HUM Network set a historic milestone with the 10th edition of HUM Awards, a spectacular celebration marking a decade of recognizing Pakistan’s finest entertainment talent. Sponsored by Cola Next and powered by Leather Galleria Luxury Furniture, the Awards were hosted at the NRG Arena in Houston, Texas.

Established in 2013, the HUM Awards have evolved into a hallmark of prestige, annually recognizing excellence across television, music, and fashion. Over ten transformative years, the event has grown from a local celebration into an international showcase, symbolizing the creative energy and resilience of Pakistan’s entertainment landscape, driven by the vision and dedication of the team behind it.

The red carpet was a scene of elegance and glamour, where Pakistan’s most beloved stars dazzled under the spotlight. Sajal Aly, Mahira Khan, Humayun Saeed, Kinza Hashmi, Ahad Raza Mir, and Mawra Hocane arrived in breathtaking couture, their looks ranging from timeless sophistication to bold contemporary flair. Each star brought their own signature charm, reflecting the creative diversity of Pakistan’s thriving fashion industry. Fans gathered in large numbers, their cheers echoing through the NRG Arena as they welcomed their favorite artists with infectious enthusiasm, creating an atmosphere that blended excitement, pride, and admiration.

The award show unfolded in multiple segments, each offering its own rhythm and flavor. The first segment, hosted by Mohib Mirza and Hareem Farooq, was marked by witty banter and lively energy. Soon after, the stage came alive with an enchanting dance performance by Shujaa Asad and Ramsha Khan, whose chemistry and synchronized movements drew loud applause. The momentum carried into the second segment, hosted by Hamza Sohail and Dananeer Mobeen, where their effortless charm and youthful energy added vibrancy to the proceedings.

Yasir Hussain later took over the stage with a comedy act that blended satire and spontaneity, interacting playfully with celebrities in the audience — a refreshing break that had everyone laughing. In the third segment, co-hosted by Asim Azhar and Hamza Sohail, the ‘Recognition Award’ was presented to Love Guru, accepted by Mahira Khan and Humayun Saeed. The much-anticipated trailer of Neelofer, starring Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan, was also unveiled to thunderous applause, sparking excitement for what promises to be a landmark film.

The night’s musical crescendo arrived with Ali Zafar’s electrifying performance — a seamless mix of energy, emotion, and artistry. His commanding stage presence captivated the audience, and when Ali Haider joined him as a surprise guest, the crowd erupted in delight. Together, they created a nostalgic yet exhilarating moment that perfectly captured the spirit of the evening.

As the night progressed, the spotlight shifted to the awards themselves. Ishq Murshid reigned supreme, sweeping multiple honors including ‘Best Drama’, ‘Best Actor (Popular)’ for Bilal Abbas Khan, and ‘Best On-Screen Couple’, affirming its place as one of the most influential dramas of the year. Sajal Aly’s emotionally charged performance in Zard Patton Ka Bunn earned her the ‘Best Actress (Popular and Jury) award, while Hania Aamir’s growing global impact was recognized with the ‘Global Star of the Year’ title — a testament to her expanding international fan base and her ability to represent Pakistan on a worldwide stage.

Adnan Siddiqui received the ‘HUM Special Golden Plate’, a heartfelt acknowledgment of his enduring contributions to the industry. His decades-long career has not only shaped television in Pakistan but also inspired a generation of emerging artists.

Adding to the night’s grandeur, Mehwish Hayat and Humayun Saeed delivered a colorful, high-energy dance performance. Their dynamic chemistry and polished choreography encapsulated the celebratory essence of the event, closing the entertainment segments on a euphoric note.

As the final segment concluded, Ramsha Khan and Yasir Hussain returned to host the closing moments, honoring the last set of winners and thanking the artists, organizers, and fans whose collective passion keeps the spirit of Pakistani entertainment alive.

