It was through this campaign that she came in the eyes of international media and was voted the '9th SEXIEST ASIAN WOMAN IN THE WORLD' according to a leading British Asian newspaper's 2008 list while Bollywood beauty Katrina Kaif was chosen as the sexiest Asian woman. Mehwish has done quite a few famous drama serials as well as modelled for many a prestigious brand. Here, she talks candidly about her profession with us.
What sort of a contribution can a model make towards the fashion industry?
The modelling scene in Pakistan is experiencing a boom. What impresses me the most is that it is becoming more professional with good photographers joining the industry who take it seriously and have made an effort to study their craft. I am also happier that Pakistani society is beginning to accept modelling as a respectable profession. As a model there are a lot of different ways of contributing towards the fashion industry, but the most important of all is to promote and support new aspiring models who are equally talented and have potential. All they need is proper guidance. By doing this we can help provide our fashion industry young talent of today and top models of tomorrow.
The industry has obviously given you a lot making you famous, how do you think you can pay back?
I have always believed in working hard. And have experienced that this industry respects and promotes those who are thorough professionals and hard workers. This industry has given me a lot and I can only pay back by not letting those down who expect the best out of me and by making not only this industry but also my whole country proud through my work.
Do you think our models have the capacity of matching the best in this business elsewhere in the world or even our neighbours India?
We have immense talent in our country plus, as I mentioned earlier, our society is beginning to accept modelling as a respectable profession so it's good to see that young girls and boys who belong to respectable family backgrounds and are well educated are joining in. Our models are capable of representing our country all around the globe!
Do you think our industry or market is big enough to give our models the opportunity to do that?
Yes, of course!
Is modelling a lucrative business? What's the commercial aspect of modelling besides the fame and glamour factor?
When we talk about modelling, fame and glamour are the two most common factors that come along with it... But yes, one can make good money out of modelling as well.
How important is a model in the marketing of a brand?
A model is very important as she represents the brand and its various aspects. It's all about the perfect presentation because this is the only way how one can target more and more consumers and convince them to buy your product!
If given a chance what steps would you take to revolutionise the modelling industry?
I'm too young and I am still in the process of learning... I guess I will be able to answer this question properly maybe after a year or so...!
Would you like someone to do it all for you from finding, selecting to finalising the projects?
Are you talking about a manager? Not a bad idea! I guess I should start looking for one!
