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Shaadi Season Survival Guide: How to Have Fun Without Breaking the Bank
Lifestyle

Shaadi Season Survival Guide: How to Have Fun Without Breaking the Bank

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A

Shaadi ka ghar = ‘beta chairs le aao’, ‘meri slipper kahan gayi’, all the cousins in one room vibing to ‘purane zamane ke ganay’, ruthi phuppo ko manana, stress, drama, chaos… aur sab kuch double, specially kharcha! If you’ve ever been in a house where a wedding is happening, you already know, it’s not one event, it’s a full-on season. Every day there’s a new function to prepare for, last-minute outfit issues, guests arriving from all corners, and on top of it all the pressure of staying within budget. Between the excitement and endless taayariyan, it’s very easy to lose track of spending.

But the good news is you can enjoy the celebrations, host a beautiful wedding, and still stay within budget. Yes, it’s possible! Here’s a simple shaadi season survival guide to help you manage shaadi season like a pro without breaking the bank.

Make a Budget First

Sit down with your family and decide how much you can actually spend. Break it down by categories: venue, clothes, catering, decor, giveaways, and other details. Then stick to it. Create a shaadi account or cash envelope system. Putting money aside for each part keeps you from overspending. Remember, budgeting is not about being cheap it’s about being smart. Also, be ready for last-minute costs. Keep a small emergency fund to handle surprise mehmaan, backup generator fuel, or extra tent rentals.

Don’t Stress About Expensive Gifts

If you’re giving gifts from the host side, set a gift budget early. For guests attending from out of town, instead of expensive giveaways, consider simple but meaningful items like snacks for the road, or local sweets. If you’re gifting as a guest, you don’t need to go overboard. Group gifting works well, and personalized or DIY gifts are always appreciated. And if you’re not attending every event, it’s okay to skip the gift too. Not everything needs to be tied to a price tag.shaadi season

Travel Smart

Hosting a wedding means arranging travel for relatives, guests, and sometimes the bride or groom. Book early and ask hotels for group rates. If you’re arranging transport, try van or bus rentals that can accommodate groups together. Avoid last-minute bookings those can get expensive. Also, keep in touch with guests so you can coordinate their arrivals to avoid repeated airport pickups or station runs.

Reuse and Repurpose Outfits

It’s tempting to get a new outfit for each function, but it’s not necessary. Plan your looks in advance. Pair old clothes with new jewelry or get a dupatta stitched to match something existing. You can also get family outfits designed in bulk. Tailors often give discounts for large orders. For kids, reuse clothes from other weddings no one notices and they outgrow them fast anyway. Borrow from friends or rent a few statement pieces. You’ll save a lot and still look great.

Cut Costs on Salon and Styling

Salon bills can quietly eat up your shaadi budget. Skip full salon packages unless absolutely necessary. For mehndi nights or smaller functions, do your own makeup. Watch tutorials on YouTube and practice ahead. For big events, book freelancers instead of expensive parlours many do amazing work at lower rates. Also, avoid paying for guests’ makeup unless pre-decided. Focus on the bride, groom, and close family only.

Manage the Guest List Wisely

It’s tough in our culture, but modifying the guest list helps a lot. Invite only those who truly matter. Feeding 500 people versus 300 can change your entire catering budget. Focus on quality, not quantity. Also, consider merging functions. A combined mehndi and sangeet saves you a venue, a menu, and a lot of stress.

decor

Decor Without Overspending

You don’t need imported flowers and chandeliers to make your event look beautiful. Use marigolds, fairy lights, paper decor, or reuse event items from earlier functions. Work with decorators who understand your budget and get creative. Pinterest ideas, local vendors, and DIY touches can make your events look elegant without extra cost.

Planning Your Own Wedding on a Budget?

If you or someone in your home is getting married, keep it simple and meaningful:

  • Choose an off-season date to save on venues and vendors
  • Go for daytime events to cut down lighting and food costs
  • Skip the buffet and offer plated meals or limited menus
  • Rent bridal wear or buy from clearance sales
  • Avoid live bands and stick to a good playlist with a speaker

If I were the Budget Savvy Bride, I’d say this: spend on what truly feels worth it, not on what looks good on Instagram. Your shaadi should represent you and your values, not other people’s expectations.

Final Thoughts

Hosting a shaadi doesn’t have to mean draining your bank account or losing sleep. Focus on the joy, not the show. Plan wisely, make a shaadi season survival guide, stay calm, and remember: the real beauty of a shaadi is in the love and laughter not the bill.

