Syed Yasir Alam, founder of Bangladesh-based premium clothing brand FIERO, has been selected for the South and Central Asia Professional Fellows Program (PFP) on Economic Empowerment, sponsored by the US Department of State.
A total of 22 participants were selected from more than 4,000 applicants across Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Six of the selected fellows are from Bangladesh. Entrepreneurs and professionals from different sectors were chosen through a multi-stage evaluation and interview process.
The programme is implemented by the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Oklahoma, with the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED) at BRAC University serving as its partner in Bangladesh.
As part of the programme, participants will take part in professional training, leadership development, workplace experiences and cultural exchange activities in Washington, DC, and Oklahoma. They will also gain insights into the US business environment and opportunities to build international professional networks.
Commenting on his selection, Yasir said, “Being selected for this programme is an honour for me. I see it not only as a personal achievement but also as an opportunity to showcase the potential of Bangladeshi entrepreneurs on the international stage. My goal is to learn from the US business environment, exchange experiences and build long-term professional relationships.”
Founded in 2017 through a home-service tailoring model, FIERO specialises in bespoke, made-to-measure and customised clothing. The company serves both domestic and international customers. Its future plans include expanding into international markets, developing technology-driven services and establishing global partnerships.
In addition to the fellowship, Yasir has been invited as a guest speaker at Oklahoma State University. He is scheduled to deliver a talk titled “Beyond Manufacturing: Design, Innovation & Global Perspectives from Bangladesh”, focusing on the country’s fashion industry, design, innovation and the potential for building homegrown brands. He will also participate in a separate discussion session on fashion entrepreneurship.
Following the fellowship, Yasir plans to apply the knowledge and experience gained in the United States to FIERO’s business operations and explore opportunities for the brand’s international expansion.