A Journey of Nineteen Years, a New Beginning
Starting over in a new country always begins with a single, necessary act: an introduction. For the past 19 years, my story was told through my book and powerful media outlets in Japan. But as I stood in the heart of New York City this March, I realized that the weight I carried was different now. This wasn't just a startup anymore. I was carrying the hopes and the hard work of everyone who has cultivated our brand from Japan to Bangladesh, and that realization made my heart beat so fast I felt I couldn't breathe.
My journey has always been about more than just fashion. It is about showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of Bangladesh and breaking through the stereotypes that often blur the distinct identities of Asian nations. In the early days, we grew through a "miracle" of zero advertising, relying purely on the strength of our purpose.
Now, as I face the vast, expensive, and contract-driven landscape of the United States, I am constantly asked how I will spend my resources and, more importantly, who I will challenge. I’ve had to wrestle with the pressure of "rational" business decisions—pure growth, high-cost marketing, and the cold separation of work and life. But I’ve learned that choices made only with the head often drain the heart. I refuse to reject my deeper dreams for the sake of simple expansion.
The Digital Path Forward
In the U.S., we are carving a path that aligns my heart with my mindset. Because it is a challenge to ask someone to read a 100,000-character book to understand our soul, we chose a digital introduction: a "Founder’s Story" video to explain our background to the world. Filming this in New York, traveling to nine iconic locations with a dedicated crew, felt like a true collaboration.
