This week You! talks to Zainab Raja, who recently won a beauty contest...
beauty
This week You! talks to Zainab Raja, who recently won a beauty contest...
For most of us, conventional beauty means a pretty face, long silky hair, and nice silhouette. However, being beautiful is not just about looks. A woman’s beauty lies in her confidence, her passions, and the way she walks, talks and carries herself. And for that, one constantly needs grooming. This is where shows like Miss Veet Pakistan step in. The previous seasons were focused on finding a supermodel, but this time the contest aimed at crowning a girl who was not only physically fit but had good communication, acting and modelling skills. The brand itself is all about femininity, beauty and confidence so it’s not a surprise that the show which was on air for four months brought forth the same qualities.
Recently, 20-year-old Zainab Raja from Islamabad was crowned Miss Veet Pakistan 2016 out of 12 contestants. The finale took place at Mohatta Palace, Karachi which was beautifully adorned with performances by our favourite celebs - Mawra Hocane and Ali Zafar. This week You! talks to Zainab, who has all the potentials to be in the league of today’s super models. Read on...
You! How was your journey of Miss Veet Pakistan contest?
Zainab Raja: The whole journey has been amazing. It was like a dream come true. I think I have transformed in many ways. I overcame my fears of water and animals and am a more confident, patient and calm person now.
You! Why did you think of participating in Miss Veet Pakistan contest?
Z.R: Since I was three, I wanted to act and see myself on TV. And when the auditions were held in Islamabad, I thought that this was my only chance of getting into the field of acting. Actually in Pakistan girls who want to pursue a career in acting/modelling don’t have any platform of showcasing their talent. So I chose this platform to fulfil my dreams.
You! Were your parents supportive of your decision?
Z.R: Initially, my father was not too keen, but he was really happy and proud when I got selected out of so many girls and ultimately won.
You! What do you prefer - modelling or acting?
Z.R: It is just the beginning of my career. Acting is my passion, but I love modelling too. Modelling is a well paid job and is a little easier. Acting requires a lot of hard work and you have to shoot for long hours.
You! Your favourite and most difficult challenges?
Z.R: I have hydrophobia so diving into the water from a cliff was the most scary thing for me. Also, we had to do a photo shoot with a python around our necks. I am not an animal person and having a reptile around my neck while posing was quite tough. The rafting challenge and the final challenge where we had to go to the fish market were the most exciting.
You! The brand has recently launched an academy, what are your views?
Z.R: I believe that such initiatives are a step towards growing our fashion industry. Now girls have a platform where they can be transformed and get proper grooming and training before entering this field.
You! What is your beauty regimen?
Z.R: As soon as I wake up in the morning, I have a glass of warm water. I have oily skin so I use water based moisturizer at night and cleanse my skin daily and never sleep with makeup on. Keeping my skin hydrated is the key to glowing skin. I don’t iron my hair on a daily basis and use herbal oil for my hair once a week. Most importantly I wear sunblock before going out.
You! What is one cosmetic that you cannot do without?
Z.R: That has to be lip balm and mascara.
You! What is your favourite makeup brand and perfume?
Z.R: Nothing beats Mac when it comes to makeup brands. My current favourite perfumes are ‘Especially Escada’ and ‘Flora by Gucci’.
You! Who is your favourite stylist?
Z.R: Haiya Bokhari
You! When stepping out of the house do you prefer wearing makeup?
Z.R: Not all the time. I love being natural and simple.
You! Your makeup bag consists of?
Z.R: Lip balm, eye liner, mascara, perfume and hair brush.
You! Favourite salon/spa?
Z.R: I love Dermologica treatments at Nirvana Spa and Salon.
You! Any advice for those who want to come into this field?
Z.R: As cliched as it may sound but never give up on your dreams. Make a plan, focus, work hard and achieve your goals.
You! Your future plans?
Z.R: To establish myself as an actor and ultimately go for movies. As far as modelling is concerned it is my dream to see myself on Sana Safinaz billboards and walk the ramp for Ali Xeeshan.
