’s when I realized I needed to create my own path.”

Graduating from Bangladesh University of Textiles (BUTEX) in 2011, Saiful worked at companies like Viyellatex and Renaissance Group, where he honed his skills in garment marketing and merchandising. Though he dreamed of entrepreneurship from early on, he initially lacked the knowledge and confidence to start a business, so he focused on his job. However, during the pandemic lockdown, with more time at home, Saiful began to study the biographies of successful businesspeople and took marketing training to prepare himself.

Starting the business was a struggle. With limited capital, he negotiated flexible rent payments with his landlord and even sold his motorcycle to finance his new venture. He minimized all unnecessary expenses, avoided social outings, and often walked long distances for marketing visits. “The first year was full of hardship. I faced sun, rain, and exhaustion, but I never gave up. I believed that hard work and faith would lead me to success,” he says.

Saiful emphasizes why entrepreneurship is crucial, especially for youth. “A job confines you to fixed hours and limited income. But business rewards your effort and innovation. In a company, bosses take most credit, and employees rarely receive true recognition or adequate growth. Also, jobs often come with mental stress and lack of freedom,” he explains.

Currently, Saiful imports yarn mainly from China and India and supplies it to garment factories in Bangladesh. Through his enterprise, he earns a monthly profit exceeding five lakh taka. He also provides employment opportunities to several others, contributing to the local economy.

Looking ahead, Saiful aims to expand his business further and attract investments from both domestic and foreign partners. He also hopes to create more job opportunities for unemployed youth. His journey stands as a shining example for others who aspire to break free from the limitations of traditional employment and build their own successful ventures.

“Leaving a secure job to enter the uncertain world of business is not easy, but with proper knowledge, patience, and determination, it is possible to succeed,” Saiful concludes. His story inspires young Bangladeshis to dare to dream, work hard, and create their own path to success.