Mrs. Rokia Afzal Rahman was a pioneering entrepreneur, visionary leader, and one of the most influential figures in Bangladesh’s business and development landscape. She made history as the first woman bank manager in Bangladesh, at a time when female leadership in finance was extremely rare globally.
After an accomplished early career in banking, she transitioned into entrepreneurship and, in 1980, established R.R. Cold Storage Limited, laying the foundation for a diversified business empire. Her ventures expanded across multiple sectors including agro-processing, media, finance, real estate, insurance, and power.
She served as the Chairman of Arlinks Group and R.R. Group, and played key leadership roles in prominent organizations. She was Chairperson of Mediaworld Limited (owning company of The Daily Star) and held directorships in several leading institutions, including MIDAS Financing Limited, Mediastar Limited (Prothom Alo), and Ayna Broadcasting Corporation (ABC Radio).
Mrs. Rahman also contributed significantly to national policy and governance. She served as an Adviser (Minister) to the Caretaker Government of Bangladesh in 2001, and was a Board Member of Bangladesh Bank. She was the President of the Bangladesh Employers’ Federation (BEF) and former President of the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Dhaka. She also held the position of Vice President of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Bangladesh.
Beyond business, her legacy is deeply rooted in social development and women’s empowerment. She was the Founder President of the Bangladesh Federation of Women Entrepreneurs (BFWE) and also founded the Women Entrepreneurs Association (WEA) and Women in Small Enterprises (WISE). Through these initiatives, she empowered thousands of women across Bangladesh to become financially independent entrepreneurs.
Her commitment to inclusive development extended to her roles with leading organizations such as BRAC, MRDI, DNET, and Banchte Shekha, where she worked to uplift underprivileged communities and promote sustainable development.
Mrs. Rokia Afzal Rahman also served as the Chairman of Presidency University, contributing to the advancement of higher education in Bangladesh.
Throughout her distinguished career, she received numerous national and international awards in recognition of her contributions to business, leadership, and social impact.
Mrs. Rahman’s life stands as a testament to courage, innovation, and service. Her visionary leadership continues to inspire Arlinks Group and future generations to pursue sustainable growth, inclusive development, and excellence.
