The Emerging Pakistan fashion show in Germany took place at Ritz Carlton, Berlin to celebrate the rich culture of Pakistan. The show was directed and choreographed by veteran model Fia Khan and organised in partnership with the High Commission of Pakistan in Germany. The show was planned and hosted by Ambassador of Pakistan to Germany Jauhar Saleem and Zahra Jauhar. The Pakistani designers who participated in the event were Faraz Abid Sheiku, Yousaf Bashir Qureshi Design Studio and Jewelry Designer TSafira by Sana Nisar. A Special khathak dance performance was held by Wahab Shah flanked by Rachel Gill. The Emerging Fashion Show was attended by ambassadors of different countries like Japan, UAE, Egypt, Jordan, Niagara, Turkey and Afghanistan. “Because I was born here and I grew up singing anthems of this land, I have a special place for Germany in my heart. I remember when I used to go to school during the 1990s, people didn’t have a clue where to find Pakistan in an atlas, and that used to make me sad. Anyway, somehow I landed in Pakistan and became a part of the fashion industry for almost good 12 years. I’ve been back in Berlin for nearly two years. I have organised, directed and choreographed three shows here with the help of Jauhar Saleem; the ambassador to Pakistan embassy Berlin. He has been a constant source of inspiration to me and has been working tirelessly to portray a positive image of Pakistan to the world. I believe his and my ideas have been concurrent. All three of the shows have left a unique mark on the audience. Mostly because of the preconceived notions “Women in burkas, bomb blasts and liberty to radical Islamists”. As opposed to this when they come and visit the show, and see the rich art and culture of Pakistan, their reactions show their prejudices shattering. I personally try to raise the bar with every show and try to bring new ideas. The last show was impactful. To complement the collection of Faraz, I created a traditional eastern wedding, for people to have a better understanding of our customs. At the same time Sana’s jewellery, baffled the audience. And how can I forget Wahab Shah and Rachel Gill who I am thoroughly thankful to who are contemporary dancers and for them to get out of their comfort zones and create a classical piece for me, bravo! It was a tribute to Khanu Samrat. They made the show lit. Last but definitely not the least, YBQ’s poetry recitation won hearts. See, for me success is those 20 people leaving the hall with a different and positive perception of Pakistan. Not to mention, this time it were only 250. I would like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart, especially those who come to help me spread a softer image of Pakistan. Sadaf Kanwal, Alyzeh Gabol, Rachel Gill, Anam Malik, Wahab Shah, Immy and Arun Zafar, my friends and the real MVPs. Bilal Mukhtar PR & Events, cannot thank you guys enough for making the show available on every phone screen. I love you all and Pakistan Zindabad,” Fia Khan said. While YBQ stood out for his unique improvisation and ‘art with a message’ presentation, Tsafira impressed everyone with her the exquisite designs. FAS was able to project the rich tradition is bridal fashion in an effective manner. Wahab Shah and Racheal were just brilliant in their dance performance. One of the biggest challenges we face as a country is the image problem. The mis-perception not only affects our trade and tourism but also makes life difficult for our Pakistani diaspora. The best way to improve our image or brand is through projecting our amazing tradition of fashion, art and music. The classy venue, the exquisite performances, the unique idea of dastarbandi of the chief guest, the poetic rendition of Islam’s message of peace and love, the remarkable audience ; all gelled together to produce a show to remember and a befitting tribute to our great country. My commendation is due to YBQ, FAS, Sana, Wahab Shah and Racheal for their amazing contributions And to Sofia Khan for assisting in putting it all together. You all rock,” Jauhar Salim said. Many Muslim ambassadors conveyed that the cultural presentation in Berlin not only presented a beautiful face of Pakistan, but also a beautiful image of the entire Muslim world. Published in Daily Times, May 8th 2018.