What inspired Prime Bank to launch Neera as a dedicated banking proposition for women?

Neera was born from a simple realisation that women need an ecosystem, not isolated products. While women comprise 52% of Bangladesh’s population, their labour force participation remains only 37%, largely due to structural gaps in access to finance and asset ownership. Closing this gap unlocks national economic potential. Global research shows that advancing women’s economic participation accelerates GDP growth, and women reinvest up to 90% of their income into their families, creating a multiplier effect for social resilience. Empowering women, therefore, is not only a social responsibility; it is a strategic growth imperative. At Prime Bank, we recognise that women’s aspirations evolve across life stages — from students and professionals to entrepreneurs, homemakers, and seniors planning their legacy. Each stage carries distinct financial, emotional, and lifestyle needs. Neera was designed around this complete life cycle, serving women across socio-economic segments with relevance and empathy. Importantly, Neera goes beyond traditional banking to embrace holistic lifestyle improvement, integrating financial solutions with mental health support, physical well-being, leadership development, networking, and everyday convenience. True empowerment is multidimensional: when women progress in their financial, professional, and personal lives, families thrive, lifestyles improve, and economies strengthen. Neera represents Prime Bank’s strategic commitment to enabling that transformation.

What motivated Prime Bank to introduce the EV two-wheeler benefit for Neera customers?

Mobility drives opportunity and empowerment. In Bangladesh, many working women face commuting challenges that directly impact productivity and safety. Limited access to safe and reliable transport remains a practical barrier contributing to the 37% participation rate. Homemakers also have significant mobility demands — from school runs to household management — yet many remain dependent on others. Research consistently shows that improved access to safe mobility increases women’s workforce participation, income-generating capacity, autonomy, and quality of life. The EV two-wheeler benefit under Neera focuses on safety and independence through secure commuting; practical empowerment for work commutes, school drop-offs, daily errands, and household management; and sustainable progress by promoting environmentally responsible mobility aligned with Prime Bank’s green finance commitment. This initiative goes beyond vehicle financing — it expands access to opportunity and strengthens women’s participation in everyday life, improving both lifestyle convenience and personal freedom.



How does Prime Bank build a workplace culture that truly empowers women?

Empowerment must be structural, not symbolic. At Prime Bank, we focus on merit-based, role-driven leadership pathways supported by mentorship and sponsorship. This includes leadership development programmes, flexible and inclusive policies, and a safe, respectful, performance-driven environment. Our Diversity & Inclusion team works to ensure equity and belonging while reinforcing accountability and progression into decision-making roles. Culture is defined by tone from the top and consistent action. Inclusion is embedded in how we recruit, develop, and promote our people. At Prime Bank, talent — regardless of gender — has equal opportunity to lead.

As a senior leader at Prime Bank, how do you inspire the next generation of women professionals?

Inspiration begins with consistent action. Young women need to see leadership demonstrated through real decisions, accountability, and tangible outcomes — not just words. I encourage them to invest in continuous learning, seek mentorship, and build the confidence to own their voice. Resilience defines leadership. I strongly advocate for sponsorship to ensure talented women are strategically positioned for meaningful opportunities. I advise the next generation to own outcomes, not just responsibilities. Never leave a commitment incomplete — because at leadership levels, your performance shapes institutional trust and opens or closes doors for those who follow. Organisations rely on credibility, and credibility is built through consistent delivery. When women witness action and experience opportunity firsthand, they begin to redefine what is possible. My philosophy remains simple: lift as you rise — because when one woman moves forward, she creates space for many more to follow.

What does the 2026 International Women’s Day theme #GiveToGain mean to you personally and professionally?

#GiveToGain reflects a powerful truth — giving creates lasting value. When institutions give opportunity, trust, and access, they gain innovation, loyalty, and sustainable growth. When women are equipped with the tools to thrive, organisations perform better and economies grow stronger. Personally, #GiveToGain reminds me that empowering women is both a responsibility and a strategy. Each time we mentor, support, or create pathways for women, we help shape a future where more women rise, lead, and transform communities. Professionally, it reinforces Prime Bank’s belief that inclusion drives long-term value creation for the nation. When we give support, systems, and confidence, we gain stronger leaders, stronger communities, and a stronger nation.