Daily Times

British-Pakistani actor Riz Ahmed, who visited Pakistan lately for Lahore Literature Festival, congratulated Marvia Malik, Pakistan’s first transgender news broadcaster for accomplishing her dream via an Instagram post.

The famous, ‘Nightcrawler’ star posted, “Congratulations to Marvia Malik. In some ways, Pakistan has been ahead of the curve in certain aspects of trans rights. In other ways, it has lagged behind. Hoping we can all learn from each other in paving the way to greater inclusion.”

During his visit to his homeland after 13 years (which he labels as ‘meeting an ex’) Riz has been observed as a transgender activist, since he has been speaking up about trans rights in Pakistan.

Emmy Award-winner previously posted on his Instagram account, “In recent times, Pakistan has recognised the ‘third gender’ on official government documents, cementing their place in the society. But despite this recognition, they are marginalised and often earn a living through dancing, sex work or a kind of spiritual begging, (it is believed their prayers and curses carry more weight, so it’s best not to anger them, and instead to seek their blessings)”

Marvia Malik, has been making headlines after her appearance on, Kohenoor, a private media channel, presenting a positive identity of the third gender and the addition of her community in the public sphere.

With that, she immediately became an inspiration and an idol for many especially her community members.