Sonia Ahmed- President of Miss Pakistan World

Being Pakistani no matter where - Sonia Ahmed

2012-01-27T04:16:00.000-08:00

In this world of globalization, where nationality really does not matter, I think there is an important statement one makes when one represents his/her culture. Being in India for the past 2 months, I have introduced myself as a Pakistani very proudly. And every Pakistani must remember, that no matter where, one must be proud to be Pakistani and be the best representation of Pakistan.

I was in Mumbai and met some of the younger struggling actresses and someone in the party asked me how come I was dressed in a dress which is short and "sexy." The young struggling actress came to my defense and said that actually Pakistani girls are much more modern than they are perceived here in India! She then went on to say that while she was in Dubai she met a lot of Pakistani models who were no different than the models of Europe. And that the Indian models present there were much conservative.

Perception is what people have made about Pakistan. The labels of Extremism, Taliban, Fundamentalists are stuck to us Pakistanis but we must do our very best to enlighten people around us and make it a point to let them know that what image has been portrayed by the media is totally wrong. Media did the same thing to China, but the Chinese government proved them wrong. It is the duty of every Pakistan, be it Christian, Muslim, Sikh, Parsi or Hindu to make aware!

Being in India, I left an impression that Pakistani women are strong, well spoken and yes we can dress how ever we want to. Another well spoken lady who added more power to the representation while I was in India was Hina Rabani. She has a strong fan following in India and they think she is gorgeous and looks amazing in her simple yet sharp, "Shalwar Kameez." And to sum it all, Miss Veena Malik too showed that wearing all or nothing is not the main issue for Pakistani women. To each its own! And believe me Malik has a huge fan following in India and Pakistan! Every where I went, people were talking about Veena Malik, whether it be a politician, or lawyers or media!

Besides the men of Pakistan, our own women judge women on the basis of boldness, clothes and the number boyfriends a woman has. All this needs to be ignored when trying to look at the character of a woman. A woman is what comes out of her mouth and how she presents herself no matter what she wears or with who she is. A woman can look smart, sexy and yet very educated & sober even in a mini skirt.

We can only be enlightened when we get out of judging others on the basis of what one wears and their level of boldness. But coming back to "Being Pakistani" it must spell out as "Being Human."

So our neighboring country - India, whose media is often seen painting a negative image of Pakistan did get the taste of Pakistani women in the past three months! And hopefully it will be women like us, if not the men of Pakistan, who can create a strong and modern image of Pakistan to the world!

Love & Regards,

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World

Mumbai - Sonia Ahmed

2012-01-22T06:24:00.000-08:00

After travelling so much in North India, I went to Mumbai for only 5 days with a packed schedule but had so many things to do that within 5 days I felt as though nothing was completed...! So now my next trip will be to Mumbai again with the entire focus on Mumbai!

Here I am with some of my good friends from India!!!!!!

Love and Regards - Sonia Ahmed
President of Miss Pakistan World

Ajmer Sharif - The long route to a once in a lifetime journey!

2012-01-21T03:39:00.000-08:00

My trip to Ajmer was one of my final destinations to India, as without going to Ajmer my trip would have been unfinished! So I reached Delhi from Bombay and then headed to a good 6-8 hours road trip to Ajmer. One of the best trips I have ever had was to Jaipur City and Ajmer Dargah. I went to the land of my mother's ancestors. I heard the same language that was spoken from my mother's side and enjoyed every bit of the same food that is still cooked in my house due to my mother's side. I went crazy over shopping, but after spending over a few lakhs just in India, I had to control myself.

What was even more amazing was that people were recognizing me due to the fact that the media had reported about my trip to Ajmer! I am now in Delhi, and waiting for the final weeks to end, as then I will be back to Canada, and will hold the experience of a Pakistani in India for ever. I made friends and good friends, and will cherish them for life!!!!

Being a Pakistani has been great in India. I got a lot of respect and attention and people there are very curious about the women of Pakistan. I spoke on behalf of Veena Malik, I spoke on behalf of my own identity - Miss Pakistan World, I spoke on behalf of the India-Pakistan relations. I was asked about Gilani, Zardari, the Military rule, Musharraf, and for some reasons about Salman Rushdie. There media takes every opinion in an important way. People want to know what your opinion is!

I was proud of Veena Malik and her success. She is in the talks of every politician, media and entertainment. She represented Pakistan that time, and people of India saw Pakistan is a different way. A moderate outlook of Pakistan was created in Bombay by Veena Malik, in Chandigard by myself and the mere fact that Pakistan was heavily in politics was another factor that made Pakistan even more popular in India. These past two months, have been only about Pakistan in India!!!!!!

Love and Peace,.

Sonia Ahmed

President - Miss Pakistan World

Sonia Ahmed - Shoot in India

2012-01-20T04:39:00.000-08:00

Birla Temple - Jaipur, Rajasthan

2012-01-20T03:42:00.001-08:00

Beautiful Jaipur City - The land of my mother's ancestral side!

2012-01-19T23:41:00.001-08:00

Farm life Experience - India

2012-01-19T23:10:00.000-08:00

Mumbai Parties - Sonia Ahmed

2012-01-19T22:31:00.000-08:00

Ajmer Sharif and Haji Ali - Sonia Ahmed

2012-01-19T21:28:00.000-08:00

I had a great time visiting the two most holy places in India for Muslims. Haji Ali Dargah and Ajmer Sharif! I asked for what I wanted in life and hopefully my wishes may come true! I stood there, got a beautiful Chadar and flowers to put on the dargah, got the "Jhara" as well! Overall an amazing experience!

The beautiful Agra Fort!

2011-12-20T22:58:00.000-08:00

They say that Shah Jehan was kept captive here at the Agra Fort and he did not mind it too much, as he could see the view of the Taj Mahal from the tower where he was kept captive....!!! Agra Fort is gorgeous!!! Hats off to the greatest Mughul empire that has created such beauty from an Islamic point of view!!!!

The Taj Mahal - Sonia Ahmed

2011-12-18T22:09:00.001-08:00

"I wish I was Mumtaz Mahal," that was what I was thinking ever since I laid my eyes on the Taj Mahal. One must know that if there is a question in mind about love, then the Taj Mahal is the answer to what love must actually be about. All I can say is that I had the most amazing experience of my life....!!!!!

Spiritual Time with the Ladhak Girls!

2011-12-07T05:50:00.001-08:00

The Tribune & Indian Express news - Sonia Ahmed

2011-12-04T21:57:00.001-08:00

It was again amazing to come on the front page of the Tribune and in the Indian Express News papers today! Saw that the curiosity had picked up in other papers as well!!! So far great! No complaints... India has been amazing!!

Honored at Chandigarh Press Club!

2011-12-04T02:42:00.001-08:00

Today was an interesting day as I was busy at the Chandigarh Press Club, meeting Indian Express, Tribune India and other newspapers and talking about Miss Pakistan World, Veena Malik and about Pakistan! It was a great honor for me to meet them, as I was honored with a bouquet of roses and a plaque. Thank you once again for the love and the great memories!

Head to head with Dolly Bindra!

2011-12-03T16:45:00.001-08:00

Years ago, I went head to head with Nadia Khan on GEO TV and this time it was deja vu for me, as I had an Indian version of Nadia Khan a.k.a Dolly Bindra! My goodness, I had no idea what I could have been against. Anyways, to cut the story short, I came on Aaj Tak News and Tez Khabarain and on both I made sure that a strong message was sent to her about Pakistani artists.

Veena Malik was the subject and also the main subject was that why Pakistani artists are supposed to work in India. The videos will come out this week and I will add it on.

Love and Light,
Sonia Ahmed (who is having a blast in India)

At the Patiala Dukhniwar Sahib - Patiala, Punjab!

2011-12-01T17:23:00.001-08:00

At the Patiala Dukhniwar Sahib - Patiala, Punjab!

I had a wonderful experience at the Patiala Dukhniwar Sahib - Patiala, Punjab! The most serene and beautiful place with its gorgeous structure and a truly spiritual experience. I felt so at peace and enjoyed walking around the waters!I would say if anyone came to Patiala, Punjab this is a must visit place for added peace in life. Besides my shopping of Patiala suits, this was my main high lights!

Tourism Chandigarh Style- Sonia Ahmed

2011-11-30T16:40:00.001-08:00

Had a good time traveling like a tourist, even though by now I did not feel I was a tourist anymore. I have come to know so many people in a short time, that its unbelievable! Here are some photos my driver took of me at the Rose Garden and Rock Garden in Chandigarh, Punjab, India!

PTC News Interview (Television)

2011-11-29T21:48:00.001-08:00

I had an early start today and the first thing was a schedule 9 AM interview with PTC News. Topics covered were the attitude of the younger generation and how they preceive Pakistan and India. We discussed about how each side loves the products and services of across the borders. We discussed about Miss Pakistan World, Mr. Pakistan World and how a Miss Pakistan will be making an appearance next month! So overall a great start!

Here is a photo with the PTC reporter!

Love and Regards- Sonia Ahmed

Dainik Bhaskar Interview

2011-11-29T18:51:00.001-08:00

This is the interview with Dainik Bhaskar! Early morning my room service boy came running with a copy of the paper and said madam jee this is you with his eyes very bright and excited! I looked and laughed and said yes yes its me. He was so happy to be giving me my tea today, as he understood that now he is dealing with someone who came in their main newspaper!

I liked this article the most as its in Hindi and it wrote things that I wanted to convey about the very conservative side of Pakistan and the fact that I can read it myself is amazing!

Here am I on the front cover of the Dainik Bhaskar!

Hindustan Times and on page 3!

2011-11-28T18:23:00.001-08:00

Hindustan Times and on page 3!

Well, my first 4 days and I am on the cover of Hindustan Times, City News. So everything looks good...!! Here are a few pictures!

Love & Light,
Sonia Ahmed

Interview with The Dainik Baskar!

2011-11-28T11:18:00.001-08:00

I was sitting near a tree at 12 midnight & saw this picture!

Finished a wonderful interview by one of India's leading newspapers - Dainik Baskar! Met the Editor of the paper as well as the wonderful journalist!!!!

The whole office was very happy to see me and very excited that a Pakistani woman has come all the way to India. They talked about Veena Malik with me and asked me all kinds of questions as well.

Veena Malik will be choosing a husband on live tv here in India and its a big deal and everyone is talking about it. Felt good that Indians have recognized Strong Pakistani women.

There is so much love here, that its amazing!

Regards - Sonia Ahmed
President of Miss Pakistan World

With the lovely journalist!

With Dainik Baskar journalist!