When the curtain finally fell, the 10th HUM Awards stood as a reflection of ten years of perseverance, creativity, and unity. The evening was both nostalgic and forward-looking — celebrating the legends that built the industry and the young artists carrying its legacy into the future.

From Karachi to London, Toronto to Houston, every edition of the HUM Awards has captured the heart of Pakistan’s entertainment culture. This year’s milestone event not only honored artistic excellence but also reinforced HUM TV’s enduring mission: to spotlight Pakistani talent on the world stage and celebrate the power of storytelling that continues to define the nation’s creative identity. The night ended not just with applause, but also with a shared sense of pride — for a decade of brilliance and for the promise of many more to come.

The post A Scintillating Night – 10th HUM Awards 2025 appeared first on Glam Magazine.

Those who worked with her often spoke of her rare ability to bring out the best in others. She had a gift for mentoring, encouraging her colleagues to discover their potential and pursue meaningful work. Many who came under her influence went on to lead impactful lives, a testament to her nurturing presence.

Her legacy was celebrated at a gathering organized by Idara-i-Taleem-o-Agahi (ITA) and Pakistan learning Festival, where friends, colleagues and mentees paid rich tributes. ITA CEO Baela Raza Jamil remarked that “Zubeida Mustafa may have left, but not before showing the way to so many.”

Many renowned people who had gathered in remembrance of this brilliant person, spoke on the different aspects of her life and how she had impacted theirs.

Her journey was not without challenges. Born with a condition that required her to wear special shoes, and later struggling with hearing and eyesight difficulties, she nonetheless carried herself with unwavering determination. Her resilience was matched only by her work ethics. At Dawn, she wore many hats: writing daily editorials, producing weekly columns, managing the paper’s vast reference library, and editing its celebrated literary supplement, Books & Authors.

Her appointment as assistant editor marked a historic milestone — she was the first woman to hold such a senior position at Dawn. At a time when female representation in newsrooms was scarce, she carved a path that many others would follow. She often credited her editor, Ahmad Ali Khan, for supporting her professional journey, particularly when she balanced her career with raising children. His understanding approach enabled her to remain in the newsroom while tending to her family, a flexibility that allowed her to thrive in both roles.

Over the years, as more women entered journalism, many looked to Zubeida Mustafa as a guiding light. She generously mentored colleagues, offering advice and encouragement until her very last years.

After leaving Dawn in 2009 due to declining eyesight, she continued to make her voice heard through her writings. Her columns tackled critical issues such as health, education, human rights, and environmental challenges. The books she authored, along with the archive of her articles preserved at www.zubeida-mustafa.com, continue to serve as a resource and a reflection of her sharp intellect and compassionate outlook.

Her funeral brought together former mentees and colleagues, who gathered not in mourning alone but in gratitude for the values she embodied: integrity, perseverance, and the joy of meaningful work. Her influence endures in the countless lives she touched.

Centre of Excellence in Journalism (CEJ) also held a remembrance meeting with former colleagues and friends speaking at the gathering. Zubeida Mustafa’s sister, Dr. Fatima Jawwad talked about her earlier life on the occasion.

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HUM Network organized a Mehfil-e-Milad recently, at Pearl Continental Hotel, Karachi, to celebrate Eid Milad-un-Nabi – an event that provided an opportunity to the women employees as well as families and friends, to come together in an atmosphere of unity and devotion to strengthen their spiritual connections and honour the teaching of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The venue was thoughtfully decorated, featuring a beautifully adorned stage with elegant floral arrangements, where women naat-khawans, dressed in traditional attire, recited naats that impacted the audience with their beautiful and soulful rendering. The event began with a warm welcome by HUM Masala hosts Kiran Khan and Abeel Khan, who highlighted the significance of Eid Milad-un-Nabi—not only as a celebration of the Prophet’s birth but also as a reminder to embody his values of compassion, kindness, and justice in our daily lives.

