Daily Times

Pakistani actress Armeena Khan has lent support to a trust in the United Kingdom that gathers money for free eye care in Pakistan. The event to raise funds for the project will be hosted by Pakistani-Hollywood actor, Art Malik.

The charity’s goal is to provide free eye surgery and ophthalmic care for those who cannot afford this in Pakistan. An eye transplant in Pakistan costs about 120000 rupees which is astronomical for low income households in Pakistan.

The Graham Layton Trust was launched in 1985 and this year, Pakistan’s Bin Roye, Janaan and Daldal star is to be a part of its fundraising event.

Speaking to Daily Times, the Yalghaar actress told us how passionately she feels about contributing towards causes that matter. “The GLT is doing some really good work and I am proud to be associated with something that makes lives better. Pakistan is a developing country and our people face many challenges that can get better if we all do our part.”

Armeena has been a vocal supporter of many international causes such as Rohingya refugees, and dedicated her award at a UK ceremony to the Rohingya refugees in September last year. “As artists,” the Daldal star added, “we are in a unique position to use our voices to get attention and bring the world’s focus to many people who are not privileged and do not have the access to many of the even basic services such as food, shelter and healthcare.”

“I know it’s not easy to speak out about many things, but I believe we should use our clout for the better. It breaks my heart when I see terrible things happening in the world – and I wonder, what can I to do make this better? What is my role here? All of this speaking out, is a way to make a difference. Somehow.”

Armeena has been vocal about cyber bullying, sexual abuse, discrimination based on colour and religion as well as abuse against animals. She has also refused to do fairness cream television commercials or endorsements saying that it “enforces a negative stereotype that only fair is beautiful”.

The actress will be appearing at the charity event today (Saturday), at the Vermillion in Manchester.

Published in Daily Times, May 12^th 2018.