1. How did you land your first modelling job in Pakistan, and which brand gave you that first break?
I’m signed with 13 Models Management, an international agency that also has an office in Lahore. They handle all of my jobs, and my first job here was a campaign for Fazal Jewellers. That was actually my first billboard.
2. What was your first impression of Pakistan’s fashion industry?
I completely fell in love with Desi fashion and all the handmade dresses. I noticed pretty quickly that the industry isn’t very punctual, but people here have incredible creativity and vision, which makes it a dream to work with. The makeup artists here lack hygiene a bit, but luckily I’m easygoing.
3. Which designer or photographer has been a dream to work with?
I recently walked for BCW and got to wear so many incredible designers. My top favourites were Ali Xeeshan, Munib Nawaz, and HSY. The photographers I really like are Booray, FilmsbyBilal, and Hadia Khalid.
4. Do you have any rituals or routines before a shoot or runway show?
I have a lot of rituals and routines, though I often don’t wake up early enough to do all of them. I try to meditate, do breath work, maintain hygiene, drain and activate my lymphatic system, stretch, follow my skincare routine, and give my facial muscles a massage. Of course, I also have porridge and coffee on shoot days because it keeps me going for hours on set.
5. Your favourite Pakistani dish and dessert?
I’m obsessed with most dishes, but to name a few: paratha and chanay, haleem, and samosa. As for dessert, it would be falooda. I could eat it every day.
6. What does a typical day in your life as a model look like?
A typical day is 12 to 14 hours long and only enjoyable when the team is good. It’s a very exhausting and physical job, but I love it.
7. Everyone thinks modelling is all glamour and lights, but what’s the side most people don’t know?
If you want to be a good model, you have to look after your skin and body and make healthy choices, which takes discipline and work. I’m very tall, so my back suffers a lot, and the garments are super heavy. Standing on your feet all day, posing, and following directions correctly is a skill that takes practice. I get very hungry and tired, but you have to remain mentally and physically strong to give your best performance. Especially when the clothes are uncomfortable, you still have to make it look effortless.
8. What advice would you give to aspiring models trying to break into the industry?
Believe in yourself. That’s the most important thing. Rejection is part of it, so you have to remain confident regardless of people’s opinions and expectations. Never give up, especially if you know you want to pursue it as a career. Study top models, practice in the mirror, and enjoy the journey. Struggle is part of it, but it’s worth every bit if it’s your passion. Practice self-love daily and remove all negative self-talk, as that will make you successful faster.
9. Any personal or professional goals for 2026?
My goal is to be an international supermodel by next year. I’m only getting started, but I believe I can do it.
10. If you could describe the previous year in one word, what would it be?
This year was based on faith, the unknown, and trial and error. I’m so glad I listened to my intuition because it was my only guide to success.
Interview: Safa Adnan
Photo: BROWN BOY PHOTOGRAPHY