I'm in India and liking it! - Sonia Ahmed

2011-11-27T21:26:00.001-08:00

I'm in India and liking it! - Sonia Ahmed

I always knew that I would come to India one day but never thought that this day would be coming in 2011! Well my journey started from Delhi Airport and from there I was on my way to Punjab state! I traveled by car, ate at Dhabas, and landed in Chandigarh. I am doing non stop media and meeting a lot of well know celebs here. I can't believe that I have this amazing chance to finally get the right coverage. Also my Miss Pakistan's who are busy in beauty pageants and working hard will be now shifting here. Guess what? For more assignments. One movie on its way and much more. I am on my way soon to see the Wagah Border and to experience everything as a Pakistani on the other side of the border.

Here is my photo with PTC host Baljit Balli and Comedian Jaspal Bhatti! Jaspal Bhatti and his wife have contributed a lot in the world of entertainment, and the man who I used to watch on TV for his famous mimickery has now met me, spent time with me and has gotten to know what I do in Canada!

I will add as many experiences as I can! I can say today that I am so blessed to have great friends to support me in every way!!!

Sometimes, one gets lost in various things without seeing what's in front of them. I am blessed in this day and this life, to have amazing friends, who support me with just a spoken request from my end! I am having butterflies in my stomach everyday as everyday is a day filled with amazing people here, shopping like crazy as I guess India Tourism will owe me one for spending so much money on clothes and tons of other stuff!!

This is just the first few days, 60 days left now!!! I want to give lots of love to Attia Bano who is doing her 2nd pageant and Sanober Hussain who is doing extremely well in Miss Earth 2011!

Wishing everyone in the world best of the best!
India Pakistan Zindabad!

My Miss Pakistans and international pageants!

2011-11-20T16:51:00.001-08:00

My Miss Pakistans and international pageants!

The Miss Pakistan World 2011 pageant took place September 9th, 2011 and it was the 9th Miss Pakistan World. This year I had made up my mind in regards to getting international pageants accomplished for my wonderful winners.

The first dip was taken by Attia Bano, Runner up 2, Miss Pakistan Globe 2011 and currently Queen of Pakistan 2011. From Canada, to Albania and then to Germany, Attia made her mark in the European pageants. The whole of Europe today knows of the existence of Miss Pakistan World and its delegates. My second contestant, my winner Sanober Hussain, Miss Pakistan World 2011 and now Miss Pakistan Earth 2011. One of the tallest girls to have ever gone to represent Pakistan in an international pageant.

Both Attia Bano and Sanober Hussain are on board a plane as we speak and both going to international pageants. Sanober is landing in Manila, Philippines and Attia in Berlin, Germany! I am excited as in just under 2 months, I have covered 3 international pageants and making it to the Grand Slam pageant of Miss Earth 2011.

I wish both my girls best of luck for representing Pakistan and I pray and hope all things turn out well. My third girl is now in training and will soon be off covering ground in the US of A.

I thank my luck and my year! Personally I am so pleased to see all of them have this great experience and the fact that they want to still do more, amazes me! I am off soon on a long journey and will give you all reports of what I'm doing day by day!!!!

Love you all!!

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World

Explore. Dream. Discover.- Sonia Ahmed

2011-11-07T20:05:00.000-08:00

Twenty years from now you Will Be more disappointed by the things That you did not do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the Bowlin. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.? - Mark Twain

This was a post that I stole from Attia Bano, Miss Pakistan Globe 2011, and I thought to myself, what if I never did Miss Pakistan? It's been nine years and I remember myself as this university kid who wanted to represent Pakistan in a different way! I started off first shyly approaching the Pakistan table at the University of Ottawa's cultural week. I saw that there were posters of Mecca and Madina. And coming from Kuwait myself, I asked the girl who was the President then, as to why does she have Mecca and Madina as her representation of Pakistan. And then I advised her that she got mixed up between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. I wondered to myself, as to why they would post a photo of Mecca and Madina - Great Holy places that belong to all Muslims. I saw the table for other nations and saw color, posters of beautiful monuments, amazing costumes and I had a very confused look on my face. I thought why would Pakistan's table have the 2 Holy places of Saudi Arabia whereas countries like Turkey, Kuwait, Morocco, only showed their culture. It was a cultural week, wasn't it?

I understood that the youth (which was me at that time) comprised of highly confused, post Zia-Ul-Haq kids. Yes we were kids when Zia took over Pakistan and yes we were told not to do drastic things in front of others, and hence we had a very strict, view of Pakistan and that was that Pakistan= Religion and Pakistan is religion!

So yes, I took this very difficult task of pulling the bull by its horn and changing those posters into what Pakistani culture is all about - color, dresses, languages, dance, music, arts, poetry & beauty! Let me tell you one thing, the President of PSA (Pakistani Student's Association) hated my guts, as I was trying to bring down her chances of getting married (if I managed to change PSA to Modern PSA) :P So as most normal Pakistanis do and that is to abandon & disown, she abandoned my idea of a fashion show! Not only that most Pakistani girls were told not to perform at the University's Cultural Week Pakistani Fashion Show organized by 21 year old Sonia Ahmed. Well, as usual I found myself alone and so I was heard talking about the fashion show to a few non Pakistani friends, and a Mongolian girl came up to me and asked me, "Is it okay for me to take part?" I went blank and uttered yes sure you can! Right next to her a girl from Prince Edward Island said, "Oh please please may I ?" and then it was a ripple effect. Within a matter of seconds I had a good 7 -8 girls including myself and one more modern Pakistani girl who was hated for her guts as well!

This is me on the far right in the blue, again surrounded by the boys who helped me! As soon as I came in the PSA, I made sure there were posters of color, beauty, culture and a lot more. Our flag! That was the poster I got printed which said, "Pakistan Zindabad!"

This was my first fashion show in the University of Ottawa! You can see the Mongolian Girl, the Prince Edward Island girl and yes forgot to mention that there were 5 Pakistani boys who supported me. The modern Pakistani girl in on the far left (the second from the left). You can see the news channel coverage we got!!!( right hand side)

So here is the beauty of what I want to mention!

When the day come of the fashion show, the whole university was talking about it, because me being the publicist, took my own pocket money (OSAP- Student loan) and invested in printing posters and flyers and went around the whole university from Business to Arts to Science to stick posters which loudly read, "21st Century Pakistani Woman Fashion Show." Now the president of PSA was always looking at me yawningly as if saying, "Try it, you will so regret it." So the show was scheduled to start at 2:30 and lo behold at 1:30 PM there were about 500 students standing, sitting and waiting for the show to begin. Not only that we had student bunk schools and come from Carleton University as they heard about the first fashion show happening for Pakistani!

And here comes the part that pisses me the most but amazes me as well. The President of PSA suddenly changed and started taking initiative, she came up to me and said, "Sonia I will announce it and talk about the clothes." I smiled and said sure. It was one of the best and coolest fashion shows, and yes the President of PSA last moment changed her mind to be in the lime light and hence moral of the story, Explore, Dream and Discovered.

That day, Pakistan was truly represented, with color, beauty, style, and culture. Mecca and Medina are our religious side and there is a time for everything. We made it on the cover of the University Newspaper with raving reviews! My work was applauded and I for the first time was called an events organizer. When I tested the waters, and found that it was so easy to do what I wanted in my community, I began the even tougher road to establishing Miss Pakistan World. And no doubt I still find pebbles and bricks in my pathway, but I keep going, as I remember my time, my struggle and the mere fact that its so easy to abandon someone instead of supporting that person. Its so easy to make a group against someone, rather than solving an issue. It's so easy to assume, point at someone, rather to help that person!

The breaking of the spell.. the beginning of international pageants!

2011-10-24T20:00:00.000-07:00

I always want my girls to go forward in the field of pageantry, this is not only great for the company but also for these girls who want to go forward in the world of pageants! I remember watching an interview of the Miss Universe 1994, Sushmita Sen, who is one of my favorites from the South Asian sub-continents as a role model and she stated, that she did not have sponsors to get her evening gown ready and it was then she begged one of her friends to lend her an evening gown and to match it she took her black stockings and made gloves out of it. The reason I'm discussing this is because this shows the want, the passion to do something even though there was a tight budget & restrictions. This passion I have seen in a some girls from the Miss Pakistan World club!

2011 is another year and a great year! My winner from Oslo, Norway - Attia Bano who has now attained the title of, "Miss Pakistan Globe 2011," is in Tirana, Albania, representing Pakistan for the first time in Miss Globe 2011! I am so proud and happy!!!

I say the spell has been broken and the international pageants have begun, as last year the Mrs. Pakistan World category did an amazing job in getting titles...!!! But the Miss Pakistan World category slowed down, but this year there is an upward turn in the graph and I'm happy to see that once again!!!

Good luck Attia, and I hope this experience is amazing for you as it will help you grow and make new friends and have a blast plus you are representing your country Pakistan!!!!

Love and Regards- Sonia Ahmed
President of Miss Pakistan World & Mrs. Pakistan World

To my community & country Pakistan

2011-10-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

To my community & country Pakistan - Finding fault with others is the pastime of the ignorant. For the man of understanding looks to praise and uplift.

I write the above for my people, the people of Pakistan. No matter what aim we all have in life, we have to motivate each other, whether its reading the Quran, or acting in a movie, or learning classical Kathak to whatever one may chose in life. Leg pulling, demoralizing and demeaning has become the culture of some people, and that sort of an attitude spreads and becomes a nation.

If I find a little mustard seed of talent in anyone, I try to uplift them and give them whatever I can from my end. I try to make sure that their talent and art is appreciated. In our community we need to praise and uplift a lot of people, as they have been burdened with the false rules and laws put in place by the ignorant and the fundamentalists. Extremists are ignorant people, they don't believe in humanity and they always discriminate people on the basis of caste, culture, creed, religion, color and many other ways and form. We have to change ourselves.

We are beautiful people, with a gift of Beauty, Talent, Urdu, Poetry, Ghazals, Blessed voices, and an amazing mix of people of all traditions and culture, from the Greeks, to the Arabs, Iranians, Chinese, Portuguese, Russian, Afghanistani and the beautiful sea that makes us into a Land of Beauty - Pakistan! We should be proud of history, traditions, values but never impose hard core beliefs on anyone. We need to draw a fine line and respect people for who they are! Pakistan has Christians, Parsis, Hindus, Sikhs, Jews, Buddhists, and many more religions, all have to amalgamate into a beautiful cocktail!!!

Hence my message to my friends, is that lets encourage people or at least one person everyday and then see the difference in our community. Let's do that! Slowly slowly things will change and our community will become a thriving community full of positive and happy vibes.

Let's all focus on the positive and help people, if not monetary wise but emotional wise! We are a community that is emotionally deprived and we need to focus on that! We need to be there in words at least, that is the least we can do!

