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When Sumayeah arrived in Australia in 2016 to study for a Master of Engineering, she had clear career goals in mind—advancing in the engineering field. Originally from Bangladesh, she never imagined that her journey would take an unexpected turn toward entrepreneurship.
As she settled into life in Australia, Sumayeah faced challenges that went beyond academics. Adjusting to a new culture, navigating the complexities of the Australian job market, and understanding workplace norms presented difficulties she hadn’t anticipated. Tailoring job applications to meet Australian employers' expectations added to the struggle, and employment proved more challenging than she had expected.
Despite these challenges, Sumayeah remained determined to succeed. Along her journey, she discovered SisterWorks, a program that would ultimately change the course of her career. Through the Small Business program, Sumayeah found a platform that provided not only essential business development workshops but also the mentorship and resources she needed to start her own business, Thread Haven.
With SisterWorks’ support, Sumayeah gained vital skills in financial planning, marketing, and creating a sustainable business model. The program also connected her with a network of like-minded entrepreneurs and potential customers, fostering valuable collaborations and partnerships. But perhaps the most impactful aspect of her experience was the confidence-building support. The empowering environment at SisterWorks encouraged Sumayeah to take bold steps toward her entrepreneurial dreams while staying true to her values of sustainability and cultural preservation.
Thread Haven was born—a platform showcasing artisan craftsmanship and supporting female weavers from the northern regions of Bangladesh. Sumayeah’s vision was clear: she wanted to create a globally recognised brand that not only empowered women artisans but also promoted sustainable, culturally rich products. Her long-term aspirations include scaling her business, expanding into new product lines like Shatranji rugs, and reaching international markets.
Reflecting on her time at SisterWorks, Sumayeah speaks with gratitude about the lessons learned and the sense of community she experienced. “SisterWorks didn’t just provide me with business skills—it showed me the power of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of having a supportive network,” she shares. "I’ve learned to mentor others, stay true to my values of sustainability, and collaborate to grow my business. SisterWorks has provided me with the tools to dream bigger and take actionable steps. I’m excited to build a future that blends creativity, community, and impact.”
Sumayeah’s story demonstrates the transformative power of support, guidance, and community, showing that with the right tools, migrant and refugee women can turn their aspirations into successful ventures.
If you're a woman from a migrant, refugee, or asylum-seeker background and are ready to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey, we’re here to support you. Register today for SisterWorks' free Small Business program and start building your dream business.
Take the first step towards a brighter future with SisterWorks.