The Mehfil featured inspiring naat recitations by Tahreem Muneeba, Talat Hashmi, Bushra Ansari, Samina Kamal, Maha Aslam, Sandiya, and Ayat Sheikh. A thoughtful bayan delivered by Khushbakht Shujaat encouraged attendees to strengthen their spiritual connection through reciting durood and seek Allah’s blessings through prayer and reflection.

The event was graced by Sultana Siddiqui, President, HUM Network, along with artists and media personalities such as Nosheen Shah, Sidra Iqbal, Nadia Hussain, Ghazal Siddiq, Amna Ilyas, Fauzia Aman, Masarrat Misbah, Irum Tanveer Odho, Saba Ansari, Angie Marshall and Seemi Pasha.

HUM Masala chefs Shireen Anwar, Rida Aftab, and Samina Jaleel were also present. The event concluded with a heartfelt dua led by Talat Hashmi, followed by a high tea that provided an opportunity for discussion and conversation.

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A fashion segment highlighting the sartorial designs of unisex designer Zubair Shah and his all-white puritanical collection with its avant-garde design sensibilities, was elevated when he joined forces with the iconic Masarrat Misbah’s Depilex Smile Again Foundation to put the spotlight on acid burn survivors and their path to recovery overcoming personal challenges, familial constraints and social taboos. They stood tall as spokespersons for the DSF as ambassadors for their cause, to a standing ovation.

While the night belonged to the DSF survivors, others also made their mark with their contributions to the fashion. Bridal couturiers were aplenty with Mahi’s, Ramsha Iqbal, K. Yousuf and Lubna Mudassir all carving their niche on the fashion runway. While their sensibilities varied, what united them was their expression in design, eye for colours and choice of embellishments, and experimentation with newer trends in cuts and silhouettes.

In another distinctly iconic moment, actress and host Nadia Khan’s daughter Alizeh made her debut as a fashion model on the Runway SS’25 ramp for debutant bridal designer Ramsha Bilal. But they were not alone in their declaration that night as fashion students of the Millennium Institute of Technology and Entrepreneurship (MITE), budding young designers displayed their full potential in brilliantly sculptured costumes on sociopolitical themes brinking on the bizarre and outlandishly insane.

Sheema Kermani performing to an exclusive recording of Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s Dasht-e-Tanhai was the piece de resistance when it comes to dance performances, with the dance troupe of the trio of Naina Black, Yoshua Hussain and Shehzore Akhtar coming in a very close second with their performance to Khamaj by Shafqat Amanat Ali. Singer Syed Hasaan gave his vocal performance after the dance.

Walking away after the event suddenly made one hit the realisation that fashion outing was spiritually wholesome and uplifting, irrespective of the minor glitches.

The show had a double runway, giving a unique look, though one has to train the audience to sit and not move about during the models’ catwalk. Though there were minor glitches, the effort put in by the organisers was obvious and very commendable.

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1. Your home reflects a sense of careful planning and intentional design. Could you share what inspired that vision and how you brought it to life?
A: From the very beginning, we envisioned a home filled with light and openness. That’s why we designed a central courtyard with a ficus tree at its heart, surrounded by rooms on different levels so that every space felt connected yet private too. My husband, being a doctor, needed a study that was bright and uplifting, so we placed it alongside our master bedroom on one level, while the children’s rooms were on another. We also added a drawing room and guest room to ensure privacy for everyone, and later, a home theatre to bring the family together. Both of us love gardening, so we left ample space for a large garden and chose a maintenance-free pink stone for the exterior. Even after 30 years, it has required no work, which was a blessing. Our architects were very skilled — one was also an engineer — and they designed the house to be both strong and practical. Through decades of rain and weather, we’ve never had leaks, flooding, or major structural problems. Their thoughtful planning gave us a home that has stood beautifully and gracefully over time.

