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Exploring Life & Business with Christina Islam of Banglez Bazar

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Islam. 

Hi Christina, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m excited to be here, thank you for having me.

My story began with a passion to support Artisans in many countries, starting with Bangladesh. This journey allowed me to see the unique indigenous-designed accessories and exquisite home-decor by these talented Artisans.

I purchased their beautiful findings and the earnings that the Artisans received went towards their education, artisan supplies and basic needs. I shared these designs with family and friends here in the states and received such overwhelming responses which allowed me to tell the story of my unique journey.

In 2005, Banglez Bazar was started while continuing to support Artisans. By working with them, I was able to purchase items for my company and pass on the savings to customers. I also learned jewelry-making techniques that so inspired me to create my own line, along with receiving encouragement from my good friend Sonia who is an exceptional jewelry designer here in the states. Ten years later my company Banglez Bazar has grown and evolved creating my own line of exquisite pearl and gemstone statement jewelry. I was inspired to create a collection that gave women an experience, not just a piece to wear. We want the best for our customer’s special occasion and casual wear. Our goal is to inspire women to step out of the box or traditional jewelry and embrace statement jewelry with global influence.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Building a business has its challenges, it wasn’t a smooth road in the beginning. My most challenging time was getting started, trying to advertise to people who didn’t know my brand at the time.

But it gets easier the longer you are in the business and network with other business owners in the same industry. Just stick with it and ask questions.

As you know, we’re big fans of Banglez Bazar. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
We would like our customers/shoppers to know that we are a brand that is not just about creating, designing statement jewelry, accessories, and carry home décor, but we also believe in giving back to the community. 

When a customer purchases from us, 7% is donated to the nonprofits we list on our website. One of the charities that some of our customers resonate with is Boss Up Culture, by Founder Christin Peeples. This amazing nonprofit was started in West Bloomfield, Michigan to bring awareness, eradicate, and prevent the epidemic of bullying abuse in the workplace. They provide support from legal help to license professional counseling and more. I would encourage anyone to go to the website and read or video Christin’s story.

What I’m most proud about my brand is that we just don’t sell, but we want our customers to have an experience when they wear our products and know that every purchase is making a difference in someone’s life. 

Banglez Bazar is known for creative designs and quality work

Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I’m working on expanding our customer base to the U.K. and would love to see women wearing Banglez Bazar genuine pearls and gemstones on the streets of London

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