On 22 September 2025 we marked the official launch of Phase 2 of Oporajita Collective Impact on the Future of Work in Bangladesh. a milestone in our shared journey to empower women in Bangladesh’s Ready-Made Garments (RMG) sector.
Initiated by the H&M Foundation and co-funded by Sweden and COS, with The Asia Foundation as the backbone organization, Oporajita is a first-of-its-kind collective impact initiative in Bangladesh, driving systems-level change through collaboration with multiple partner organizations.
Figure 1 Zahedul Amin Managing Director at LightCastle Partners Signing at the Launching Event of Phase 2
The launch event brought together partners, Steering Committee members, and funders, featuring remarks from Kazi Faisal Bin Seraj (Country Representative, The Asia Foundation Bangladesh), Nayoka Martinez-Bäckström (First Secretary & Deputy Head of Development Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden), and Charlotte Brunnström (Program Director, H&M Foundation). Presentations by Ainee Islam (Program Director, The Asia Foundation) and Diana Puentes (Project Manager, H&M Foundation) outlined the vision and roadmap for Phase 2.
Participants also explored interactive booths, showcasing achievements from Phase 1 and unveiling ambitious plans for the next phase of action.
As the RMG industry navigates shifts in global trade, sustainability regulations, Fourth Industrial Revolution and climate adaptation, Oporajita remains committed to ensuring a just transition for women workers, equipping them with the skills, resilience, and opportunities to thrive at work, at home, and in their communities. Phase 2 builds on the strong foundation of Phase 1, reinforcing our collective vision for gender equality, climate resilience, and future-ready skills.
At LightCastle Partners, we are proud to continue contributing through policy advocacy, collaboration, and dialogue. Under Oporajita, our initiative Bunon 2030—launched in 2023, carries forward the mission to empower women RMG workers.
At its core, Phase 2 centers on two strategic themes:
These priorities are critical to ensuring the long-term resilience, competitiveness, and inclusivity of the industry.
In this phase, LightCastle will continue to play a pivotal role by:
Here’s to collaboration, resilience, and a stronger future for women in Bangladesh’s RMG sector!
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