2. What are the other distinctive highlights of your home?
A: What I treasure most is how almost every room overlooks the garden. That connection to greenery makes the house feel alive. The garden itself is not manicured in the traditional sense; it has a natural, slightly wild quality that we deliberately maintain. Over the years, the trees we planted have grown tall and majestic, becoming more striking than the house itself. There’s one tree in particular. it was only a few hundred rupees when we bought it, that has grown into something truly remarkable, standing proudly in front of the house. Later, we added a treehouse, which has become a highlight for our grandchildren, but the trees remain the real soul of the place. Along with the courtyard, the natural light that filters through the rooms, and the way every corner of the house has a view of greenery, these features are what make our home distinctive and memorable.

3. Is there a particular space or feature in your home that gives you an extra sense of comfort, a spot you find yourself drawn to most often?
A: I find comfort in two spaces above all. The drawing room is one of them, because it looks directly onto the garden, and that view alone brings a sense of peace. The other is our bedroom, which we designed to meet our needs in every way. It’s more than just a place to sleep, it has bookshelves, a study area for my husband, a sofa, and a TV, so it becomes a place where we can work, read, and relax together. The comfort of the bedroom lies not only in its design but also in the way it reflects our daily life and routines. These two spaces, one for quiet reflection and one for shared comfort, are the parts of the house I value most.

4. Homes often hold little stories within their walls. Are there any special moments that make this house especially meaningful for you?
A: This house has witnessed some of the happiest moments in my life. Both of my children were married here, and now my grandchildren live and play here, filling the space with laughter and joy. That alone makes the home deeply special to me. I also cherish the fact that my mother and my in-laws were able to spend time here during their lives. They came from Lahore and other places, and seeing them enjoy this house gave me immense happiness. In many ways, the house became a gathering place for family across generations, and that has added to its meaning. Of course, life always comes with trials, but this house has carried us through both joyous occasions and difficult times, holding those memories within its walls.

5. The treehouse has a creative almost magical touch. What inspired you to bring that idea to life in your home?
A: We had always loved the idea of a treehouse, but we couldn’t manage to build one when our children were small. When the grandchildren came along, it became a dream we wanted to fulfill for them. For nearly a decade, we searched for the right person to build one the way we had imagined, not plastic or fiberglass, but something natural and authentic. Eventually, we found a young architect from Karachi who worked with bamboo. He had designed schools and community buildings in Sindh using this material, and we felt he was the right person. With a team of Bangladeshi craftsmen skilled in bamboo, he built the treehouse with great care and artistry. It’s now been standing for about three years, and it feels like a magical extension of the garden — a place of wonder for the children, and a reminder of how long-held dreams can come true.

6. Is there any specific incident, or memory, with this house?
A: One memory that has stayed with me involves the sculptor Shahid Sajjad Sahib, who once visited our home. I admired his work and told him it was beautiful but beyond my budget. He looked at the tree outside and said, “What could be more beautiful than this? You don’t need my art when you already have such beauty in your own garden.” His words struck me deeply. That tree had grown with us, becoming a part of the house’s identity, and he made me realize how priceless it really was. It was a reminder that nature itself can be the greatest work of art, and that perspective has stayed with me ever since.

7. Managing and maintaining a house of this size can’t be easy. What kind of challenges do you face in its upkeep, and how do you and your family work together to handle them?
A: Like any household, we face our share of challenges, but we are fortunate to have a reliable and long-serving staff, many of whom have been with us for years. Their presence makes the day-to-day running of the house much smoother. Because of our area, the exterior stone requires occasional polishing, but otherwise, the interiors remain well maintained. Our lifestyle also helps keep everything in balance. My husband and I start our day early, waking before dawn to pray and then play golf, returning home by 7:30 a.m. — just as the staff begins their work. By mid-morning, most of the household tasks are completed, and the house is in order. This rhythm keeps life simple and organized, and instead of feeling burdened by the size of the home, we find peace in the way everything flows together.

8. Every home has its own charm, but attachment runs deeper than design. If you were offered another beautiful house, would you be open to moving?