 

 

 

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UK-Citizenship-Changes
News

7 Crucial UK Citizenship Changes in 2025 and What They Mean for Your Application

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A

The UK government has introduced major reforms to its immigration policies in 2025, making it harder for many foreigners, including Pakistanis, to qualify for UK citizenship. These reforms aim to prioritise high skilled workers, reduce net migration, and promote local talent, signaling the end of what the government has called the “open borders experiment.” 

Here’s a brief summary of the key updates: 

  1. End of the Open Borders Approach: The UK is shifting away from relying on low-paid foreign workers and focusing on skilled migration.
  2. Raising the Skills Threshold: Workers must now have degree level qualifications to be eligible for immigration, filtering out low-skilled applicants.
  3. Increased Immigration Skills Charge: Employers will now pay a higher charge when hiring foreign workers, incentivising them to hire local talent.
  4. Stricter English Language Requirements: Applicants and their adult dependents must meet higher English proficiency standards.
  5. Changes to Settlement and Citizenship Rules: The residency period required for citizenship has been extended to 10 years.
  6. Closure of the Care Worker Visa Route: The UK has permanently closed the visa route for overseas care workers.
  7. Digital IDs and eVisas for Foreign Nationals: All foreign nationals will be issued digital IDs and eVisas to improve immigration enforcement.

1. The End of the Open Borders Approach

The UK government has recognized that businesses have been relying on low paid foreign workers instead of investing in British talent. To address this, the new immigration system focuses on skilled migration and workforce development in the UK. This means there will be fewer opportunities for low skilled labor, and applicants will need to meet higher qualifications and demonstrate that they can contribute meaningfully to the UK economy.

2. Raising the Skills Threshold

One of the biggest changes in this new policy is the higher skills requirement for foreign workers. The UK now expects foreign workers to have at least a degree level qualification to be eligible for immigration. This change is meant to make sure that the UK attracts individuals who can contribute to the country’s growth and development.

3. Increased Immigration Skills Charge

The Immigration Skills Charge is a fee that employers must pay when hiring foreign workers. This charge has been increased for the first time since 2017. The government hopes this will push businesses to hire and upskill local employees instead of relying on foreign labor.

4. Stricter English Language Requirements

The UK government is also introducing stricter English language requirements across all immigration routes. For the first time, adult dependents of visa holders will also need to prove basic English proficiency. This will help migrants integrate better and participate more fully in British society.

5. Changes to Settlement and Citizenship Rules

The rules for settling in the UK and applying for citizenship have also been updated. The residency period required for citizenship has been extended from five to ten years. However, people who make significant contributions to the UK economy may still be able to apply for citizenship earlier.

6. Closure of the Care Worker Visa Route

Another major change is the permanent closure of the visa route for overseas care workers. This decision comes after concerns about the exploitation of foreign workers in the care sector and the need to reduce reliance on foreign labor.

7. Introduction of Digital IDs and eVisas for Foreign Nationals

To strengthen immigration enforcement, the UK government is introducing Digital IDs and eVisas for all foreign nationals. This will help Immigration Enforcement Officers track visa holders more efficiently and act against those who overstay or remain in the UK unlawfully.

What Does This Mean for You?

These new immigration reforms are going to make it more difficult for Pakistani nationals to apply for UK citizenship. With higher skill requirements, stricter English proficiency standards, and longer residency periods, those hoping to move to the UK will face more challenges.

These changes are part of a broader effort to lower net migration, raise the skill levels of incoming workers, and support the development of British workers. If you are considering applying for UK citizenship, it’s important to stay updated on these changes, understand the new requirements, and ensure your application meets the higher standards.

Final Thoughts

The UK’s immigration policy changes represent a new and more challenging setting for Pakistani nationals looking to gain citizenship. While the government’s approach focuses on attracting high-skilled workers and supporting local talent, it also means tougher hurdles for those seeking to start a new life in the UK. 

If you meet the new requirements and contribute meaningfully to the UK’s economy, you will have a better chance of succeeding in your citizenship journey. So, make sure you prepare carefully, stay informed, and make your application as strong as possible.

 

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Noor-Mukadam
Social Issues

Justice Still Waits: Zahir’s Appeal Delayed Again in Noor Mukadam Case

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A

Nearly four years have passed since Noor Mukadam’s horrific murder, yet her family is still waiting for justice. This week’s adjournment of Zahir Jaffer’s appeal is not another delay it’s a painful reminder of how slow and uncertain the justice process can be in Pakistan.

