Shaila's 'Satej' Food Popularises Rural Snacks among City Dwellers

Her childhood dream was to get a government job or become a lawyer. After graduating from the National University, Shaila Akhand did not walk into that path anymore. Rather, she decided to popularise rural traditional snacks and thus she became an entrepreneur. Shaila's entrepreneurial career began in 2009.

Her food brand 'Satej' has introduced traditional local snacks like Murir Moya, Chirar Moya, Nimki, Murali, Manekka, Shahi Khurma, Badam (Almond) Papri, Badam (Almond) Tana, Til (Sesame) Papri, Til (Sesame) Tana, Coconut Naru, Til (Sesame) Naru, Various Pies, Shabe-Barat Halua, Packaged Spices and many more. Shaila also introduced different types of Baishakhi gift items for her buyers.

Shaila did not get any help or support from anyone to become an entrepreneur. “There are a lot of stories behind it, people around me and people in the family not being by my side, which was the biggest obstacle. Later, I was able to make them realize that I can do better and be a good entrepreneur,” said Shaila Akhand.

Although she did not get help from others in the family at the beginning, her husband has been a big inspiration since the beginning of her entrepreneurial career.

There are now 30-35 employees working with Shaila's Food Brand. Her online page's name is 'Satej'.

Shaila's products are available in various brand shops in Bangladesh, including Shwapno, Meena Bazar, CSD, Pran Daily Shopping, Best Buy, Trust Family Needs, Unimart, and Lazz Pharma. Her products are also available in the retail market.

Asked about her future plans, Shaila said, "I want the country's traditional snacks not to be lost. At the same time, I want to introduce and spread our products abroad."