A: Like anyone, I would prefer not to leave my home, but I’ve always believed that a house is ultimately made of walls and bricks — it is the people inside who give it life. When we returned from America, friends told me I would miss my house there, but I reminded them that my family was with me, and that is what mattered most. That being said, this house does hold a deep emotional connection. My children grew up here, and my son in particular feels so attached that he refuses the idea of moving anywhere else. For him, this space is irreplaceable. I share his sentiment — as long as it is God’s will, I would like to stay here. For me, the house is more than just shelter; it is a vessel of memories, love, and family history, and that is what makes it priceless.

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An Interview with Misbah Khalid on the Evolution and Vision of PIFF

Misbah Khalid, one of the driving forces behind the Pakistan International Film Festival (PIFF), shares its background, challenges and hopes for Pakistan’s film industry. Since its launch in 2018, PIFF has grown as a vital platform for young filmmakers, aiming to elevate Pakistani cinema on the global stage. This interview highlights PIFF’s mission, achievements, hurdles and future ambitions. Recently, PIFF held it’s four day festival from 19^th June.

How has PIFF evolved since its inception and what is the main focus of PIFF?

Pakistan International Film Festival (PIFF) is a project of the Karachi Film Society (KFS), which was founded in 2018. It is the brainchild of Sultana Siddiqui, and our goal from the very beginning was to create a platform for young people where they could showcase their talent and find real opportunities in the film world.

Our first festival in 2018 was a huge success. We had an incredible lineup of guests from India — directors, producers, and writers — as well as participants from the US, France and Iran. It was a truly international gathering. We screened a wide range of films and received a very positive response.

We also organized workshops and panel discussions that brought professionals and aspiring filmmakers together. For example we invited renowned Indian screenwriter Ashwini Malik for a scriptwriting workshop. We also brought in special effects makeup artists from Turkey — and invited Pakistani makeup professionals to come and learn the craft firsthand. One of our main goals is to bridge the gap between young creative industry professionals and masters of their craft. We want our local talent to receive the same level of training and exposure as professionals internationally.

What have been some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in running a festival of this scale?

There are persistent visa issues and security concerns, making international guests hesitant to travel here. That way films are powerful — they can reshape perceptions. We need to show the world that Pakistan is a beautiful place with rich culture, despite its challenges. I remember a group from the U.S. once visited us to explore filming opportunities. When we took them around to Lahore’s food street, the historic havelis and the stunning North — they absolutely fell in love. That’s the kind of image we want PIFF to project.

How do you see PIFF contributing to the growth of Pakistan’s film industry both locally and globally?

PIFF plays a vital role in developing filmmakers. We’re not just showcasing films — we’re working at the grassroots level on scriptwriting, makeup, budgeting, and all departments that go into film production. Our goal is to provide a platform where young people can learn and eventually begin making their own films.

When we send participants for training or bring in expert trainers to work with them, it sparks creativity. This field thrives on inspiration, and when young filmmakers interact with seasoned professionals, it opens up new ways of thinking.

We’re fortunate to have names like Mehreen Jabbar, Sarmad Khoosat, Javed Jabbar and Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy on our board — incredibly talented people who serve as mentors to the younger generation. That creates a huge scope for learning and growth.

What kind of support do you think is still missing for film festivals in Pakistan to truly flourish?

The biggest missing piece is government support — especially funding. It’s easy to dream big, but making those dreams a reality takes money. Organizing a festival, bringing people in, setting everything up — it all comes with costs.

So far, we’ve done what we could with a group of passionate, like-minded people. But without consistent financial backing from the government, there’s only so much we can do. There are many challenges, and I really believe the government needs to step up — not just with funds, but also with moral and structural support.

Film festivals like PIFF help put Pakistan on the global map. They also create crucial platforms for young talent to learn, grow, and move forward in their careers. For that to happen on a larger scale, we need sustained investment.

