Sonia Khatun from Lokkhikhola, Dacope Upazila, shares her remarkable journey in fisheries. Being born into a society where gender roles are strictly defined, Sonia and her sister found themselves engaged in various tasks alongside their father, as they lacked a brother.

In their community, traditional norms dictated that women's economic engagement was limited to government or non-government jobs, leaving little room for exploration in other sectors. However, Sonia refused to conform to these limitations and envisioned a different path for herself and her community.

Determined to break free from societal constraints, Sonia, along with 24 other members of her community, established a Community-Based Organization (CBO) to venture into fish farming. With support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and the Department of Fisheries, they embarked on this journey, overcoming cultural barriers.

Embracing the opportunity, Sonia participated in training programs focused on climate change and its impact on the fisheries and aquaculture sector. These sessions not only equipped her with extensive knowledge but also instilled confidence in her abilities. Additionally, she underwent training in leadership skills and gender dynamics, empowering her to lead effectively in a male-dominated field.

Through perseverance and dedication, Sonia emerged as a confident leader in fish farming, challenging stereotypes and inspiring other women in her community to pursue their aspirations. Today, she stands as a beacon of hope, proving that with determination and support, women can thrive in any field they choose.