About Salina:
Salina Zafar is a British Pakistani, living in London. She has achieved a high level in her career upon qualifying as a chartered surveyor in the real estate industry and is now all set for her international pageant Miss Nation taking place in the UAE December 2019.
I was initially not familiar with the beauty pageants and only saw it as a one-day catwalk show. In many countries pageants are celebrated as a national event. There is a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes which is unseen. During my travel to Pakistan earlier this year, I realised that there is a lack of opportunities for women and I wanted to make a difference. Even in the UK, gender inequality is a major issue so I started exploring ideas and came across pageantry. I saw how powerful beauty pageants can be as a platform for young girl with strong personalities. This led me to audition for Miss Universe Great Britain and I was selected as one of the national finalists.
When did you decide to take up pageantry as a career?
After completing my qualification, I needed a path, which would allow me to contribute to issues, which I felt close to. Of course, at the end of the day, a major part of a beauty pageant is how well you represent yourself on the stage. As a complete newcomer to the world of modeling, I worked extremely hard on my training and my physic and I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. Modeling was naturally the next step. I also worked with various different charities and students in different schools. The response from everyone was over whelming and I decided that it was important for me to continue my journey to an international platform.
How would you like to influence your audience?
I was thrilled when I was selected for Miss Nation as it sets itself apart from all other pageants and emphasises on education and natural beauty. I believe I am a representation of a professional working female; an example of someone who was able to make her own decisions and chose her own career path. I want to lead by example that when a woman is given equal opportunity and full right on education she can truly achieve anything. And this is the message I want to take forward with me through Miss Nation.
What are you most passionate about?
I am equally a creative person and I believe that through creative content, I can make a positive impact to my generation and the next generation. I love the world of fashion and it’s a great way of connecting with people. I also enjoy writing and have a keen interest in filmmaking in the near future.
You mentioned your love for fashion, who is your favourite designer in Pakistan?
I think Pakistan has a lot of talented and big designers to name one. I just love the fact that Pakistani fashion is full of cultural representation yet contemporary. And the bridal collection is always breathtaking.
Would you like a Career in Pakistan?
I am currently working in London on various different projects including commercials and short films. There are a lot of great movies being made in Pakistan from many talented artists And so, if a good opportunity did come my way, I would definitely consider it.
What is your take on being a public figure?
As a public figure, you always have the responsibility to make a positive contribution to the society. I think the more I learn about myself, the more I am able to give back and this is what a public figure should constantly aim for.
