Finding Strength In Vulnerability: Hina Ashfaq Talks To Us
Why this matters: local context for readers following news across Pakistan and the region.
Some careers begin with a carefully planned dream. Others unfold unexpectedly and quietly change the course of a life. For Pakistani artist Hina Ashfaq, the spotlight arrived almost by accident, but staying in it has been a conscious choice shaped by resilience, curiosity and self belief. Moving between modeling, commercials and acting, she is learning to define success on her own terms rather than industry expectations. In our exclusive conversation, Hina opens up about growth, criticism, creative freedom and the journey of discovering who she truly is both on and off screen. How did your journey into showbiz begin, and what first drew you to the spotlight? Hina: My modeling journey was actually unplanned. I originally wanted to become a fashion designer, but I somehow landed in commercials, and that’s where everything began. I also participated in a beauty contest where I made it to the top seven, but the real spotlight came after my first billboard campaign. What has acting taught you about yourself that modeling never did? Hina: Acting helped me discover myself on a much deeper level. Modeling is about expression through presence, body language and visuals, but acting requires emotional understanding and vulnerability. It pushed me to explore perspectives different from my own. I realized how adaptable I am and how much I enjoy stepping outside my comfort zone to experience different personalities and emotions. Which recent role challenged you the most as a performer? Hina: My recent drama Qafas challenged me the most because the character was completely different from who I am in real life. It gave me the opportunity to experiment and stretch my acting abilities. Playing someone so unlike myself was both demanding and rewarding, and I truly enjoyed the learning process that came with it. Is there a character or story you are still waiting to tell on screen? Hina: Absolutely. I would love to portray a strong, independent woman whose story highlights realities an