What’s your vision for PIFF in the next five years? Any new initiatives or directions you’re excited about?

My vision for PIFF is for it to one day celebrate 75 incredible years — that’s how long I want it to thrive and grow. When I went to the Berlin Film Festival early this year, I saw everything they had built over the years, and honestly, it opened my eyes. It made me realize what’s possible, even though we don’t have that kind of budget or support yet.

I also want to see our filmmakers and our stories showcased globally. Right now, we don’t have a strong footprint on the international circuit. A few passionate, dedicated individuals have taken it upon themselves to create films and get them into festivals, but we need more people to step up.

What advice would you give to aspiring festival organizers or filmmakers in Pakistan?

Dream. Dream big and keep your goals high. Stay positive and never give up. When you bring an idea forward, many people might say it’s impossible — that it can’t happen. But believe me, whatever you carry in your heart, you can achieve it.

Universities, colleges, and the government should come together to nurture young talent. Train them properly, send them abroad if needed, but with one condition: when you train, you must produce films that can succeed globally. I firmly believe Pakistan’s films will soon be featured in every major film festival — winning awards, telling our stories and showing the world who we really are.

The post Opening Vistas for the Youth appeared first on Glam Magazine.

Mr. Zeeshan’s insights are anything but theoretical. Born and raised in Karachi, he earned his master’s in International Relations from Roosevelt University, Chicago in 1980, and later pursued an MBA from the same institution. He is a seasoned businessman, inventor and author of five books—including work on President Donald Trump—and has appeared on various radio and television platforms in the United States. With firsthand experience across several dozen countries, Mr. Zeeshan brings a unique global lens to Pakistan’s challenges and opportunities. Currently based in the suburbs of Washington, DC, he joins us for an exclusive conversation with Glam Magazine to share his transformative vision for a Super Pakistan.

•  “Super Pakistan” is a bold title. What inspired you to write this book, and what is your vision of ‘super’ Pakistan?

“Super Pakistan” refers to the idea that a country’s economic size should match its population ranking. Pakistan is the fifth most populous country in the world. If and when its economy rises to the same level, it will justifiably be known as Super Pakistan. If we follow the roadmap in the book—and assuming there’s no major war or natural disaster—Pakistan can reach a one trillion dollar economy in five years and become the 15th largest economy in 10 years. Within a generation, it could be the 5th largest economy globally.

• Your book suggests enterprising ideas to boost Pakistan’s economy. Which one do you believe has the most realistic potential in the next five years?

First and foremost, we must drastically reduce unemployment. The way to do that is by teaching people to become entrepreneurs. The old model of going to school for sixteen years to earn above-average income is fading. Now, with the internet and YouTube, one can become productive in less than 16 months. I have explained this in Chapter Five: Triangle of Full Employment. I have even listed the top 20 skills that can be learned in less than a year. If someone knows English, they can be hired in Europe and beyond as independent service providers, working comfortably from home.

•  As someone who explores ideas, how do you see the role of creativity and innovation in transforming a nation’s economy?

Innovation has no boundaries. Every product—tangible or intangible—can be improved. That’s the essence of Chapter Four: Innovation Nation. Anyone can learn to innovate. Age, background, or education doesn’t matter. I describe simple, actionable steps in the book. Even low-level innovation can help people build a niche, a competitive edge and dominate markets.

• You’ve proposed several fascinating ideas. Can you share some of the standout ones, which can help boost Pakistan’s economy?

Yes, I’ve suggested more than two dozen new ideas. Let’s explore a few:

Astro-Tourism: A new form of tourism that hasn’t been tapped. We don’t need advanced space programmes to participate. We can plan trips 30 kilometers above Earth near the Karman Line, where tourists could experience weightlessness for a few hours. It’s realistic, exciting, and can generate significant revenue. Europe, Russia, and China are selling their advance space travel trips for millions of dollars.