Love and lots of Love,

Sonia Ahmed

President - Miss Pakistan World, Mr. Pakistan and Mrs. Pakistan

www.soniaahmed.ca

www.soniaahmedofficial.com

Miss Pakistan World 2011 Magazine

2011-10-01T14:09:00.000-07:00

Miss Pakistan World 2011 is the 9th Magazine published by Touchgate Global Inc., this was a celebration of 9 years and is one of the best magazines published out of the 9 years. This year a tribute was paid to those people who are usually behind the scene and are working with positive and high spirits for the pageant. This was a celebration of their contribution to change Pakistan and to change the negativity of the image that a few extremists have created. Strong women in all fields like entertainment, personal development and fitness were a few to have graced the cover of the magazine. Miss Pakistan World is not about just the contestants or the winners who contribute 10-12 months to this pageant, its about the people who have remained stable through thick and thin for the very existence of this controversial pageant. This pageant has changed many lifestyles, minds, thoughts and brought some light over the women of Pakistani origin in North America and as far as Europe and Asia. So a salute to those who are truly contributing to the name Miss Pakistan World and spreading a good name for the company and its associates.

A new list of achievers have been adjusted and brought forward, as every year the company assesses the Wall of Fame and only those who have contributed to change are put forth in history to be remembered.

The most successful show - Miss Pakistan World & Mr. Pakistan World

2011-09-16T20:50:00.001-07:00

Yes, its been a week and I'm still feeling the warmth of the good wishes and pats on my back for an amazing event! Even I can't believe I pulled it off!!!

While watching it live, I was pinching myself, and thinking, did I arrange for all this to happen? Hectic as it was backstage, and how dramatically crazy it was getting for me, I managed to pull this amazing 9th year off without a single glitch.

I sometimes think, why the media does not come when the event is just perfect!!! But no controversy!! I wonder if that disappointed some media people! But hey the winner is from the UK, first runner up from the USA and the second runner up from Norway! Loved all my girls but more the boys.

My Mr. Pakistan World boys were my hidden strength for this event. I recently wrote on my facebook page that I felt like a mother of 9 boys! I felt so secure, and stable with my boys. I love all of them every bit. Today the event stands stronger with the boys as my shield. It felt good. Automatically we women were not alone this time. And everyone kept quiet as soon as the boys were on stage. It felt so good and I still cannot describe this feeling.

Pakistan being a male dominated society needed the men to be by our (women's) side to fight this battle. Today I won after 9 years with my 9 boys! I am still basking and gloating about this amazingly perfect event! Now there is no one who can say we were just the women wanting to do something in pageantry. We have the support of our amazingly talented Pakistani boys! Mr. Pakistan World is the best thing that has happened for Miss Pakistan World. I love you guys a lot and yes we all did an amazing Miss Pakistan World and Mr. Pakistan World.

Thank you all for all the best wishes and thank you all for all the love!!

Love and Regards - Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World & Mr. Pakistan World

Tired - but going - 15 days left

2011-08-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

As the time comes closer, I am running around, getting very very tired. The main part of running an event is controlling. This time last year, I was done with the show. The show was controversial but it was done! It was done in a controlled manner and it went smooth. A few hiccups if controlled are not hiccups any more!

So as there are 15 days left to the event, things are running smooth. Our magazine that we have been working on for the past three months, will be getting published pretty soon. So yes the great stress of almost everything.

There is a saying, that is you are not stressed in life, then you are practically dead. So stress is good. All I know is that after the show is done, I am going to the spa and staying there for one week. Then I am getting into hot yoga for 2 months straight. And dedicating my life to working out again, as I have had a good 2 months gap, and don't really feel all that great!

I have to admit that I am eating, Chana Bhaturas, Mango Lassis, Kulfis, Ladoos and God knows what else my sponsors feed me every time I go to visit them for the pageant! I promise no more of the ikky gooeey oily fried stuff, but only after the 9th of September 2011, as saying no to Pakistanis or Indians is like disrespecting them especially when they offer food!!!!

As much as my sponsors, media and everyone else are amazing... I will quit unhealthy eating after the 9th of September 2011!

No doubt, I have met some cool people these days and my ride for this year's event is tiring but enjoyable!!!! I am really having a blast. And the bigger blast will be to work with the Mr. Pakistan World boys!!!! Yahooo!!! What a breather! And of course the 2011 girls, who I am looking forward to work with!

Exciting, tiring and very tiring but soon it will be over!

Love all,

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World

President of Mr. Pakistan World

President of Mrs. Pakistan World

Countdown begins and I'm getting nervous

2011-08-17T19:40:00.000-07:00

Yes yes yes, I have about 3 weeks left for the Miss Pakistan World 2011 pageant, but I am more nervous about the Mr. Pakistan World pageant. After 9 years there will be a mix of boys as well.... !!! But hey, one thing for sure, the show will be fun, with cool performers and amazing speakers of the political party of Canada as well as may be a surprise guest!

So nervous yes, excited yes, but sad because all the fun will end in just 4 days! And then I will have nothing to do :(

But I am positive and hopefully things will be great Inshallah!!!!!

Love Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World

Mr. Pakistan World 2011 - Happy independence Day!

2011-08-14T22:20:00.000-07:00

From Miss Pakistan World to Mrs. Pakistan World and now I am the President of the Mr. Pakistan World 2011 pageant. I don't even know why I say things for fun and then that fun becomes reality. For each pageant that I have created for Pakistan, it all started with a sort of a joke and a "What if."

Yes, guys are having the first Mr. Pakistan World 2011 with handsome Pakistani men from Canada become a part of this all male competition. It will be an interesting year for me as I never dealt with boys before and now it will be Miss Pakistan World and Mr. Pakistan World all together!

The cool thing about this is that this show is completely based on local Pakistani talent. We don't have an ounce of anything that is out of the Pakistani community. The music is Pakistan, the talent is Pakistan, the host is Pakistan, judges are a mix and audiences are a mix!

But overall expect a fun event! Pray for my success and the success of my community which I always am adamant to change. And today with the addition of boys in our very first male model competition, I have raised the bar a notch up. I am excited too, and truly because of the addition of the Pakistani male models! It will be so cool!

Love you all,

Sonia Ahmed

President of Mr. Pakistan World :)

What to expect from Miss Pakistan World 2011?

2011-08-07T21:41:00.000-07:00

I am glad that this is my 9th year and I am hoping my final year of struggle, as I'm predicting that after this things will be smoother. I am so proud of my strong Pakistani support via sponsors, judges and audiences this year!!!

Miss Pakistan World 2011 will be fun and exciting plus we will have Mr. Pakistan World as well happening. I am so glad to see such nice guys from the community and finally it will be a break for me, as girls and girls has now evened out with girls and boys! :P

So many international pageants coming up soon, and I will be busy with travel and making sure these winners go places.

Pakistan has changed, and I am a bit more relaxed now. I really wanted to see all this 9 years ago but I'm happy that its happening this year!

Loads of Love to my people my beloved Pakistanis around the world, and I hope I make you proud by doing an amazing 9th show!

Regards- Sonia Ahmed

Miss Pakistan World 2011 - Commercial

2011-07-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

Had a series of fun stuff happening

2011-07-19T21:56:00.000-07:00

This month of July was truly a fun month. From attending many events to meeting a holy person, I had a blast. The whole summer seems so hot as well as so busy that there is no time to breathe! The Miss Pakistan World 2011 is coming up and I am also trying my level best to introduce the first ever Mr. Pakistan World. So hopefully, things go well.

I feel much happier and at a better place, and my surroundings have changed too! I always believe change is good and change is for the better, so I have tried my best to change in most ways.

Pakistan is doing so much better in the entertainment industry and our dramas, our songs and our upcoming movies! I am pleased to see such improvement. Especially Hum TV, what a fabulous channel!

I am very happy that Mrs. Pakistan World 2011 Nyla Hasan did her best to promote both Miss and Mrs. Pakistan World! It was great to see so much publicity for ourselves. Events were great as well!! Even meeting Waseem Akram, who is a legend in cricket!!! All these wonderful people and their wonderful energy.

But now my time begins, and yes I'm rushing and am extremely busy with so many things with the 9th Annual Miss Pakistan World 2011! 9 years have passed wow!!! I still can't believe it and finally the number that I like "9" has arrived!!!!

May God keep my event alive, may my people prosper, may Pakistan be the best in entertainment and may Pakistani film and entertainment live long forever. We have great artists, entertainers and we will do well!!! In my lifetime, I want to see my country's image change and Pakistan to be like our best friend's Turkey! I am proud of my countrymen for changing so quickly and almost bringing back the Pakistan that my mom and dad were a part of, the Pakistan of the 60's and 70's! We are almost there, just a couple more years and we will be perfect!

Love always.

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World

The 7 C’s of Success for the Miss Pakistan World pageant by Sonia Ahmed

2011-07-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

The 7 C’s of Success By the Corporate Vice President of a Plastic Manufacturing Ltd., a Toronto-based mono and co-extruded film supplier was used to formulate the same need for the success of the Miss Pakistan World pageant. Please read and understand how we want to succeed with the crowned winners- By Sonia Ahmed, President of Miss Pakistan World & Mrs. Pakistan World.

The Seven C's of Success

COMPETENCE: The need to maintain a high level of training and development to ensure a highly-skilled workforce and safe environment. We need highly skilled individuals to take this title forward. For that we train our contestants in 3 main areas: Understanding Pakistan and all its history & the theory of the pageant. Each individual is sent packages to study and make sure that she is aware of the news that effect Pakistan. The third training that she gets is within the week that she is at the pageant. All aspects from training via seminars, motivational speaking to health training as well as overall media training is provided. The individual who grasps this and goes forward with this into the normal world will be in the know about her ethnicity and the good and bad faced by the community. Our main reason is to find a strong individual to take the community forward.
CONFIDENCE: All employees must share passion and enthusiasm for the company, its products and its customers. We want to see the excitement from that individual who is crowned. The enthusiasm must be from her wanting to go forward with the title of Miss Pakistan World. She must be wanted to promote it and wanting to be promoted with the title. She should have the confidence of representing her community.
COMMITMENT: You need to be committed to your customers' success. This means that the crowned winner must be committed to her people, her success and the company’s overall success. Her success means that the company will succeed. If she slacks, the company slacks, and if the company slacks the community too, will notice. Be committed, it’s not that difficult. Show your interest and pull the company by its horns and move it to better directions. You will be remembered and appreciated.
CREATIVITY: The need for a supportive, creative and open environment where every employee can constructively share his or her ideas. We work as a team, as a company we would like to grow with you and take each other to heights. A lot can be done but the initiative must come from you. We as a company want to see that in you first. Don’t wait for things to happen, make it happen! The right individual will be coming up with all sorts of ideas and creative ways of representing her title. If winners think that, winning is it, then they are in the wrong, and through this we are educating all to think otherwise. The whole year is winning, not one day.
COMPETITIVE EDGE: Understand what characteristics of your business differentiate your company from the competition, and how these differences add value for your customers. Having a competitive edge grows you as an individual. Competitions are healthy and it is important. International pageants are a very healthy way for competitions, and it grows Pakistan. Pakistan needs this, Miss Pakistan World needs this and hence the crowned Miss Pakistan World needs this! And we want to represent Pakistan in international pageants to bring Pakistan’s name on the map. We have won titles in the past and we want to bring winning titles, so that the next girl can go forward looking at the previous winner as an example.
COMMUNICATION: All levels of staff must communicate clearly and often to ensure a timely and effective flow of information. Communication is the key to success, and communication through ideas, interest, wanting to go further, wanting to bring a positive change without breaking the rules of the pageant, and communicating with the appointed officers to discuss what can be done is important. Respect must be shown at all times as any disrespect will result in termination of the title. We want you to speak and to speak in the interest of the company.
CONTINUITY: Everyone needs to be reading from the same business script. We all want to be on one tone and one pace. Everyone must feel the same, and continue with the same manuscript that the company of Miss Pakistan World stands for. We believe in Pakistan moving forward in the world of arts and entertainment & pageantry is one form of it and hence we want to continue with it and keep it alive. We want the crowned winner to play that important role and take it on her shoulders for that one year. But it will not end there, as a former winner; she needs to go further in the years to come, as a support system and back up for the new individuals who are vying to be Miss Pakistan World. This is a responsibility, an honor and what counts is what you give to this honorable title. There is a wall of fame on our site, and only those who have kept the company in their best interests will be honored there. History will only be remembered with the ones who worked for the company, not the ones who worked for that one day only!
READ: All vying contestants must read this as the whole year depends on the winner and the runner ups. We want proactive girls, someone who can come up with ideas to take this further and make our name as well as the name of Pakistan shine!