  • Before moving further, here’s what you need to know:
    The Supreme Court has postponed Zahir Jaffer’s appeal hearing to May 19, after the defense asked for more time to submit documents.
  • His lawyers are now raising mental health as a key issue, something many believe is a stalling tactic, not a genuine concern.
  • The public, especially women’s rights groups, is once again expressing anger and heartbreak, questioning how long justice can be postponed.
  • Zahir Jaffer’s appeal against his death sentence was supposed to be heard on May 13, 2025. Instead, the hearing was adjourned. For Noor’s family and countless others who have been following the case, it feels like déjà vu. Each delay makes justice feel more like a distant dream than a reality.

A Case That Still Haunts Us
Noor’s murder in July 2021 shook Pakistan to its core. She was 27, full of life, and trusting enough to meet someone she once knew. She never returned home. Zahir Jaffer was arrested at the crime scene. The horror of what happened to her was hard to process and even harder to forget. In 2022, a trial court sentenced Zahir to death, along with additional jail time and a fine. Two of his staff members received prison sentences too. But the acquittal of others, including his wealthy parents and employees of TherapyWorks, made many feel like the powerful can always find a way out.

Mental Illness or Delay Tactic?
During this week’s hearing, Zahir’s lawyer Salman Safdar claimed that no medical board had been appointed to assess his client’s mental health—a detail he says could influence the case outcome. Justice Hashim Kakar questioned the justification for yet another adjournment. Still, the court granted more time. Prosecutor Shah Khawar disagreed with the delay, but was told to respond once the new documents are submitted. And so, what could’ve been progress turned into another pause.

A Nation Tired of Waiting
The response online was instant. “Another date? Another excuse?” one person posted. Others asked what many are thinking: how many delays are too many? Each one seems to add to the pain Noor’s family carries and chips away at public faith in the system.

Women’s rights groups have been vocal too. For them, this isn’t about one case—it’s about what the justice system signals to every woman in Pakistan. That even when the evidence is clear, and the confession is there, justice can still be delayed.

Justice Must Mean Something
Noor’s story became a rallying cry. It reminded the country how vulnerable women can be even in supposedly safe spaces, even with all the right education, even from good families. It sparked protests, conversations, and a demand for change. But what does it say when even such a high-profile case is caught in an endless loop?
It’s not just about following the law.

It’s about making sure that the law protects the vulnerable and holds the guilty accountable without endless loopholes. So we ask again: how long must Noor’s family wait? How many times will justice be pushed down the calendar before it is finally served? Maybe, just maybe, we owe Noor more than just remembrance.

What do you think—will justice for Noor ever stop being delayed?

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FAIZA BUTT
Lifestyle

Exploring ‘The Male Figure’ at Art Dubai 2025 with Faiza Butt

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A

As the global art world converges at Art Dubai 2025, one voice stands out for its poignant exploration of identity, gender, and the politics of representation. In this interview, the artist behind the thought-provoking series The Male Figure speaks about the inspiration behind their work, the impact of global conflicts, and the personal and cultural influences that shape their intricate visual narratives.

WOW360: Please tell us about the inspiration for the central theme or subject of your artwork at this exhibition at Art Dubai.

Faiza Butt: The curated body of work titled The Male Figure features archetypal examples of my practice. My work focuses on gender politics as part of broader debates in art. I consistently depict the ‘Muslim man’ using distinct cultural references, often rendered in soft pastel shades to disarm and challenge knee-jerk cultural associations. These portrayals aim to humanize and complicate a figure often flattened by stereotype.

WOW360: You’ve explored themes of politics, gender, and identity in your earlier artwork. How is the current changing political environment reflected in your work?

Faiza Butt: I see myself as a social commentator. As an artist of migratory origins, I continue to explore dislocation, cultural constructs, conflict, and various socio-political issues of our time. The recent conflicts in the Middle East have deeply affected us all, and I address societal polarization through provocative visual narratives.

One such work, Speech to the Wind, features two male portraits—one of a Muslim man and the other of a Hasidic Jew. At first glance, they appear almost identical, sharing common visual elements: central composition, beards, head coverings, and contemplative expressions. They are placed against a meticulously rendered skyscape, filled with shooting stars and cosmic flux—symbolic of the larger, eternal realities that surround us. This backdrop serves as a contemplative counterpoint to the imagined nature of human conflicts and ideological clashes. The piece is created in hope—to spark reflection and deeper understanding in these troubled times.

I’ve drawn two male portraits, distinct in their spiritual identities. They both display very similar features in their outlooks with head gear and facial hair, however it is clear that they stand at opposing ends of religious identities. -Faiza Butt, March 2025

1 of 2

WOW360: Your signature style, with its intricate dotting technique, has been compared to the pardokht style in miniature painting. What does this meticulous process mean to you as an artist, and how does it shape the emotional tone of your work?