Super University: A world-class institution where Nobel Prize winners are visiting professors. It would teach futuristic subjects like nanotechnology, genomics, and cybersecurity—fields that will soon be as in-demand as AI. This would attract the children of millionaires and billionaires worldwide.

Reunification with Bangladesh: Politically bold, yes. But dialogue could start based on the Six Points of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Pakistan could offer a nuclear umbrella for Bangladesh’s security as a basis for discussions.

A Second Name for Pakistan: Countries have changed names to strengthen identity. A second name could boost Pakistan’s soft power, increase nationalism, and even reinforce our claim on the Koh-i-Noor.

Renaming Cities: Giving major cities new names rooted in culture and pride will create nostalgia and increase civic ownership.

Babri Masjid Replica: I propose constructing a replica on the historic route Babur took into the subcontinent. It could become a symbol and boost religious tourism, particularly from Muslim nations.

Redesign of Currency: A beautifully designed new currency note that foreigners would want to keep as a souvenir, showcasing art and pride.

Renaming Parliament Houses: Changing the names of both houses of parliament to Diwan-e-Aam and Diwan-e-Khas—terms deeply rooted in Mughal and South Asian history—would give a uniquely Pakistani imprint.

Q.  What about political reforms? How do we ensure stability in governance?

Zeeshan: In Chapter Six, I suggest a framework where every Prime Minister can complete their full term. Stability is key for economic and social progress. I also propose reforms that make political parties disincentivized to incite violence. In Chapter Seven, I discuss a law that ensures violent processions are no longer in their interest. Additionally, I’ve proposed a strategy to make people pay taxes rapidly and willingly. It’s about rebuilding trust and delivering value.

• You hinted at a plan involving overseas Pakistanis and international startups. What’s that about?

I have a detailed and specific plan to launch three startup corporations in the United States with the support of overseas Pakistanis. These ventures involve highly unique concepts—ranging from traditional products to cutting-edge technology. The franchise potential is global, and the revenue could be in the hundreds of billions. The remittances from these companies can be reinvested in Pakistan’s high-tech industries, helping accelerate growth and innovation. While I can’t disclose all details publicly, interested overseas Pakistaniscan contact me directly on email.

Q.  One of your closing thoughts in the book is about mindset. What exactly is the “semi-cyborg” mindset?

It’s time Pakistan says goodbye to Semi-Amish thinking—a reference to outdated, overly conservative, or anti-tech mindsets. We must embrace a semi-cyborg mindset: one that integrates tradition with futuristic thinking.

This means being tech-savvy, globally aware, and driven by innovation—a people ready to shape the future rather than be shaped by it.

• Lastly what message would you like to give especially to the young dreamers, thinkers and future change makers of Pakistan?

Pakistan doesn’t lack talent—it lacks direction and bold execution. Super Pakistan is not fiction. It’s a roadmap built with realistic, achievable ideas. If the youth, overseas Pakistanis, and policymakers come together with vision and determination, nothing can stop us from becoming a global powerhouse.

Contact details: ILYASZESHAN@GMAIL.COM

Download the free E-book: www.superpakistan.us

The post A Roadmap to Pakistan’s Economic Revival appeared first on Glam Magazine.

Each province in Pakistan has distinctive fabric heritage, such as the Sindhi ajrak and Punjabi phulkari. Pakistani fashion influencers have blended cultural identity with modern tools to rebrand Pakistan’s global image. Social media is no longer only about entertainment for us, it is also where we learn about culture, identity and trends.

Some examples of famous fashion influencers in Pakistan include, Zain Ahmad the founder of a Pakistani clothing brand ‘Rastah’ that has gained international recognition. Zain’s designs have been worn by famous influencers including Justin Bieber and Anwar Hadid.

Moreover, model Mushk Kaleem, frequently represents Pakistan while walking runways abroad, talking about inclusivity. This made us brown teens who feel left out from the beauty standard, feel seen as she has redefined the “ beauty standard”

These creatives have made Pakistani fashion more accessible to us, younger generations eg. by pairing khussas with jeans. This also attracts international audiences who want to incorporate cultural elements into their fashion style. These steps keep our culture alive, while making it a part of everyday fashion.

