I f there’s one thing that remains the ultimate way to attain your goals is to not shy away from any hindrances and remain persistent towards your target.
Actress, Producer and Entrepreneur Syeda Zahra Shah is giving us major inspiration goals as she juggles various roles to her name, not backing out and not giving up so easily. Here are a few excerpts to our interesting conversation as Syeda defined what success really means! Read On:
SD: How did you step into the world of entertainment?
Syeda: I started my career as an assistant director then got a couple of offers of commercials after which I got my major break working for some of the leading television channels of our country.
SD: Were there any setbacks you had to face while pursuing this passion?
Syeda: It was a tough start no doubt but Alhamdulilah things went great from thereon.
SD: On what criteria do you select your projects?
Syeda: For me, it is extremely important that the roles I choose have to be decent and modest, though I have done negative mostly but I liked all the characters I have done.
SD: Did you face any major disappointments as opposed to what you expected to gain from this industry?
Syeda: Definitely things aren’t easy for a new comer around here. Nepotism exists and there are no two ways about it. However, where there is a will there’s a way. You need to be affirmed on what you want to attain in your life and just strive for it.
SD: How far along do you feel the industry has come when it comes to creating quality dramas?
Syeda: I think we are doing great so far. We have been able to bring forth a range of amazing dramas from brilliant writers and production houses. Pakistan has always been great in creating plays. Alhamdulilah we have great emerging talents and such legends that are making our dramas so defining and exemplary.
SD: When did you decide to have your own production house made?
Syeda: After I did my serials and soaps, I decided to pursue what I dream, I have always loved the camera and wanted to turn stories into visuals. It comes with its own set of challenges but with persistence and hard work you can attain great results. Just keep your focus and eye on the prize.
SD: How do you decide on the projects you wish to take upon?
Syeda: For me, the budget has to be good and the character has to be fascinating as well. But if I take a realistic jab at it, mostly my focus is on the budget.
SD: What projects are you currently working on as a producer and an actor?
Syeda: At the moment, I am currently working on something unique and distinctive. A series of Army documentaries and even a short film. As an actor I have taken a break due to COVID. I am also waiting for some good offers. If I am to put my heart and soul into a project, it has to be worth it.
SD: You can be considered as an entrepreneur too; how did you dabble into opening a Café?
Syeda: I know it comes across as something which is daring during these uncertain times. It is definitely a great struggle to open and run a successful café during COVID-19. I am dedicated and working hard for it.
SD: Among all your titles- as an actor, producer and entrepreneur- which role is the closest to you and why?
Syeda: If I had to choose one, I would say an actor. See I call myself a very dead person. And it makes me happy when I actually bring a character to life. This brings me a lot of excitement when I am bringing forth a non-existing character into the picture. There’s just nothing that can beat that.
SD: How has the pandemic impacted your work flow and how do you vision to keep a balance among all your projects?
Syeda: I won’t sugarcoat it. But it has definitely affected business. But I am a firm believer that rizq is something which is only in Allah’s hand. So I try not to worry about these things and add onto my stress.
In a Glance:
The Thing You are Grateful for in the Lockdown?
Family time
What attracts you to a person?
Intelligence
The one thing that is a mood killer?
When people judge you without knowing you
Three things you have with you all the time?
My phone, AirPods and a sanitizer these days
Your favorite designer
Maria.B
Morning Person or Night Owl
Morning person
Desi Wear or Western
Desi looks better
Deepest Fear
Losing my parents
Biggest Regret
I don’t live in regrets
Most Prized Possession
My father
Biggest Strength
Faith
Someone you wish meet
Angelina Jolie
Your Top 3 on your bucket list
· Travelling
· Making money
· Buying new gadgets
The best thing about your work
It’s fun meeting new people and change is very important for me which I get in this field
The worst thing about your work
Timings
Pet Peeves
Getting payment delay
What people don’t know about you?
I am a private person; I love to keep my life to myself
The craziest rumor you heard about yourself
Lol skip this one
Your dream destination
Switzerland
