Deepak Perwani launched his flagship store recently. Celebrities, Media and people attended the event from all walks of life.

Two-time Academy Award-winning filmmaker, Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy celebrated the successful conclusion of the fourth iteration of Pakistan’s largest filmmaking grant and mentorship programme Patakha Pictures, “Her Earth Advocates,” featuring ten filmmakers from across Pakistan.

This seven-month programme, “Her Earth Advocates,” which started in April 2024, focused on the central themes of climate change and women’s empowerment in Pakistan, funded by the United States Institute of Peace.

Over the past several months, ten aspiring filmmakers came together who participated in an intensive online mentorship series with Patakha Pictures’ international mentor, Sundance Award-winning documentary filmmaker Jesse Ericka Epstein, concluding with an in-person editing and closing event in Karachi.

This collaboration resulted in five short documentary films which offered unique perspectives on the environmental challenges faced by communities in Pakistan. The closing event celebrating the completion of the programme, took place in Karachi. The Fellows showcased their work and were celebrated for their determination to tackle climate change issues.

In attendance were two-time Academy Award-winning filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, Sarwat Gillani [who also hosted a panel discussion with Jesse Ericka Epstein and Patakha Pictures fellows], Mehwish Hayat, Syra Yousuf, Saqib Malik, Ali Hamza, Samina Ahmed, Kompal Iqbal, Sheema Kermani, Alycia Dias, Amean J., Sania Maskatiya, Safinaz Muneer, Maheen Khan, and Fahad Mirza, who shared valuable insights with the participants.

This event also served as a platform for fellows to discuss their projects, sharing glimpses into the creative process behind their films—a powerful testament to the talent nurtured through “Her Earth Advocates.”

Ruhana Iqbal, a world class beautician and former President of Pakistan Hair and Beauty Association (PHABA), received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Organization Mondiale Coiffure (OMC) recently. It was an honour for the country as well as Ms. Iqbal to receive this prestigious international award. Ruhana Iqbal’s journey in the beauty industry spans 45 years shaping its growth and development. One of her most significant contributions was the founding of the Pakistan Hair and Beauty Association 35 years ago. This association has been instrumental in promoting education and unity among beauticians and hair stylists in Pakistan.

Ruhana Iqbal’s association with OMC began ten years ago due to Nayana Karunaratne, who introduced her to this global platform. Since then Pakistan has continuously been participating in OMC events, showcasing the talent and creativity of beauticians here. Ruhana Iqbal has had the privilege of representing Pakistan multiple times in the Asia Pacific Championships. Ms Iqbal in her speech acknowledged that the award was not just a recognition of her personal achievements but also a testament to the dedication and hard work of her team, colleagues and the entire PHABA family. She added that she looked forward to continuing the partnership with OMC in future championships with the talented Pakistani beauty professionals making their mark on the global stage.