In conversation with Kazi Rubaiya Islam, Corporate and Media Relations Lead at JT International (JTI) Bangladesh Limited, on her career trajectory, navigating challenges in corporate affairs and communications, and her philosophy on empowerment.
How did you transition from corporate affairs to your current role in external communications at JTI?
My transition from corporate affairs to external communications was a natural progression, built on my experience of managing diverse stakeholders and navigating intricate regulatory complexities. My professional journey began with multiple roles in corporate affairs and communications, including roles focused on public relations in dynamic organisations. With a knack for transparent, simple and meaningful storytelling, my roles naturally ingrained in me the aptness to external communications. At JTI, I have had the privilege of working closely with numerous government and non-government bodies, business associations, and experts, which significantly sharpened my skills in negotiation, strategic planning, and analysis. Leading critical multi-stakeholder projects with significant reputational and value-chain impacts consistently highlighted to me the value of transparency, agility, and tailored communication in building trust. These principles resonate deeply with my personal values as well. Driven by crafting impactful communication, I believe my diverse experiences have uniquely prepared me to contribute meaningfully to my current role.
Corporate and Media Relations Lead
Corporate Affairs & Communications
JT International Bangladesh Limited
Having achieved remarkable success at a young age, what key obstacles did you encounter along the way, and how did you navigate these challenges?
While I appreciate the sentiment, I view my journey as one of continuous growth and learning. Naturally, every journey has its challenges. One of the most significant for me has been finding the delicate balance between being assertive and approachable, especially in high-stakes discussions that have significant impacts on reputation, economy and community as a whole. It’s vital to ensure your perspective is heard, but equally important to do so with empathy and respect. I am incredibly grateful to the mentors, colleagues, and my family who have guided me to find a balance.
Another key challenge has been maintaining a healthy work-life integration. My roles have consistently been demanding, and managing personal milestones alongside a busy career requires careful orchestration. After getting married, I had to balance between various personal and professional demands simultaneously, requiring careful time management and a strong support system. I am deeply fortunate to have the unwavering support of my family and my loving partner, whose encouragement has been crucial in helping me navigate these competing priorities.
Additionally, my current employer values work-life balance and offers various initiatives such as flexible work arrangements, which has been incredibly helpful.
What initiatives has JTI implemented to foster innovation and inclusivity, particularly in supporting women?
Since joining JTI in 2019, I haven’t come to the office a single day being unhappy with the work culture I am in. To me, that speaks for itself. JTI’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity is deeply embedded in its culture. Recognising that everyone’s needs and wants are unique, JTI is committed to creating a workplace where every individual can thrive in their strengths and uniqueness. This commitment is reflected in our recognition as a ‘Top Global Employer’, where JTI strives to create a workplace that brings out the human best in everyone.
Specifically, when it comes to supporting women, JTI offers a comprehensive one-year paid maternity leave as well as paid paternal leave programs. Regular unconscious bias training is conducted to raise awareness of hidden biases among employees and leaders. This helps create a more equitable workplace environment by identifying and challenging biases. We continuously track ‘Gender Equal Pay’, and in Bangladesh, we maintain a ‘green’ status. Furthermore, JTI has received the global ‘Gender Equality Standard’ accreditation, reinforcing our dedication to creating an environment where women feel valued, heard, and respected.
FOR ME, FREEDOM AND EMPOWERMENT MEAN HAVING THE ABILITY TO MAKE CHOICES THAT ALIGN WITH ONE’S VALUES AND ASPIRATIONS WITHOUT UNDUE CONSTRAINTS. IT’S ABOUT ACTING INDEPENDENTLY, HAVING THE CONFIDENCE AND RESOURCES TO PURSUE ONE’S GOALS, AND POSITIVELY INFLUENCING ONE’S ENVIRONMENT.
How do empowered women and mentorship Programmes impact corporate culture?
When women are empowered and take on leadership roles, they become powerful role models. I have seen firsthand how this inspires others, particularly those starting their careers and aspiring to leadership positions themselves. It breaks down the outdated notion that certain roles aren’t meant for women. In traditionally male-dominated fields like corporate affairs, this is especially crucial.
I have always been a strong believer in the power of mentorship, and I have actively sought out mentors throughout my career, similarly being available to mentor those who came after me. JTI’s global internal and external mentorship programs, connecting women with senior experienced leaders, have been invaluable to my professional journey. It’s not just about having a mentor who shares your gender; it’s about having someone who champions your voice and guides you on how to make it heard.
I have had young women approach me, curious about how I navigate in corporate affairs. It’s not always about challenges; it’s about the unique experiences that shape and empower you. Empowered women bring unique perspectives and ideas, driving creativity and better decision-making. Ultimately, both mentorship and empowerment are essential for transforming corporate cultures, and as women thrive and influence corporate culture, they create a more supportive, collaborative, and empathetic environment, benefiting all employees and contributing to the overall success of the organisation.
What do freedom and empowerment mean to you?
For me, freedom and empowerment mean having the ability to make choices that align with one’s values and aspirations without undue constraints. It’s about acting independently, having the confidence and resources to pursue one’s goals, and positively influencing one’s environment.
While women are rightly praised for their strength and multitasking abilities, it’s equally important to recognise that perfection is not a requirement in every aspect of life. There should be no guilt associated with not being ‘the perfect one’ or making choices for yourself. True empowerment comes from embracing one’s strengths and imperfections and understanding that balance is key. When women are free and empowered, they can fully realise their potential and contribute more meaningfully to society.
Photographs by Shihab Mohammad