Love you all and best wishes for a moderate and amazing Pakistan to all fellow Pakistanis around the world!!

Sonia Ahmed

President

Miss Pakistan World

Mrs. Pakistan World

Meeting with Wasim Akram

2011-07-02T00:08:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Wasim Akram, and it was refreshing seeing a very moderate side of Pakistan once again. Akram, was well spoken and polished and did an amazing job in representing Pakistan via the RBC platform.

Here are some photos with this great legend!

Bollywood in Toronto!

2011-06-24T17:51:00.000-07:00

Miss Pakistan World - The 7 C's of Success

2011-06-11T00:10:00.000-07:00

Winning is the easy step, but completing a year is a tough one. Girls come to win, and the one who wins, thinks that after winning it is practically, "The End." That's where the pageantry world proves her wrong!!! Winning is not everything and this saying has been heard again and again. It has to be understood that the title is a duty to keep. It still has to be earned after the winning, if not shown any sort of a commitment there is only one consequence and that is losing that earned and respected title.

There are the 7 C's of Success. This is not my theory but the theory of the President of a Manufacturing firm, that makes plastic. While I was reading a magazine, I came across this article and hence thought how it related to the pageant world. So I am sharing it with you all and especially those girls who are now vying to become Miss Pakistan World 2011:

COMPETENCE: The need to maintain a high level of training and development to ensure a highly-skilled workforce and safe environment. ( Which means she has to be proactive and needs to want to do things)
CONFIDENCE: All employees must share passion and enthusiasm for the company, its products and its customers. (confidence in the field of Miss Pakistan World)
COMMITMENT: You need to be committed to your customers' success. (In our case, commitment to the company Miss Pakistan World)
CREATIVITY: The need for a supportive, creative and open environment where every employee can constructively share his or her ideas. (Needs to be proactive, share ideas, again wants to do things)
COMPETITIVE EDGE: Understand what characteristics of your business differentiate your company from the competition, and how these differences add value for your customers. (Needs to keep track of other things, around her, anything that she considers competition in the pageant world)
COMMUNICATION: All levels of staff must communicate clearly and often to ensure a timely and effective flow of information. (Open up with the company, and make it her own, and speak in a respected manner to the organization)
CONTINUITY: Everyone needs to be reading from the same business script. (Follow the company rules, those have been in place for a reason, be in sync with the company, not go against it)

End of May and beginning of crazy running around

2011-05-22T19:41:00.001-07:00

Well, it's May 2011, and after hectic events with the Mrs. Pakistan World pageant, we are just a few months away from the 9th Annual Miss Pakistan World 2011 pageant! I hope everything turns out well, and I hope this year I get an amazing group of girls! That is all I really wish for! A good group of girls means a great Miss Pakistan World for us and the Pakistani community!

So this year, got to know a lot of people and moreover had a lot of fun! I got a winning title for Pakistan, via the Mrs. Pakistan World pageant and that was a complete win! I am very happy to learn everyday and even though, sometimes, there are ups and downs, the experience that I get out of it, keeps me going. I am happy to have good people around me these days and their support has been tremendous.

Lots of fun events coming to Toronto, Canada this year, so excited about that. My favorite singers, Atif Aslam and Ali Zafar are coming as well. So am really excited to see them too...! Carrassauga festival kicks starts on June 4th 2011, and this year I am very happy to announce that the Mrs. Pakistan World and Miss Pakistan World company will be a part of it representing Pakistan. So nice to see so many fun things happening and proud that we are part of it!!!!!

Love always,

Sonia Ahmed

Events and events, and had fun in all of them

2011-05-16T21:29:00.000-07:00

Love always,

Sonia Ahmed :)

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan in Toronto, Canada- What a wonderful time

2011-05-05T20:16:00.001-07:00

WITH RAHAT FATEH ALI KHAN

It was a wonderful experience watching Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and his good 15 plus member team come from Pakistan to perform around the world. I was backstage watching, and having a wonderful time. What amazed me even more was that the whole team was from Pakistan!

The show was a complete success and I had an internal satisfaction, that an amazing man did an amazing show and the entire event was a sold out event!

The night went like a dream with each song with the qawals in the background.

As a Pakistani, I was happy and to see all the main artists come from Pakistan, enhancing the i

mage of Pakistan which is a very good feeling. We as Pakistanis are trying our best out of Pakistan to showcase Pakistan in a very good way. Whether we do events like Miss Pakistan World, Mrs. Pakistan World or bring our artists to perform here from Pakistan. All these are things that keep us close to Pakistan as well as enhances our industry - Lollywood. With all the efforts from strong Pakistani people, Lollywood will do well one day. Our music world is at its best already! Now all we need is a bit more work in our other sections.

Soon within 5 years time, Pakistan's entertainment industry will be the best in the whole of South Asia. Already our television dramas are amazing. Hum TV has been the best in dramas. Coke studio also added a lot of flavour on TV One. Talk show with Noor, Sahir Lodhi, Maani, Shaista and many more have brought life into the television world! Cooking shows with the flavors of Lahore, Karachi and many other city cuisines, have shown the true Mughul side of our country.

And of course our artists, like Atif Aslam, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and many more are pumping life and meaning into Pakistan! So again an overall amazing time, and Pakistan truly Zindabad!

Love always,

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World

Sonia Ahmed and Nyla Hasan Interview with Rogers Daytime TV

2011-05-01T13:47:00.000-07:00

Sonia Ahmed & Nyla Hasan Interview with Rogers Daytime TV

Rogers Daytime Interview - Had Fun

2011-04-14T08:34:00.000-07:00

Just came back from going live on Rogers Daytime TV. It was a fun experience and I did live after almost 2.5 years. If I had to choose between a recorded interview or a live one, I get immense energy doing a live one. It`s so much fun!!!!

Here are some pictures:

Love and Regards- Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World and Mrs. Pakistan World

Punjabi Events - Punjabi community

2011-04-13T21:35:00.000-07:00

These days the Punjabi community is buzzing with events, here are some photos of the Basakhi event:

Also met the PM, and had a great opportunity to shake hands with him, at the premier of the Bollywood Movie, ``Thank you``

Nadia Khan show banned in Dubai - My thoughts

2011-04-10T21:27:00.000-07:00

I was refraining to make a comment on this. But just thought I share my view. I was called by Nadia Khan in May 2008 to be on a live show and defend the fact that there needs to be a Miss Pakistan World. Well I did phenomenal on the live show, which included shutting her up many a times. And now after just 2.5 years, Nadia Khan`s show got banned and Nadia Khan has been replaced by Shaista Warsi.

Nadia Khan did not personally like me, because I had answers for every single question. I had trained that year`s Miss Pakistan World in how to talk, what to talk and how to combat every controversial question that may come out of her mouth. Anyways, after I left, Nadia Khan went on air saying a lot of wrong things. We were dropped to the airport late and hence missed our flight, and obviously, me being sick to my stomach, did everything to make sure that we could get our flight, which included losing my temper.

Now the airport plays an important role in this entire story. Nadia Khan stated that because I had an argument with a customer service flight center rep, we got arrested. A total false sentence made on their behalf. We spent 8 hours at the airport, and then the lazy GEO producers came to get us in the morning. Nadia Khan got a chance and announced on TV that we spent the night as we got arrested. I was unaware of the whole news, whereas our families were getting all upset here in Canada. Plus the mere fact that she would say something, was just unthinkable. And it was me who as a conversation was telling the GEO producers how rude the customer service rep was etc. Hey it was but natural of me to defend why we were late and how important it is for us to be on that flight, as the next flight was in 24 hours. Imagine, 24 hours!!!

Now why did Nadia Khan`s show got banned was because of the Dubai International Airport. A lot of people called me up saying that I had something to do with it, whereas it was all because of her usual false statements as well as making things personal. She thought she was Nadia Khan the invincible woman who could use her show to do anything.

Have a look at this video and you will see what she did. She took some one`s very personal matter, a fight between the husband and wife at the Dubai Airport, plus she goes screaming at the customer service reps at the airport, and then hence, there was a ban on her show for 6 months, as well as she was booted out. The husband of the Pakistani actress Noor brought a law suit on GEO. Now keep in mind, Noor a well known Pakistani actress married an Indian man who is a Hindu. Nadia Khan also goes on to say how she will show him as a Pakistani and how she will defend the respect of Pakistanis. There was no need for any racial remarks here, but she did so, again proving that she made it a personal issue.

I am no one to say much on this, but I can say one thing, what goes around comes around. She just had a taste of KARMA. We were two women at the Dubai international airport, all alone in middle east. I was very uneasy and wanted to get on my flight, which was missed because of the unprofessional attitudes of the GEO staff. And here after 2 years it is the same Dubai International airport, which started her downfall! Today she is divorced, from her second husband and no one knows much. She has not appeared on any TV shows or programs.

Luv - Sonia Ahmed

Non stop events have started - Sonia Ahmed

2011-04-10T10:52:00.000-07:00

Past two weeks have gone by without a break! It`s fine I guess!!! Here are some of my pics at the with an interview at TV One in Canada.