Fashion influencers play a critical role in highlighting the diversity between the different regions of Pakistan, as many feature regional designs in their content, allowing viewers to witness the wide spectrum of Pakistani culture through a single scroll of their social media accounts. This plays a significant role as it was found that 82% of people are highly likely to follow influencer recommendations (Berger, 2016)

Pakistani wedding fashion has gone viral on social media platforms such as Tiktok and Instagram and led to Pakistani designer’s work being featured in bridal magazines as well as representing South Asian culture. Influencers like Sarah Sarosh frequently incorporate Pakistani elements in their content, this demonstrates the influence of our fashion across borders.

Apart from clothing fashion, influencers like Hania Amir have used their reach not only to showcase fashion, but also to promote mental health awareness and body positivity – topics that really matter to us as teens. Fashion influencers elevate Pakistan’s global image and positively affect the economy by highlighting small businesses that contribute to the country’s creative economy.

Furthermore, many influencers are now invited to international fashion weeks and exhibitions, further cementing their status as cultural ambassadors. The power of Pakistani fashion influencers is growing rapidly and this comes with great responsibility. It is essential influencers promote sustainability and ethical practices. Influencers like Anoushay Abbassi’s blend of fashion and advocacy for supporting local artisans makes their influencer role highly crucial.

In today’s day and age, teenagers are growing up in this digital world where perceptions are shaped by information available on the internet, especially social media. Pakistani fashion influencers have become trendsetters, story tellers and identity shapers. Through every post, reel, OOTD (outfit of the day) pictures they are transforming how the world sees Pakistan. Clothing in Pakistan is a powerful expression of national pride, cultural identity and centuries old craftsmanship.

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The Pakistan Women’s Foundation for Peace hosted the Women’s Day 2025 event, addressing Pakistan’s persistent gender disparity and the critical need for equality. Despite women’s undeniable contributions to society—excelling in academics, breaking stereotypes, and achieving historic milestones—Pakistan ranks 145th out of 146 countries on the Global Gender Gap Index, a position it has held for years.

President PWFFP said Women make up 49 percent of the population, yet their literacy rate remains only 51 percent, and their workforce participation stagnates at 25 percent. Even in politics and corporate leadership, their presence is limited, often restricted to token roles. Rural women face even harsher realities, with unpaid labour and lack of recognition. Billions have been spent on women’s development programmes, yet tangible improvements remain scarce.

PWFFP urges a national commitment to addressing these issues through better resource allocation, strict accountability, and a stronger push for gender parity. This year’s event featured renowned experts Dr. Ishrat Husain (Economist), Ms. Nasreen Jaleel (Politician), Dr. Tasneem Ahsan (Health Specialist), Barrister Zahra S. Viyani (Legal Expert), Ms. Baela Raza Jameel (Educationist), and Dr. Asad Sayeed (Economist). Their insights highlighted solutions to break barriers and advance women’s empowerment in Pakistan.

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Consul General Mr. Surashete Boontinand opened the evening with a warm address, highlighting the cultural significance of Songkran, recently inscribed by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. He emphasized the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening bilateral ties.

Over 200 guests, including media representatives, diplomats and members of the local community, were treated to a colourful lineup of performances that blended Thai and Pakistani traditions. From elegant Thai dance to rhythmic Pakistani music and dance the evening was a celebration of unity through culture.

Guests also enjoyed a rich spread of Thai cuisine and took part in traditional Songkran activities, including the famous water-splashing ritual, which symbolizes cleansing, renewal, and good fortune.

The Songkran Festival in Karachi was more than a cultural showcase—it was a reflection of the growing friendship and mutual respect between the two nations, leaving attendees with memories of joy, connection, and shared heritage.

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