In a country where conversations around economic reform often circle the same tired points, Super Pakistan emerges as a breath of fresh air—an unapologetically bold and visionary roadmap to economic revival. Packed with unconventional proposals and untapped possibilities, this book presents ideas that have never been discussed in Pakistan’s 75-year history. From Astro-tourism to futuristic universities, renaming cities to reimagining tax reforms, author Ilyas M. Zeeshan paints a compelling picture of what Pakistan could become: the 15th largest economy in the world within just five years, if a V-shaped economic growth model is adopted.

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: [email protected]

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

Written by Myra Shah

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.

Women’s Day 2025

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.