Weekly Voice Gala 2011:

Sonia Ahmed, interview with PTC Punjab News

2011-04-03T19:03:00.000-07:00

The Yummy Mummy Contest 2011

2011-04-03T15:55:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone, recently you must have heard a sort of a intrigued disturbance within the community. The reason being that a choreographer from Delhi, named Kaushik Ghosh came to Toronto, making sure that he established the Miss South Asia, Mrs. South Asia and low behold the "The Yummy Mummy Contest 2011." It was a fun contest and I was honored by judging the competition. Not only that, Mrs. Pakistan

World 2011, Nyla Hasa

n was a contestant, in the Yummy Mummy Contest 2011. She was lucky enough to win Runner up 1, position and yes, Pakistan got some elevation.

I'm always a believer that the Pakistani community should be a part of everything that moves. This is how important these events are for us. I saw about a good 6 Pakistanis take part in this event in a pool of about 40 contestants. It made me proud to see these few boys and girls and out of them, 2 were runner ups and 2 got sub titles.

Cricket and Pakistan always Zindabad

2011-04-02T20:58:00.000-07:00

March 2011 was a very busy month, especially with the Cricket World Cup. I am so proud of my nation Pakistan. I love my country even more. I salute Shahid Afridi for doing his best and after a long time, I saw Pakistani players play with their hearts. We came in the top 4 teams and that's an honor in itself. It is just like winning. My bets were on my other favorite team - Sri Lanka. I am a huge fan of Dilshan, Mahela, Malinga and Murlidharan. And being the best that they have been, they were unfortunately not able to win. But for me nothing has changed, as I consider my top two teams of the world the best there is, the best there was and the best there ever will be!! Sri Lankan cricketers will never be forgotten, as they helped Pakistan in its time of crisis and became the bigger people by not even passing one comment on Pakistan, unlike our other neighbors. Truly blessed to have friend like Sri Lanka for life. My love for my country has grown imensely, and now I will strive to be the best as a Pakistani and keep Pakistan's moderate culture alive. I think I myself needed that push, after Musharraf left Pakistan. Seeing the love of so many around the world for Pakistan, I am back on track and as said before, love my country, my religion and my people once again. I saw the Hindus, Sikhs and Christians of Pakistan pray for the win in cricket for only Pakistan. Such secularism and patriotism found in the land of Pakistan, has been seen after a very long time.

Pakistan wait, the good times have just started, we have all evolved as a nation and Jinnah's people. Jinnah even sacrificed his own family, so we cannot let his sacrifices go in waste! Pakistan Zindabad and Pakistan Pa-indabad!

Love always,

Sonia Ahmed

I will leave you with some of my favorite videos that has been historic in the eyes of Pakistan's history from my perspective:

CP 24 Studios - March 24, 2011

2011-03-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

I have been crazy busy in this month of March 2011. I had the opportunity to accompany Mrs. Pakistan World Nyla Hasan to the CP24 studios where 4.5 million viewers get tuned in from the Toronto area! It was a great experience as we met other guests which included a python and a Tarantula. The interview went great and the experience was amazing as well!

Here are some pictures!

Meeting with Kaushik Ghosh - India's ramp choreographer

2011-03-13T21:07:00.000-07:00

It was refreshing meeting one of India's well known choreographer today and what was bigger for me, was that besides training thousands of women in India on the ramp, he is now training the contestants of Mrs. Pakistan World as well as Mrs. Pakistan World 2011 - Nyla Hasan. What an honor for me, as I am having such a talented well renowned choreographer do such great work! So thought I share this all my friends.

The Express Tribune Pakistan speaks about Miss Pakistan World and Sonia Ahmed

2011-03-03T19:18:00.001-08:00

They say that no news is good news for the normal people, but for the media good news is no news. For Miss Pakistan World no controversy means no news. And that is the fate of this pageant for Pakistan, and why so? Because Pakistan is a controversial country and hence, news means something controversial. Amidst all the controversy, Pakistan has smartened up and has now been recognizing the Miss Pakistan World as another arm of their entertainment industry. I am happy! So good news and a non controversial news printed by our very own leading English Pakistani newspaper in Pakistan. I am honored! Thank you!

Pakistan's leading newspaper - The Express Tribune along with the International Herald Tribune, covered the first ever story of Miss Pakistan World and the President, Sonia Ahmed (myself). Here is the link to the news - http://tribune.com.pk/story/127030/miss-pakistan-world

Miss Pakistan World

By Ali Usman

Published: March 3, 2011

Sonia Ahmed, president of Miss Pakistan World, is focused on the upcoming event scheduled to take place this year in Toronto. PHOTO: PR

LAHORE:

Sonia Ahmed is one busy woman. With applications coming in from around the world, she has the enviable task of choosing the best and brightest from a host of female applicants. One of these ladies will end up wearing the crown of Miss Pakistan. For the past seven years, Canada-based Sonia Ahmed has been the president of Miss Pakistan World, and rightly now she is focused on the upcoming event scheduled to be held in Toronto in September, when the new Miss Pakistan will be chosen.

The only condition that one needs to fulfill to participate in the event is a Pakistani passport. Pakistani girls living abroad and having different nationalities are eligible to participate but they are required to show papers proving their Pakistani nationality.

Talking to The Express Tribune via e-mail, Sonia Ahmed said that she had originally planned to hold the event in Pakistan but that wasn’t possible due to security concerns. Speaking about the criteria on which the participants are judged she said, “the participants are judged on the basis of their speaking abilities, overall looks and a good proportionate body. We want a good figured contender, who can represent Pakistan on an international level in international pageants. There are two different panels that judge the contestants. The first panel are on the preliminary interview panel where each contestant is asked about 20-25 questions. The second panel is on the day of the pageant, where they judge the contestants, on the way they speak, the way they look, their talent, and finally on the way they perform”.

The judges themselves will be a motley lot. “We have lawyers, entertainers, publicists, entrepreneurs, doctors and others, who participate in the judging and become part of the process,” Sonia said.

This year’s contest may also have a surprise or two, as it’s likely that our own desi girls Meera, Resham, Reema and Veena Malik will participate. When asked which of these stars has the potential to win the crown, Sonia Ahmed said, “In my opinion, Veena Malik would deserve to represent Pakistan as Miss Pakistan, as she is not only fit, but is a strong speaker, and a great performer. The first runner up will be Reema, as she is well groomed and a great dancer who can also hold a conversation. Meera would likely get the runner up two position, as she is a good performer but lacks in the speaking department. And last but not least, runner up three will be Resham, as her overall looks are not very pageant-like, but her talent is undeniable. Veena will suit us as Miss Pakistan World, as she has a bold attitude towards life, and is a strong believer in women’s rights. That’s the type of woman we are looking for”. She said that the winner of the pageant, as well as the runner ups, will be gifted diamond jewellry, trips to international pageants, hotel accommodations, laptops and other such presents.

Sonia says the pageant will be quite a show, but also adds that a whole lot of work goes into it.

“The pageant process is a long one, where each contestant is groomed via the packages sent to them. The pageant organising takes place a good year ahead of the actual pageant date. My expectations would be always to exceed the standard set by last year’s show. I want a better event, a better crowd and a better group of girls and finally a better winner every year,” she declared.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 4^th, 2011.

Sonia Ahmed interview with ITV India- Part 1,2,3,4,5

2011-02-21T14:12:00.000-08:00

Veena Ki Jawani - The moral brigade and Miss Pakistan World

2011-01-28T22:05:00.000-08:00

Veena... Veena... Veena!!! As usual the hypocrites all had a word to say about this damsel who was invited to India to take part in the Big Boss Season 4 reality show. Why did she kiss Ashmit Patel so many times (on the cheek)? Why did she wear mini skirts? Oh, the shame Veena Malik has brought on Pakistan going to India and representing herself as a Pakistani. Pakistani women are supposed to be pure as Virgin Mary, Pakistani girls have to be simple, Pakistani girls have to wear burkas or if not burkas then shalwar kameez with 8 feet long chadar! And Veena Malik tarnished that pure Mother Mary image of Pakistani girls.

I was just amused with these Pakistani girls who claimed that out of Pakistan, a Pakistani woman should act the part of a pure, chaste and a good girl (keeping in mind no matter what she is actually from inside).

Anyways, my message is that whatever Veena Malik did was in her

own capacity, and mind you I fully support her kissing Ashmit Patel on the cheeks, or hugging him millions of times, as well as her wearing short skirts and shorts in the swimming pool. I was surprised when Syed Noor, the maker of all vulgar movies in Pakistan and supports his film work (which is totally fine by the way): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnqr28tyji4, spoke against Veena Malik. That was unbelievable to my ears! To my Indian friends, please go to youtube and just type Pakistani sexy dances, or even Pakistani Mujras and see what pops up. The glamour and glitz of Pakistani cinema, unsuitable for any Indian family, vulgar than any of the so called vulgar movies of India. Amazing though! Unique in its own way! And trust me this is just a decent video, that I have added. :P

Anyways, this is what Pakistan is! This is what Pakistani movies do majority of the time. Of course there are better movies being made, and better movies means less provocative dances and more family viewing. And trust me we as Pakistanis have left India way behind in the sexy dance moves. So yes this man, Syed Noor basically judged Veena Malik on a reality show & was against her being that way on national tv, but is okay with these adult content movies that are block busters hits in Pakistani cinemas. This is the Lollywood of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and yet the media and mullahs judged Veena Malik! Oh the hypocrisy and they do it openly! :P

Anyways, how is Miss Pakistan World involved in this Veena Malik controversy? We were asked by Hindustan Times & Times of India, as to what we think of this backlash that the Pakistani media has shown towards Veena! This is what we had to say:

So I guess after reading what we said, we have made it clear as to how we support Veena Malik, who is a strong individual and has faced media and mullahs and the other meddlers (The 3 M's).

If anyone missed Veena Malik bashing the Mullah, please do have a look:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXGLn5u4tRU - part 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bc2Gih6jaaE - part 2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDlE6pHN3Dg - part 3

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAwLsUo5G4w - part 4

and when Veena bashed Syed Noor the Lollywood Film director:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flupRQ6tbD8&feature=related - Part 1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YavvrJPpQVU&feature=related - Part 2

Thank you all, and love you all: Follow me on Twitter: http://twitter.com/mspakistanworld

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World

www.misspakistanworld.com

www.mrspakistan.com

Pakistan and its troubles but still positive - Sonia Ahmed

2011-01-20T18:36:00.001-08:00

It's the beginning of the first year and we as Pakistanis have already had an assassination, some bomb attacks and just a hopeless beginning to a new year for Pakistan. But on a collective basis, I have seen the various channels promote the good cause of togetherness. I have seen our TV Stars, our singers, all come together and talk positive. The good thing is that we need that positive talk, which boosts the morales of the people of Pakistan. But at the same time, talking is not everything, we need to act on a lot of things. We need to promote Pakistan in a positive way. We need to show the world out of Pakistan that we are not all like that. We need to partake in politics, in entertainment, in academics, in sports and represent ourselves globally. Even if we voice our opinions, we need to also continue doing the positive as Canadian Pakistani, American Pakistanis, British Pakistanis, or just Pakistanis.

