Anamika Bhakta is currently working as Executive Vice President (EVP) in one of the leading mobile operators in Bangladesh, Robi Axiata Ltd. (A subsidiary of Axiata group based in Malaysia). She is also a Senior Member of IEEE and is serving as Chair of Women in Engineering (WIE) Affinity Group of IEEE Bangladesh section. Anamika Bhakta completed her undergraduate degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) and MBA from North South University, majoring in Finance.

With 19 years of extensive regulatory knowledge and experience in Telecommunication policy and regulation, Anamika is a highly acclaimed expert in promoting sustainable telecom regulatory framework. Earlier in her career, as a pioneering member of Telecommunication Regulatory Commission, Anamika had the unique experience of participating in different policy and regulatory issues concerning the country. Prior to that, she started her career with Citycell. As a telecom professional, Anamika combines a high degree of specialization with a clear and pragmatic approach when dealing with the challenges faced by both, the Organization, as well as the Regulator and the Governments.

She is a strong advocate for adoption of global best practices in the country’s telecom sector to chart a path for long term development of the Telecom sector. She has been recognized as “Axiata Champion”- the highest recognition within Axiata Group, for her exceptional performance. Anamika Bhakta is blessed with two beautiful daughters and a loving life partner.

Questions & Answers with Anamika Bhakta

What is your specific area of STEM?

I am an Electrical and Electronic Engineer. Over the last 19 years, I have been intimately involved with the rise of the telecom sector in Bangladesh. That’s why, the quest for sustainable development of the Telecom sector that benefits the country and people, is deeply ingrained in me.

When did you first become interested in tech and was there a moment where you knew you were going to be a (computer programmer/ Professor / Network engineer/ etc.)?

I have always been quite adventurous from my early age. It was largely because of my doting father that I never felt I had to constrain myself just because I was a woman. So, as a woman, I never felt like an alien in the tech industry as embracing challenge comes naturally to me.

How would you explain your STEM field to young girls?

It is constantly evolving. The telecom industry started with offering basic connectivity services, gradually it has expanded into offering data services, and now we are in a situation where the industry is on a path to completely reinvent itself by offering wide ranging digital lifestyle solutions. So with rapid changes in technology, ample opportunities are being created to demonstrate their skills and prove their worth to the world. I would strongly urge all the young girls and my fellow women not to miss these opportunities.

What traits might a child possess that may indicate an interest or aptitude for your STEM field?

I think the fundamental trait is the level of curiosity, creativity and the knack for solving problems in a structured way that gives out a clear indication that a child is well poised for my kind of STEM field. The other thing is that aside from the technical know-how, one needs to know how to work in a team, to collaborate with people of different backgrounds.

Why did you choose your STEM field? Were you inspired by someone?

I always had a special affection for Math. Besides, my father was also an Engineer and I always wanted to be like him. So, I suppose you can say it runs in my family. So, choosing STEM was always going to be natural progression for me, I think.

What is the biggest challenge you face as a woman in STEM?

I think I am going to surprise you on this; the answer to your question is NONE. May be hard to believe for some, but it’s the reality. Because, “Mindset” is much more important here. If I believe in my ability and have the confidence, I can do any kind of work. I have never seen any work “as a challenge”, rather considered it as a new opportunity to learn and grow as an individual.

Do you still see sexism and discrimination in the workplace?

It’s quite common to hear that woman are facing challenges in the workplace. But, believe it or not, I had never felt that I faced discrimination for being a woman in the last 19 years of my career. My focus has always been on being fully committed to my work, working hard with sincerity, playing active role for contribution- I believe the recognition comes as a natural consequence. I think we should not bother about what the others say about us, rather focus on what we want to achieve in life and work towards it diligently.

What is Anamika's life like in 2025?

Let me put it this way, if I can inspire young women into the STEM field, I think I would be very happy with my life.

What inspirational message would you give young girls to inspire them to pursue STEM?

First of all, forget about the fact that you are a woman. Think of yourself as a human being who has endless potential to solve problems using the power of science and technology. Remember, science and technology has no gender; all you need is a positive frame of mind and strong believe in your abilities. The society will start making room for you, rather than the opposite.