Daily Times

Faraz Ahmad is a Pakistani model of Tunisian origin. He derives much of his attractiveness from his foreign looks accompanied by a gold moustache and beard. Based in Lahore, the 27-year-old model has worked for many companies and brands, both as a fashion model and as a performer in commercials. Five years into the field, Faraz Ahmad started modelling at the age of 23 and has been working incessantly since then. Daily Times caught up with him to ask him about his experiences in the field, both good and bad.

Tell us about your entry into the field. How did modelling begin for you?

I started my career with a Turkish brand and a few other campaigns in Europe. I was based in Pakistan but wasn’t doing modelling for Pakistani brands. So, my family once said to me that I am working internationally but am unknown to Pakistanis. This statement of theirs was the right click for me. After that, I did the first ramp show for Élan held privately and then it went on and on.

With which brands have you worked up until now and with whom did you enjoy the most?

Well, to name a few, Republic by Omer Farooq, FHS by HUB, Outfitters, Ultra Club, Shoe Planet, Sitara and Ittehad. The TVCs include Ufone, Telenor, Shan foods etc. I make sure that I enjoy every single project and treat the team as my family, even if for a short duration of time.

The field of modelling is notorious for sexual harassment. Did you ever face any such difficulty while pursuing your career?

Yes, I did face that a lot and I still do. But I know my limits which I don’t cross, neither do I allow others to cross them.

What was the biggest hurdle for you when you started your career as a model?

Links! You cannot take a single step without it and I did not have any. So, I built my PR on my own and paved my way towards success.

From modelling, do you wish to go towards acting?

Well, yes of course! In fact, I do have offers so let’s see what the future has in store for me.

Who is your favourite designer and why?

I have always admired international designers, not for what they make but for their professional attitude towards work. So, Givenchy remains my favourite in this regard.

What message would you give to aspiring male models?

I would advise them not to lose hope, stick to their path and keep going. They will attain success sooner or later.

Tell us about your upcoming projects.

I cannot disclose yet, but I will be bringing something new very soon.

From where did you get your gold beard and moustaches?

Ah! It’s because of the genetics. I was born in Tunisia and belong to a Kashmiri family. The hair colour is natural.

The writer is a freelance journalist and can be reached at m.ali_aquarius85@yahoo.com. He Tweets at @MuhammadAli_DT