This month, I saw some Afghani people who were very liberal and proactive. It was a pleasure seeing the other side of the Afghani community. They dressed so well, and they all belonged to the middle class, and looked no different that Europeans. But it was a breather to see them, take a step in the liberal direction rather than the all so conservative clan they belong to. They danced like the traditional Afghanis from Afghanistan, and they spoke Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi and Farsi. It was an amazing evening and my perception of Afghanis in general has changed. That's why I want all of us Pakistanis to show the world that we are not what people and media perceive us to be.

I am glad Veena Malik is back in Pakistan and busy with so many talk shows and interviews. She has done so well. She has changed the image of Pakistan in India. We needed that as Pakistanis, and India needed to see the other side

of Pakistan. Both Begum Nawazish and Veena Malik did an amazing job.

I got to see my handsome Prime Minister of Canada, Stephen Harper this month and met some of my MP friends at the Economic Action Plan Summit. Also had a chance to find out that Boman Irani - one of my favorite actors, will be hosting the IIFA Awards in Toronto, Canada.

On the Miss Pakistan World front, things are looking great, really great and on the Mrs. Pakistan World side, things are looking great as well!!! Stay tuned, as more news will follow soon.

Luv & Regards,

Sonia Ahmed

New Year's wishes - Sonia Ahmed

2011-01-02T14:12:00.000-08:00

Top Ten New Year's wishes:

Have the best Miss Pakistan World event since 2003
Travel more than any year
Remove all negativity
Keep all positivity
No not get married yet, not this year, still have to find Mr. Right!
Have an overall surplus year
Keep fit and take it seriously
Read a lot, which I missed quite a bit in 2010
Start on some smaller projects
Eat, Pray and Love

The year 2010 - Sonia Ahmed, President of Miss/Mrs. Pakistan World

2010-12-28T02:16:00.001-08:00

I always pray for a great year, and when 2010 struck, I was in high spirits and expected the best.

From January to March 2010, I remember meeting Atif Aslam in Washington DC, USA, and hearing him talk about how I should continue with the pageant and how he supports Miss Pakistan World. It was amazing and very touching to hear him full of support! He remembered me from 2006, when I first met him in Manhattan, New York, USA and that was before he became a big star. It felt like home and a good feeling of comfort came over while discussing with him what we face being Pakistanis. I saw his passion for Pakistan and his religion as well. And there I thought, if only all Pakistanis could be so balance.

I also drove on an American highway for the first time, which I never expected to and which I did out of the blues. I went without sleep for one whole day, and remember doing multiple media appearances in New York City, USA. All my friends from New York City welcomed me back again and helped me spread the word of Miss Pakistan World.

From April to June 2010, I spent most of my time in China, for almost a month. I got back a title for Miss Pakistan World as Beauty of Asia 2010. My hard work paid off and Pakistan earned a title. These titles don't really do much for my company, but the PR and media generated for Pakistan is always good. I consider this a charity to make my country's name come out in a positive way around the world. I made good friends, and met nice people from around the world. I had my friend Seva as my shopping partner from Beijing to Quindao. What an amazing experience I had! I saw the world's top natural heritage site in China- the beautiful mountains of Zhangjiajie. The Movie Avatar displayed these beautiful mountains in the form of the hanging mountains. I remember the Mayor of Zhangjiajie, took a toast with me in the name of Musharraf, as he related to him as an army man.

I walked in Beijing as a normal Beijing-er in the night, all by myself. I moved around the city in a taxi, I took by myself. It was my second time, I was in China and Beijing was a city I loved since 2006. I experienced The Great Wall of China, even though I was not feeling well. I walked on it once again for the second time. How lucky was I to see this beautiful structure once again! The lovely markets of Qindao, Beijing, and the spas of Limo City in China, were all fun! I used to sit in a pool of fishes were they feasted on dead skin... which was an experience!

From July to September 2010, besides meeting quite a lot of Bollywood stars, I found myself in a huge controversy with of course the Miss Pakistan World 2010 pageant. Wow, what a time that was, and now looking back, I really laugh at that particular time and situation. But I made it through. I had more media, in Canada, non stop interviews of so many journalis

ts asking me why I was holding the pageant in the wake of a massive flood that hit Pakistan. And why in the month of Ramada! Well, the pageant was held and they all got their answers. Media media media...... !!! I was fed up with it but then missed it in September again!! I thank the conservative writers and I hope they keep up their work, as it works well for me.

From October to December 2010, my life took yet another turn, I got busy as a socialite and a political conservative. Never did I think that I would be attending 20-25 events a month. As overwhelming as it was, I was non stop, invited to almost every event political & non-political event and had a great time with so many amazing people. This year itself, I met known faces like Atif Aslam, Shreya Gosal, Amanat Ali, Jawad Ahmad, Raj Babbar, Arvinder Singh, Tiger Jeet Singh, Sanjeev Kapoor, Bobby Deol, Akshay Kumar, Irfan Khan, Sunil Shetty twice, and my favorite one of all - Boman Irani.

In November 2010, I found myself in Jamaica, for the Mrs. United Nations 2010 pageant, having Mrs. Pakistan World 2010 represent Pakistan. And after seven day, on the 13th of November 2010, Pakistan won its first ever international title - Mrs. United Nations 2010. My hard work for 8 years for Pakistan's pageant industry paid off, and in 2010, I got Beauty of Asia 2010 as well as Mrs. United Nations 2010 titles. Pakistan was once again in the news and this time for a strong victory not a controversy. From Jet skiing to para sailing and walking on the beautiful beaches of Negril, Jamaica, I had a fabulous time.

December 2010 was a bit mild and I felt myself more rested and still active for the festive season. When I look back, I can say that I had a fabulous year and I enjoyed this wonderful ride. And I met fabulous people this year, people who truly support the idea of making a better image for Pakistan. I enjoyed each and every moment of my life and learnt a lot from people as well as the experiences that I had.

2011 will mark my 9th year, and the 9th Miss Pakistan World will be crowned. 9 years ....wow...!! I have survived for 8 years and I have a feeling that next year will be the year, maybe just because its the 9th year. A change will come, a good change. As I anxiously wait for my time to strike number 9 - for the Miss Pakistan World pageant, I wish all my supporters and friends good luck and a very Happy New Year!

Sonia Ahmed meets Sanjeev Kapoor- Celebrity Chef

2010-12-19T00:49:00.001-08:00

Rendezvous with the Mayor of Brampton - Susan Fennell

2010-12-13T06:36:00.000-08:00

Rendezvous with the Mayor of Brampton - Susan Fennell

Here is a picture with the Mayor of Brampton, at her inaugural - oath ceremony!

Love always,

Sonia Ahmed

Midweek South Asian Awards - Sonia Ahmed

2010-12-13T01:05:00.000-08:00

It was a fun night at the Midweek South Asian Awards night, and even though there was freezing rain, and a storm, the show was filled with most known members of the communities. Here are some of my pictures with friends.

Member of Parliament - Lois Brown Christmas get-together

2010-12-11T17:35:00.001-08:00

Member of Parliament - Lois Brown Christmas get-together

I had a great time meeting the Chief Guest of Honor of Miss Pakistan World 2010, this year once again. Mrs. Pakistan World 2010/ Mrs. United Nations 2010, Tahmena Bokhari was present too, to greet the former Guest of Honor. Here are some pictures for everyone.

Thank you

Sonia Ahmed

Oath Taking ceremony of the Mayor of Brampton - Susan Fennell

2010-12-08T00:18:00.000-08:00

Oath Taking ceremony of the Mayor of Brampton - Susan Fennell

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World

Oath Ceremony of the Mayor of Mississauga - Hazel McCallion

2010-12-02T01:33:00.000-08:00

I just witnessed the historical Oath Ceremony of the Mayor of Mississauga - Hazel McCallion, and it was wonderful to see this woman who is almost 90 years old take office again. One of the longest Mayor in the world, McCallion, is a strong woman who built a city from scratch - Mississauga, Ontario - Canada! Here are my historical pictures with her again. Other strong women were Councillor Eve Adams and Councillor Sue McFaden.

A sonnet written by a friend, a fan and a supporter - Sonia Ahmed

2010-11-28T15:06:00.000-08:00

A Sonnet on Sonia Ahmed:

What is Sonias' voice,a volatile void,a gift,a beauty

Mellow at times,yet intoxicating if feminine sweety

Voice is revelation,a spiritual flight of fancy

From limbo,Nature and God,as pensy

Hitler waged war through the venom of voice

It can make or mar friends or foes,its fierce

Bitterness causes divorce,its magnetism unites lovers

Sonias' soft voice brings solace like Mother Teresas' cover

Its ebb and flow is an inkling of your personality

Voice educated teeming millions,yet discovering diamond' moveabilit

Inner voice brings miracles,and spiritual trumpet

Bringing together God and the pious perfect

In the cosmos,made Moses and the Merciful talk on Toor

Voices' absence is dumbness,its existence is lifes' moor

Meeting Tim Hudak & Mayor of Mississauga

2010-11-27T15:54:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity to meet the dashing and handsome Tim Hudak, and listen to his 3 points for making Ontario a better place. As I sat there I saw the opposition party sit there as well, but unlike our Pakistani people they had respect as well as asked their questions and most importantly, gave respect.

President Musharraf came to Toronto, Canada a week ago, and the people who are handling his party, acted as viceroys or kings, and treated a lot of his die hard fans with pure disrespect. I meet so many dignitaries and politicians and have never seen people of such low caliber of APML - Canada! It's sad that even though Mush is a nice man, with good intentions, these lower administrative people spoil it for him.

Mushy is a cool man, but once again his people that are chosen by his friend Naseem Ashraf are not fine. Anyways, here you will see me with Tim Hudak and the Mayor of Mississauga - Hazel McCallion.

Sonia Ahmed - President of Miss Pakistan World and Mrs. Pakistan World

Pakistan has got one title to its name, now getting ready for more

2010-11-17T18:12:00.000-08:00

It is still unbelievable and even though just two days have been passed since I have come back from Jamaica, it feels as though my mind is still there. The fact that Pakistan has won a title for an international pageant, feels so surreal.

Well, just getting busy in media and promotions and hope to take this name further. I feel so happy and I feel that now the time starts for more titles and more recognition for Pakistan.

Aaahhhh!! Mrs. United Nations 2010! Pakistan has a title to its name!

