BANGLADESH

ROKAIYA AHMED PURNA — RAP FASHION — BANGLADESH

Rokaiya Ahmed Purna is an acclaimed Bangladeshi fashion designer, creative visionary, educator, and cultural ambassador whose work represents the evolving identity of contemporary Bangladeshi fashion on the international stage.

With a distinctive design philosophy rooted in heritage, craftsmanship, and innovation, Purna masterfully bridges the richness of Bangladesh’s traditional textile culture with the sophistication of modern fashion.

 Her collections draw inspiration from exquisite indigenous textiles and artisanal traditions, including Jamdani, silk, khadi, Benarasi, and tribal fabrics, transforming them into contemporary expressions of elegance and cultural identity.

As the founder of Design in Bangladesh and Design in Global Foundation, Purna has dedicated her career to elevating Bangladeshi design, empowering creative communities, preserving traditional craftsmanship, and creating meaningful connections between local artisans and the global fashion industry.

Her work has been presented to international audiences through prestigious fashion events, exhibitions, and cultural initiatives, contributing to the growing global recognition of Bangladesh as a country of exceptional textile artistry and creative talent.

Purna’s vision extends beyond fashion. 

Through her work, she seeks to preserve cultural heritage while encouraging innovation, sustainability, and new opportunities for future generations of designers and artisans.

Her participation as the Official Representative of Bangladesh at the World Fashion Exhibition NYC 2026 places her among the international creative voices presenting the cultural richness and contemporary vision of Bangladesh to a global audience.

PROFESSIONAL CAREER

Rokaiya Ahmed Purna is an accomplished Bangladeshi fashion designer, textile professional, educator, and creative entrepreneur with an international career dedicated to promoting Bangladeshi design, craftsmanship, and textile heritage.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Textile Engineering from BGMEA University of Fashion & Technology (BUFT) and further developed her expertise through studies in product development at Saxion University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands.

Purna is the founder of Design in Bangladesh, Design in Global Foundation, and the RAP fashion label. Through these platforms, she has worked to connect Bangladeshi designers, artisans, traditional craftsmanship, and contemporary fashion with international markets and audiences.

Her professional trajectory includes participation in major international fashion platforms, including Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Russia and ID Fashion Week in Dunedin, New Zealand, where she was recognized as an emerging designer and received the Entrepreneurial Prize at the ID International Emerging Designer Awards.

Her work has received international recognition through several awards, including distinctions at the Denim & Jeans International Show and Wuhan International Fashion Week. Her designs and professional activities have also been featured in international fashion and textile media.

A strong advocate for the transition from “Made in Bangladesh” to “Designed in Bangladesh,” Purna has developed projects that combine innovation, sustainability, traditional textiles, and contemporary design. Her work with indigenous and artisan communities seeks to preserve cultural heritage while creating new opportunities within the global fashion industry.

Her participation in international cultural and creative initiatives, including the UNESCO Youth Forum, reflects her broader commitment to positioning Bangladeshi creativity and fashion as an influential force on the global stage.

Today, Rokaiya Ahmed Purna continues to develop her work as a designer, entrepreneur, educator, and international advocate for Bangladeshi fashion and textile heritage.

Official Representative of Bangladesh — World Fashion Exhibition NYC 2026.