In a recent episode of the 'FWhy Podcast' hosted by Frieha Altaf, Pakistani model, and entrepreneur Mushk Kaleem opened up about her personal struggles, shedding light on important issues such as body dysmorphia, her father's kidnapping, and the prevailing double standards within the fashion industry. With honesty and courage, Kaleem shared her experiences, aiming to create awareness and inspire positive change.
A Heartbreaking Personal Tragedy: Her Father's Kidnapping
Kaleem revealed the painful reality of her father's kidnapping ten years ago while working for an American cargo shipping company in Nigeria. She explained that her father was taken hostage by Somalian pirates after his ship was hijacked. This tragic incident has left her father as a "missing person" ever since. Kaleem's strength and resilience shine through as she speaks about this devastating event and the impact it has had on her life.
Challenging the Double Standards: Candid Insights into the Fashion Industry
As a successful model, Kaleem has made her mark in the fashion industry. She has worked with renowned designers and brands, including Sania Maskatiya, Sana Safinaz, and Zara Shahjahan, among others. However, she addresses the prevalent issue of double standards within the industry, highlighting her own experiences with colorism and unrealistic beauty standards.
Kaleem bravely discusses how she faced pressure to lighten her skin tone and even encountered a photographer who applied foundation several shades lighter than her actual skin tone. She firmly states that she will no longer comply with such demands and hopes for a more inclusive industry where young girls entering the field don't have to face similar challenges.
Battling Body Dysmorphia: A Personal Struggle
The conversation takes a poignant turn as Kaleem opens up about her battle with body dysmorphia. Despite her slender physique, she shares her deep-seated insecurities and how she always felt overweight. Her struggle with body image was so intense that she reached a point of depression, avoiding mirrors and experiencing significant weight loss due to extreme measures.
Kaleem's journey toward self-acceptance and recovery involved seeking therapy, changing her social circle, and prioritizing her mental well-being. She emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset, highlighting the harmful effects of societal pressures and the importance of self-love.
Rising Above Challenges: Career Achievements and Entrepreneurial Pursuits
Despite the hurdles she has faced, Kaleem's determination and hard work have propelled her career forward. In 2019, she received the prestigious Lux Style Award for Best Emerging Talent in Fashion. Additionally, she had the opportunity to walk the runway at Milan Fashion Week, representing designer Stella Jean's collection inspired by Pakistani embroidery.
During the pandemic, Kaleem embarked on an entrepreneurial journey, starting a business venture focused on hand-poured soy candles housed in locally-sourced onyx and marble containers. This new endeavor reflects her creativity and passion for creating unique products, showcasing her versatility beyond the modeling realm.
Inspiring Change: Kaleem's Vision for the Future
Kaleem's experiences have fueled her determination to bring about positive change within the fashion industry. She acknowledges the need for greater diversity and inclusivity, emphasizing that the industry should be more open to learning and embracing different body types, skin tones, and heights. She applauds the recent progress in featuring dark-skinned models and models of various sizes in campaigns, expressing her hope for a more inclusive and accepting fashion world.
Through her own journey of resilience and empowerment, Kaleem aims to inspire young girls and aspiring models to embrace their uniqueness and challenge societal norms. She wants them to understand that success is not defined by physical appearance alone but by talent, hard work, and inner strength.
The Importance of Mental Health and Self-Care
Kaleem's story highlights the significance of mental health and self-care in an industry often focused on external appearances. Her struggles with body dysmorphia and depression serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing one's well-being above all else. By sharing her experiences and seeking help, she sets an example for others to acknowledge and address their mental health concerns.
Mushk Kaleem's Journey of Resilience and Advocacy
Mushk Kaleem's story is one of resilience, strength, and determination. From her father's tragic kidnapping to her battles with body dysmorphia and the double standards in the fashion industry, she has faced numerous challenges. However, Kaleem's openness and candidness bring these issues to the forefront, sparking conversations and inspiring change.
As an influential figure in the fashion world, Kaleem is actively working to redefine beauty standards, promote inclusivity, and prioritize mental health. Through her entrepreneurial pursuits, she showcases her versatility and creativity, encouraging others to pursue their passions fearlessly.
Mushk Kaleem's journey serves as a powerful reminder that success is not solely determined by external factors but by personal growth, resilience, and the ability to rise above adversity. Her story is an inspiration to all, urging individuals to embrace their uniqueness, challenge societal norms, and strive for a more inclusive and compassionate world.