Love always,

Sonia Ahmed

President

Miss Pakistan World

Mrs. Pakistan World

Jamaica got a taste of Pakistan - Mrs. Pakistan wins Mrs. United Nations 2010

2010-11-16T16:29:00.000-08:00

For eight days in Jamaica, things have been different for my current Mrs. Pakistan World 2010 titleholder and myself. From visiting schools and putting a smile on each child's to the best performance on stage by Mrs. Pakistan World 2010, that landed us the title of Mrs. United Nations 2010. I am so pleased with all this.

Tahmena Bokhari, Mrs. Pakistan World 2010 won the first existing title for Pakistan - Mrs. United Nations 2010 and will jump into her position in a week's time, very soon.

As Tahmena Bokhari won the title for Pakistan, just imagine what I went through??? I was controlling my self and my emotions and all this time I thought that oh my God, we are actually winning! I remember when one other beauty queen won a continental title, I totally cried like a baby, when the judge sitting next to me was consoling me, and this time I saw the sash, the crown and the glory of Pakistan winning the title of Mrs. United Nations. In my wildest dreams I could not have imagined a "Mrs. Pakistan," winning. As I would always imagine, a "Miss Pakistan." But this title shows and proves that if a married woman can do it then so can the girls who complete for the Miss title.

A little bit about Tahmena: This girl first took part in Miss Pakistan 2009 and did not win any title. She had not given up and so when forward for Mrs. Pakistan 2010, and even then did not expect much to happen as it was a married woman's pageant. Finally when she was told to participate in the pageant for Mrs. United Nations 2010 she agreed and just got busy preparing for the pageant, without any expectations. The time when we all flew down to Jamaica, I did remember her being very professional, and when she had performed on stage doing her talent we all had tears in our eyes. She did well for Pakistan and today she is the first actual title holder for Pakistan.

This is a great victory for Pakistan and we are thankful that Pakistan has got a title.

Thank you to my fans who love me and keep on encouraging me in this field. I would be nowhere without you guys. I have been truly blessed, and because of your love, I have come out victorious.

Love you all always,

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World & Mrs. Pakistan World

United Nations Pageant - Jamaica and Pakistan

2010-11-11T16:52:00.000-08:00

I am sitting in Jamaica, and looking around this beautiful beach and the friendly people of Jamaica and thinking that I really can't believe that I brought Pakistan's representation even to this Island of Jamaica!

As soon I as came here, I had Mrs. Colombia's husband who cannot speak a word of English try to speak with me about Pakistan. He said "Pakistan," then he took his hand and made a gun and then he made the noise of a machine gun from his mouth. I looked at him and thought to myself, wow..... he is from Colombia and there too they think about us this way. I smiled and said its changing, and told him to just look at Mrs. Pakistan World - Tahmena Bokhari, who is married and still being a part of this pageant. He then nodded and agreed.

So yes Mrs. Pakistan World - Tahmena Bokhari is part of Mrs. United Nations that is taking place in Negril, Jamaica. I don't know what can come out of it yet, but all I know that Jamaica now understands Pakistan and knows at least something about us.

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World and Mrs. Pakistan World

PTC Punjab - Promo Video - Interview with Sonia Ahmed

2010-11-06T11:10:00.000-07:00

Sonia Ahmed in Tirchhi Nazar - http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=1371419580346

Discovering Canada - A day in the natural parks

2010-11-02T21:48:00.000-07:00

I usually don't put very personal pictures... but I had a wonderful time today looking at the scenic beauty of Canadian parks near the Greater Toronto Area. Both the Jack Darling Park as well as the Erin Mills Parks were full of a bit of wildlife and just natural beauty all around. I saw a fox for the very first time so up close! :P

Here are some pics!

Sonia Ahmed

President of Miss Pakistan World

Sonia Ahmed - President of Miss Pakistan World with Amanat Ali and Jawad Ahmed

2010-11-01T00:28:00.000-07:00

Had a wonderful time meeting Amanat Ali and Jawad Ahmad on the 30th of October 2010. This was the second time I was meeting Amanat Ali and it was great chatting with him backstage. Also had the pleasure of hearing him again, and overall it was a fun experience. Jawad Ahmad who spoke in his proper English as well as Urdu, was a pleasure to meet.

Attached are some photographs:

Raj Babbar- Actor and other stars

2010-10-26T17:12:00.001-07:00

Sonia Ahmed With Arvinder Singh - Ghazal Singer

2010-10-25T10:36:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of meeting Arvinder Singh once more in my life. An amazing singer and besides that a man of such an incredible attitude in life.

Minister of Immigration Honourable Jason Kenney

2010-10-23T12:09:00.000-07:00

Met Sunidhi Chauhan - Some pics

2010-10-23T12:06:00.001-07:00

Hearts for Pakistan - Fundraiser for Pakistan Floods

2010-10-19T09:10:00.000-07:00

Hearts for Pakistan was an amazing fundraiser organized by Saman Rehmani which had wonderful guests - Tahmena Bokhari, Mrs. Pakistan World 2010, Ex Ambassador of Pakistan - Karamatullah K. Ghori, Member of Parliament Liberal MP for the Ontario riding of Scarborough- - Jim Karygiannis & Joe Pantalone - Toronto's Deputy Mayor.

Joe Pantalone was my favorite part as he was full of energy and fingers crossed he become Mayor of Toronto from Deputy Mayor.

Mrs. Pakistan World 2010 Tahmena Bokhari, helped out in the fundraising, as what all Mrs. and Miss Pakistan's do during their reign. So I was very proud that we have contributed to the Floods in Pakistan and helped out as much as possible.

Here are some pictures. Hope you all like them!

Love,

Sonia Ahmed

President - Miss Pakistan World

Mrs. Pakistan World

Julian Fantino Conservative Party

2010-10-19T04:33:00.000-07:00

It was a pleasure meeting with the Minister of Finance- The Honorable James M. Flaherty, as well as Julian Fantino who is running for the MP position in Vaughan for the first time and endorsed by the Prime Minister of Canada. Lois Brown the MP of Newmarket/Aurora was present as well and it was a pleasure seeing her once again as she was the Cheif Guest of Honor at the 8th Annual Miss Pakistan World 2010 pageant.

Here in the pictures seen is Mrs. Pakistan World 2010 Tahmena Bokhari, myself Sonia Ahmed- President of Miss/Mrs. Pakistan World with the Minister of Finance as well as Julian Fantino.

Picture of Importance - Sonia Ahmed with the Mayor of Brampton Susan Fennell

2010-10-12T06:20:00.000-07:00

I have a lot of favorite pictures, and for this year, there was one with Boman Irani, which I really really will treasure and this is another great picture of the year 2010. This picture is of the Mayor of Brampton - Susan Fennell (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_Fennell) and here I am showing her my annual magazine. Last year (2009), the picture of the year was President Musharraf and myself..! :)

Lal Masjid - How dare they?

2010-10-12T02:55:00.000-07:00

Here is a reminder of what Lal Masjid did to Pakistan. How dare does anyone take the law into their hands? I have seen the debates by some people about this, and I would say lets just refresh our memories. Mullahs and Mullaism cannot take place in Pakistan. Anything to do with Mullahs as leaders have to be severely punished.

In aid of flood victims of Pakistan by Starbuzz Newspaper

2010-10-11T23:27:00.000-07:00

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2010

In aid of flood victims of Pakistan

Sahebzada A. Khan Consul General of Pakistan, Mrs Pakistan World
Susan Fennel Mayor of Brampton, Sen. Salma Attaullahjan

The Radisson Plaza Hotel in association with the Consulate General of Pakistan held a fund raising Gala Dinner to help the Flood Victims of Pakistan, in Mississauga at the Grand Victorian Convention Centre on 7th of October,2010.

Harpreet Sethi, Mrs. Pakistan World

Nick Kochhar

Surabhi Guleria, Kundan Joshi, Sunny Trehan

-StarBuzz weekly, Toronto

Pics by Irfan Ali

Fundraising for the Pakistan Floods - Sonia Ahmed

2010-10-09T11:50:00.001-07:00

With the Consular General of Pakistan - Pakistan Fund Raiser - Raddison Mississauga --Photos by Mohammad Moinuddin SNAPS INDIA

Pakistan has cool things happening: Sonia Ahmed

2010-10-07T06:03:00.000-07:00

I am so excited for watching Veena Malik and Begum Nawazish on Colours TV - Big Boss. I am so happy things are being represented so well. The fact that Veena Malik danced on a Marathi Song, made me even more proud. Here is the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gRFSZk14cWw and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyTbAdTGmDU

Begum Nawazish is as usual very charming and cute. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deIa5EfxLQ4&feature=related

SO much fun to watch them and really these two people are the right ones to represent Pakistan as they are full of talent. Begum known for her talk show and Veena known for her impersonations.

Thank you India, for showing a good representation of Pakistan! Good choices!

And of course, lets not forget Musharraf, APML - the launch and the support. 300, 000 plus on Facebook following Mushy.

On the pageant front, both myself and Mrs. Pakistan are going to an international pageant next month, so very excited about it.

Thank you all for your support!!!!

Musharraf back in action - Sonia Ahmed

2010-10-03T22:33:00.001-07:00

I am glad that Mushy is back in action. I was very happy on how he spoke about Nawaz Sharif and that just tallied all that Nawaz has done. Mushy spoke well and he spoke in the language Nawaz would understand. A mix of comedy and other interesting parts of his speech, Mushy did well. Pakistan has been in the ruins and now hopefully, there is hope. Lets just hope that things change.

50 Reasons why we need Musharraf - http://blogs.tribune.com.pk/story/2092/50-reasons-pakistan-needs-musharraf/

So people of Pakistan and of Pakistani decent, lets focus on cleaning Pakistan, and bringing back someone we lost.

It's time to move ahead for a brighter future for Pakistan.

As the news states "Pakistan get ready as the General is coming back!"

Had a blast at the AR Rahman Show- Sonia Ahmed

2010-09-27T20:11:00.001-07:00

In StarBuzz Magazine - Toronto

2010-09-24T01:22:00.000-07:00

Here you can catch the actual newspaper Starbuzz, with Sonia Ahmed's interview - Exclusive to Starbuzz

StarBuzz Interview with Sonia Ahmed by Tia Virdi

2010-09-20T04:21:00.000-07:00

http://starbuzz-starbuzz.blogspot.com/2010/09/tias-talk-with-sonia-ahmed-bold.html

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2010

Tia's Talk with Sonia Ahmed, the "Bold & Beautiful" force behind Pakistani Beauty Pageant.

How did the 8th Miss Pakistan World pageant fair this year?
The controversy was a surprise for me as I really was caught in the middle of the floods disaster in Pakistan. Not only that, the fundamentalists were moaning about the fact that it was held in the month of Ramadan, even though we held it after Iftar (breaking of fast). I guess the ideals of religion is very different amongst some Pakistanis as compared to the Middle Easterners, where its considered, “Happy Ramadan,” instead of what some Pakistanis claims it to be, “Holy Ramadan.” The overall pageant was well received in regards to the media, guests and show’s content. I would say it was good!

