Sayem Faruk

2014: Co-founded Revel

At 21, I started Revel with a few school friends. It was an e-commerce and retail venture selling export-surplus merchandise.

29 Jun

2013: Became a speed eating champion

My love for food made me a speed eating champion at my college.

12 May

2012: Got into IBA

Getting into IBA, University of Dhaka was a turning point - the acceptance rate was just 1.2%. It opened

12 Feb

2010: Moved to Dhaka, the capital

At 17, I left for Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, with one suitcase and a head full of dreams. Stayed

20 Aug

2010: Completed GCE A Levels

I’d always been a slightly above-average student, but during my GCEs, I finally realized learning could be fun. Ended

30 Jan

2008: Made my first website

At 16, I built my first website - a chaotic mix of wallpapers, ringtones, and, let’s say, questionably licensed

01 Jun

2005: Sold repaired computer parts

Started flipping repaired hard drives and trading CDs with friends. This was my first taste of business beyond the lunchbox

01 Jan

2000: Sold lunch to friends

At 7, I started my first “hustle” - selling my homemade lunch to friends in school. (Sorry, Mom!)

01 Jan

1997: Started kindergarten at BBIS

I joined BBIS, a small English-medium school where I met friends who’ve somehow stuck with me to this day.

15 Jan

1992: Born in Sylhet, Bangladesh

I was the youngest of three siblings, born into a joint family in Sylhet - a small town in northeastern

27 Sep