BEHIND THE LENS WITH MODEL SEHAR GOHAR
MODEL-OFF-DUTY
There are times when you plan certain aspects of your future and then there is destiny. Destiny has truly played a positive part in Sehar’s modelling journey who rather had other plans for her future. In an exclusive conversation, the green-eyed beauty, Sehar Gohar, fills us in on her unplanned journey as a successful fashion model. Read on…
‘Believe me I had no idea that I’ll step into modelling, never intended to. I was looking forward to pursue a career in designing’
Hi Sehar, before we learn about your professional life as a model, tell us a bit about yourself - your education, where you grew up etc.
I grew up in a very loving household in Sialkot. As long as I remember, I was an introvert and quite a daydreamer. Completed my A-Level’s from The City School then moved to Lahore in order to pursue Fashion Design at PIFD (Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design). I’ve never looked back since then.
When did you tap into the modelling industry? Was it always something you saw yourself pursing or did you have other plans?
Believe me I had no idea that I’ll step into modelling, never intended to. I was looking forward to pursue a career in designing. It started off when my peers at university made me realise I had the features, physique and height of a model and should give it a shot but I would simply brush it off until I actually began to get modelling opportunities. So, I dived upon this chance for fun. Initially, the plan was to k e e p m o d e l l i n g a s p a r t - t i m e . Nevertheless, I embraced it completely after my graduation.
‘Our industry still lacks professionalism in a lot of aspects. Pay cheque delays, inadequate working conditions, no set working hours, onset management issues etc. We as an industry really need a code of conduct for things to fall into place’
If you get the opportunity, do you have any plans to test the waters in acting?
Living on the mantra of ‘go with the flow’ so, will most definitely give it a shot if the project is good. I am all up for the challenge.
‘My style reflects comfort and at the same time accentuates my femininity in the most simplistic manner’
Pros and cons of working in Pakistan’s modelling industry? What can be done to improve?
According to me, the pros are: First, the immense amount of recognition that working in the modelling industry provides; one among our country’s most celebrated creatives, artists, brands, designers etc. You get to work and meet so many amazing and talented individuals. Secondly, you’ve the liberty to be your own boss, unlike a traditional job. Third, one gets to travel a lot, explore different locations that you probably wouldn’t have discovered otherwise.
And for cons, our industry still lacks professionalism in a lot of aspects. Pay cheque delays, inadequate working conditions, no set working hours, on-set management issues etc. We as an industry really need a code of conduct for things to fall into place.
In this New Year, what advice are you taking with you and what are you leaving behind in 2022?
The advice that I’m taking with me to 2023 is to have complete faith in God’s plans. Let go of all the anxiety of the future and just cherish the joys of the present. I’m leaving behind in 2022 all the unfinished chapters that did not serve and were not meant for me only to rewrite the stars with utmost gratitude and optimism.
Modelling can be really hectic with back-to-back shoots and long hours on set. How do you achieve that work-life balance?
I really enjoy the thrill of it. I absolutely love the routine of waking up, going to a shoot, getting my hair and makeup done, striving to complete the shoot on time, coming back home tired - only to do it all over again the next morning and yet manage to make plans to spend time with family and friends after shoots. It feels like everyday is a new challenge to me. You’ve got to hustle to make it.
‘I would like to explore different opportunities in the fashion and entertainment industry’
How would you describe your fashion sense and what do you think sets you apart from other models?
I prefer my comfort. My style reflects comfort and at the same time accentuates my femininity in the most simplistic manner. I think everyone is unique in their own way but, what sets me apart is the confidence, ease and grace with which I wear my skin. My style stands out because it resonates with my personality.
What has been the most memorable moment of your career, so far?
It was definitely my debut on ramp for Fahad Hussayn. I was extremely excited to walk the ramp for the very first time. In my head I was thinking, ‘This is my moment.’
What are your career goals over the next five years? Over the next five years,
I hope to continue to put my best foot forward. I would like to explore different opportunities in the fashion and entertainment industry. Produce quality work, stay competitive, work hard, and be humble along the way.
Where do you see yourself in three years?
I hope to see myself grateful, independent and more successful in the next three years.
INTERVIEW: SAFA ADNAN
STYLING & ART DIRECTION: 9SOLUTIONS
HAIR & MAKEUP: SHAINAL PERVAIZ
PHOTOGRAPHY: DAUD MALIK
STUDIO: COURTESY SAAD AMJAD