Is it a business or a mission for you? (why)
Miss Pakistan World is not just an event; it is the birth of an industry for Pakistan. This started off as a mission, where I had to make sure that Pakistan’s pageant industry was created and that it kept continuing. But at this very moment it is also a business, as bills have to be paid and the event has expenses. The mission will always remain and that is to show the world that Pakistani women are the most beautiful women in the world as well as role models. The mission for Pakistan will also remain and that is that Pakistani women can do anything she wants to do without being subject to any sort of discrimination, intolerance and hate. The mission for myself will remain too and that is to keep Pakistan’s pageant industry breathing.

What are the challenges that come with leading such an event in a conservative community like Pakistan?
Well the majority of the community is made up of pseudo intellectual leaders. These people are very harmful for our well being. These very people have also used the Miss Pakistan World pageant to get some media hype for themselves. These people include Pakistani-Canadian individuals from the politics, media, and just self appointed heads. They don’t want young individuals to come in and take their limelight away, and so just try to target whatever they can to show that they are still leaders. The Miss Pakistan World pageant spoils it for them, as we still do not die off, which they want.

Do you think the Pakistani community will open up to such events in the future?
They have no choice but to open up. In fact I know that they have opened up, as they want to attend the pageant, they talk about the pageant, and they acknowledge the pageant. It’s been 8 years and hence there is no choice left to them. This is a democracy, and they have to tolerate and know that whether they like it or not, the Miss Pakistan World pageant exists and will be there forever. If they want democracy in Pakistan for which a lot of people grouped together against President Musharraf, then tolerance is democracy. They have to learn to tolerate, respect, acknowledge and be aware and that is what democracy is. Adding to that, besides the Miss Pakistan World pageant there is a Mrs. Pakistan World pageant for married women of Pakistani decent.

Do you personally believe that such a pageant is important for the upliftment of women? If yes then how so?
This is very important for Pakistan and other similar nations where the idea of a woman representing almost anything is intolerable. A beauty pageant may not be very important to a nation like USA, UK, Canada, as women are tolerated in all aspects of society.

Miss Pakistan is a hope of an idea that women can be role models and can represent the community with the balance of both brains and their looks. It uplifts women in general especially those women who have lost hope to ever do something in order to stand on their own feet. The idea of Miss Pakistan World gives them that hope. If one looks at just the small picture and that is a “pageant,” then all they can see is just a pageant. But if one looks at the broader picture and that is representation around the world in terms of a woman then it becomes more meaningful. The pageant industry is designed in such a way that coincides with charity work, helping raise funds, visiting orphanages etc. When those children or elderly see a beauty queen they light up, as compared to seeing a strong headed lawyer.
Just last year about $10,000 dollars were raised for 2 separate charities, one including the Cancer Society of Canada. This year is the beginning and we raised well over 5000 dollars for a School Net Guyana project for schools in Guyana. We do our charity work around the world and whenever we get an opportunity. A female lawyer, doctor, teacher, principal won’t do such things, as they work for a living and they get paid to be doctors and lawyers. On the other hand we are doing it for no cost at all plus this is not our profession. The girl who is Miss Pakistan World is a student, or is working and yet she would take time out to go for events like these, where she is not only represent Pakistan but also help the cause.

How different was the response to your event this year in the wake of the floods?
The response was of sympathy towards the pageant, as level headed people understood that the floods took place three weeks prior to the pageant. There was nothing that we could do to postpone the event, as a lot of people’s paychecks depended on this event. The floods took place in Pakistan and as show organizers and artists we made sure that we had some charity aspect associated with the show.
Then the empty vessels of the community are another side to our community where with their high levels of intelligence basically said to postpone the event, without realizing that this could have resulted in a loss for the many people associated with the pageant. It is these people who want to see more loss happen including the loss of the floods.

Red Cross was invited to the 8th Miss Pakistan World pageant this year, to raise funds and awareness about the floods in Pakistan. How successful was the fundraising aspect of the pageant?
Red Cross did a good job, and the fundraising was successful. If we had more time and support we could have done a better job. But there was a lot of negativity that we had to combat in order to even have Red Cross come at our event.

What kind of headway have you made with this event after 8 years, and where do you see it going?
I am successful now, and more so invincible. If an event like Miss Pakistan World could go off in a time like this, then this show will be the best in the world one day. Sky is the limits! I am determined and there is no one who can influence me or deter my intentions.
I also want to thank the sponsors who were mainly Pakistanis as well. Without their support this event would not have happened. The show must and will go on! We will be going to India, Turkey, China, Malaysia, Dubai and maybe Guyana to spread the word of who we are and how Pakistanis really are.

-Tia Virdi for StarBuzz weekly, Toronto

This is my Pakistan - Tribute to Reshma

2010-09-13T04:00:00.000-07:00

Hum TV did justice to Reshma, and they put together a tribute in her name. I am very proud of them for doing such great honor to a star that had to be almost worshipped for her contribution to rustic cultural singing. The tribute took place in Karachi, Pakistan at Seth Ram Gopal Goverdhanda's Mohatta Hindu Gym Khana. Reshma a Hindu from Pakistan, who chose to live in Pakistan and had her children there, as well as contributed her life to singing for bringing name to Pakistan's music industry, long before even Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

Jabir Abbas's voice was amazing, who gave her a tribute. I was teary eyed watching the show. I saw my Pakistani stars one by one pay tribute. Ali Abbas who got his fame in India in Sa re ga ma did the same along with Humaira Channa another singer.

Even though Reshma's voice was cracked due to cancer she sang as much as she could, and the Master of Ceremony of the show - Imran Abbas, assured her that nothing has changed. With her face glowing as well as make up, that brought her eyes out, Reshma only showed joy and appreciation to the crowd.

This is my Pakistan, a Pakistan Jinnah dreamed off. A Pakistan, where events like, "Tribute to Reshma," can take place in, "Seth Ram Gopal Goverdhanda's Mohatta Hindu Gym Khana," a Pakistan where a minority like Reshma is respected and honored for her contribution to Pakistan. I want to thank my forever President Musharraf to start her on a pension as well as recognize her aceivements when he was in power, which all got stopped by the present government and may have been put to a halt even with Mian Nawaz Sharif (if in power), as he would never promote a minority.

I don't know when the country got taken over by pessimists and nay sayers as well as hypocrites. I don't know when my Pakistan got taken over by fakes! And i don't know when my country Pakistan was taken over by religion. Pakistan was always supposed to be secular with a Muslim majority where Muslims could enjoy their rights freely.

For the past three days, I have seen different kinds of celebrations on most Pakistani channels and it is amazing to see channels like Hum TV, TV One as well as Indus TV do some justice to Eid. But when I tuned into GEO TV, they had the same going on, showing the cartoons of the politicians or making fun of everything they can find. For once could they stop the leg pulling and get serious as there is so much to do for Pakistan besides making fun.

The beautiful stage was adored with a Pak-Rajasthani background. Rajasthani culture is still a part of Pakistan's culture - believe it or not? It exists! Most of Sindh is Rajasthani and some have integrated to Punjab. Naseebo Lal is also Pak- Rajathani. So it was really fulfilling to see so much talent and especially, respect for talent. Thank you Hum TV for being the bigger person and showing great entertainment unlike who are busy with leg pulling.

Happy Eid but don't be ignorant - Sonia Ahmed

2010-09-10T22:09:00.000-07:00

I had a blessed Ramadan as the 8Th annual Miss Pakistan World went a success, and I still made headlines and the show was blessed as it went on even though there were some elements that surprised me.

So I am enjoying this Eid, as a gift from Allah, as well as enjoying the Sheer Khorma, Biryani, Zarda and some more of my favorite yummy meals that mom has made. In fact, I took part in making Sheer Khorma, as much as it was a pain! So yes, Eid is great! And plus so many people have sent invitations and so much love! I am so amazed to see that. It always feels great!

I am planning to jump back into work, as the next event is already being visualized in my head. Every year is a learning experience. I just spoke to a friend, Nyla Hasan, and she advised that instead of saying, "Why me?" I have to tackle every situation with, "How can I find a solution to this?" which is what I am going to do exactly.

The floods in Pakistan are a sad situation, and the best we all can do is pray and find a suitable and reliable charity to donate. Finding the right charity is very important. I don't believe in a charity just because its Islamic or Pakistani. I believe in a charity that is there and will do its work there. There are a handful of those even in Canada and the USA. So the best way is to research before you give your money. There are so many Flood Disaster events and I'm hearing so much, but my advise would be to be careful and do your research. Don't just give blindly for the sake of Pakistan as Pakistan will not benefit. The funds will go to the those greedy people, and you really don't want to be a part of it.

When you donate you have the right to ask where exactly your money will go, and you can get the proof from them. If they refuse to give then understand that there is a problem. Also when you donate you will get a tax receipt and that you can use for your own taxes and prove to the government that you have donated.

All these people who say they will sing or release a song, or even the ones who are aspiring politicians and are going door to door to show how much they support, are all in it for themselves, as they want to get known. But even then, see what they have to offer and see what they are giving you in return, in regards to tax receipts and proof. Proof is very important! People are saying a lot of things these days, but don't be ignorant!

People's Republic of Pakistan - Can We? by Sonia Ahmed

2010-09-01T15:15:00.000-07:00

Can I dare say The People's Republic of Pakistan? Can it ever be possible? Mohammad Ali Jinnah created just Pakistan, but then the later voting seeking politicians changed it to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. Today this very Islamic Republic of Pakistan, is a great example of the Sunni-Shia wars, the Mohajir- Punjab War, India-Pakistan War, Minority Killing Wars, Media wars, self appointed Pseudo-Intellectual leader wars!

Why did we not keep Jinnah's name - "Pakistan?" Why did we have to make a nation Islamic. Jinnah never said that the minorities will be not be given importance, in fact the flag has a white color representing the minorities, then making the whole of Pakistan Islamic is already discriminating the minorities.

Well people, welcome to my Pakistan and my Pakistan has the teachings of Jinnah and the other person included is President Musharraf minus all his advisors. He just needs to be told that he can do without his advisors.

Rest then an appeal to the people of Pakistan, to the youth of Pakistan, and that is to keep Jinnah alive to bring back the Pakistan for the people of Pakistan. Pakistan is not Islam, people are not Islam, we are all humans first and Islam is a great religion and it is a part of us. But we are Pakistanis and humans first. Keeping aside the cast, creed, color and religions, WE ARE PAKISTANIS FIRST! PEHLE PAKISTAN! PAKISTAN ZINDABAD!