Chapter3: Nazeda FixedRush Dreams | Books | 52572

The birth of Nazeda FixedRush Couriers was not just the inception of a business; it was the manifestation of a dream that combined my love for cycling, poetry, and community. The idea sprouted amidst the bustling streets of Chittagong, a city teeming with life, energy, and endless possibilities. What started as a simple thought during a serene ride along Patenga Beach soon grew into a vibrant, purposeful endeavour that brought together the city’s vibrant culture and my vision for meaningful connection. The inspiration struck during one of my favourite weekend routines—a leisurely ride along the coastline. The salty breeze, the rhythmic crashing of the waves, and the sight of fishing boats dotting the horizon had always been a source of solace and creativity. On that particular day, as I observed the chaotic yet beautiful harmony of Chittagong’s streets, the idea of Nazeda FixedRush Couriers began to take shape. What if cycling could solve the city’s delivery challenges? And what if every delivery carried more than just a package—what if it carried a story, a poem, or a piece of joy? Thus, the concept of Nazeda FixedRush was born. The name “Nazeda” (a tribute in the name of my father and mother) was deeply personal. It reflected grace, resilience, and the quiet strength of someone who had inspired me profoundly. “FixedRush” represented the simplicity and efficiency of fixed-gear bicycles, the heart and soul of my operation. Together, the name symbolized purposeful movement, meaningful connections, and a commitment to sustainability. Chittagong, with its hilly terrain and dense traffic, was both a challenge and an opportunity. Starting a courier business here required resourcefulness and determination. I began with just my own bike—a sturdy fixed-gear model—and a stack of hand-designed flyers that I distributed in local cafés, small shops, and community centres. These flyers highlighted what made my service unique: every delivery would include a handwritten poem. The first customer was a small florist near GEC Circle. They needed a last-minute delivery for a bouquet to a wedding party across town. With the bouquet carefully strapped to my bike and a freshly written poem tucked alongside it, I set off. The joy on the recipient’s face when they discovered the poem was unforgettable. That moment validated my idea and gave me the confidence to expand. The early days were far from smooth. Chittagong’s steep hills tested my physical endurance, while the unpredictable monsoon rains often turned deliveries into drenched adventures. Navigating the busy streets of Agrabad and Chawk Bazar, dodging rickshaws and buses, required both skill and patience. Yet, these challenges became opportunities to innovate and adapt. One evening, a delivery to a student hostel in the remote corners of Foy’s Lake proved particularly memorable. The package contained a care box from a worried mother to her son, filled with homemade snacks and a heartfelt note. I added my own touch—a poem about home and longing. The student’s emotional response reminded me that Nazeda FixedRush was about more than logistics; it was about bridging distances and delivering emotions. As the word spread, demand for my services grew. It became clear that I couldn’t handle everything alone. I reached out to the cycling community in Chittagong, connecting with enthusiasts who shared my passion for biking and purpose. The team that emerged was diverse—students, artists, and even a retired teacher who saw the potential of my vision. Morning briefings at a local tea stall became rituals where we planned routes, shared customer stories, and bonded over cups of steaming chai. One of the earliest recruits was a young woman named Ayesha, who had a love for poetry and a talent for navigating the city’s complex streets. Her contributions extended beyond deliveries; she began writing some of the poems that accompanied the packages, infusing them with a unique perspective. Together, the team became the lifeblood of Nazeda FixedRush, embodying its values and spreading its mission. What truly set Nazeda FixedRush apart was the inclusion of poetry. Every delivery came with a handwritten verse, tailored to the occasion. A box of sweets from a confectioner near Anderkilla Bazaar might include a playful limerick, while a book from a local bookstore in Kazir Dewri. These poems added a layer of personalization that customers cherished. Social media became a powerful tool for sharing these moments. Customers began posting pictures of the poems, tagging Nazeda FixedRush, and sharing their stories. The feedback was overwhelming. People spoke of how the poems brightened their day, brought them comfort, or added a special touch to their celebrations. This growing community of admirers became an integral part of the brand’s journey. Nazeda FixedRush was more than a courier service—it was a movement. I organized events that reflected the city’s vibrant culture, like group cycling tours through the scenic Kaptai hills and poetry readings at local landmarks like the historic DC Hill Park. These gatherings fostered a sense of community and connected people from different walks of life. One of the most memorable events was “Cycling with Verses,” a citywide ride that ended with a poetry slam at CRB Hill. Cyclists from across Chittagong joined, sharing their love for words and wheels. The event highlighted the power of art and movement to unite people and create lasting memories. Running a small business in Chittagong was not without its hurdles. Financial sustainability was a constant challenge. There were times when I had to rely on personal savings or borrow from friends to keep operations running. Larger courier companies with more resources often overshadowed smaller players. The COVID-19 pandemic brought its own set of challenges. Lockdowns and restrictions disrupted operations, but instead of halting, I adapted. Deliveries shifted to essentials, and the poems took on themes of hope and resilience. Customers appreciated the effort, and many expressed their gratitude for the sense of normalcy and connection that Nazeda FixedRush provided during uncertain times. Today, Nazeda FixedRush Couriers stands as a symbol of creativity, resilience, and community spirit. It has become a beloved part of Chittagong’s cultural fabric, inspiring others to think differently about business and connection. The brand’s success is a testament to the power of dreams and the impact of small, meaningful gestures. Looking ahead, my vision extends beyond Chittagong. My dream of bringing Nazeda FixedRush to other cities in Bangladesh, each with its own unique character and challenges. The goal is to inspire a network of cyclists, poets, and changemakers who believe in the power of sustainable movement and heartfelt connection. The journey of Nazeda FixedRush Couriers is far from over. It is a story that continues to unfold with every pedal stroke, every poem, and every package delivered. It is a testament to the idea that even the simplest dreams, when pursued with passion and perseverance, can create ripples of change that extend far beyond their origins.