Faiza Butt: My inspiration originally came from photojournalism—chance encounters with powerful images in the media. I repurpose these photographs through a detailed process of distillation, creating new narratives. My drawings, crafted in ink on polyester film using thousands of fine dots, balance between Indian miniature techniques and the pixelated language of digital photography.

The rigorous act of constructing each image dot by dot builds not only a visual surface but an emotional resonance. This meditative process infuses my work with depth and allows the viewer to connect more intimately with the subject.

WOW360: Was there a particular moment or influence—personal or cultural—that sparked the creation of this body of work?

Faiza Butt: Yes—during my time as a student at the Slade School of Art, I actively rejected traditional painting as a form of protest against Western art history. Instead, I embraced image-making rooted in Indo-Persian miniature traditions. This wasn’t just a rebellion against cultural imperialism, but also a feminist resistance to the longstanding hierarchies in art—where historically, man is the creator and woman the object.

My practice is an inquiry into the human condition. Migration is in my DNA; I’ve inherited generations of stories about displacement and the search for belonging. This current series of male portraits, especially those in distinct religious garb, is my artistic response to global unrest. At a time when ideological divides are sharpening, I believe the role of the artist becomes more urgent than ever—to question, to provoke, and to inspire.

WOW360: Art Dubai attracts a diverse and international audience—what conversations or reflections are you hoping to spark through your presence here? What message would you want your work to convey?

Faiza Butt: Dubai, as a hub of the global south, provides a uniquely diverse and economically dynamic environment. It’s an ideal setting for raising bold, reflective questions. With its vast migrant population, Dubai stands as a testament to harmonious co-existence—but that doesn’t mean art should become complacent.

Art must remain a space for critical engagement. I hope my work evokes dialogue around the fragility of peace, the need for shared power, and the ongoing issues of prejudice, discrimination, and cultural control. Through my finely crafted portraits of men, I aim to explore humanity itself—not from the standpoint of ideology, but from a place of empathy, curiosity, and reflection.

About the Artist

Born in Lahore, Pakistan, Faiza Butt trained at the National College of Arts, Lahore and the Slade School of Fine Arts, London. Her meticulously crafted paintings use a technique reminiscent of the ‘par dokht’ style in miniature painting, involving application of tiny dots. Butt’s work has been exhibited in various museums and included in several publications.

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Woman in charge
Entertainment

Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy’s ‘Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge’ Nominated for Emmy Award

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A

Two-time Academy Award-winning filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy has been nominated at the 46 th Annual News and Documentary Emmy Awards for her critically acclaimed documentary “Diane von Furstenberg: Woman in Charge.” She has previously received 13 Emmy nominations and has won 5 awards.

Nominated in the category of Outstanding Business and Economic Documentary, the film – co-directed by Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy and Trish Dalton – offers an intimate portrait of iconic fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg. It joins a highly competitive slate that includes titles from Netflix, HBO, Hulu, and PBS.

Produced by the Sutter Road Picture Company and Fabiola Beracasa Beckman Media Production, the documentary premiered as the opening night feature at the 2024 Tribeca Festival and was released on Hulu to critical acclaim. It has already garnered global recognition, including the Cinema for Peace Dove Award for Women’s Empowerment.

Diane’s story is one of unyielding courage and creative rebellion – a reminder that true leadership is born from authenticity, perseverance, and vulnerability. Brought to life by an all-female crew, this nomination is a celebration of every woman who refuses to be defined by limitations, said Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy.

The documentary traces von Furstenberg’s remarkable life – from her beginnings as a young entrepreneur launching the iconic wrap dress in 1974, to her enduring status as a symbol of freedom, femininity, and power.

The 46th Annual News & Documentary Emmy Awards will be held in Fall 2025. The nomination adds to Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy’s storied career, reinforcing her legacy as one of the most influential documentary filmmakers in the world.

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Depilex Smileagain Foundation Celebrates New Law for Acid Attack Survivors
Social Issues

Depilex Smileagain Foundation Celebrates New Law for Acid Attack Survivors

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A

The Depilex Smile Again Foundation extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Punjab Assembly for the unanimous passage of the Punjab Acid Control Bill, 2025—a powerful step toward protecting survivors and preventing future acid attacks.

“We are deeply thankful to the Punjab government and all stakeholders for recognizing the urgency of this issue,” said Masarrat Misbah, Founder President of the Foundation.

“This legislation is a long-awaited victory for every survivor who has suffered in silence.” The foundation especially acknowledges the role of Ms. Hina Pervaiz Butt (MPA) and Syed Farhad Ali Shah (Prosecutor General Punjab) for their leadership in pushing this bill forward.

Depilex Smile Again Foundation remains committed to its mission: restoring lives through free
surgeries, counseling, and support for acid survivors across Pakistan.

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Social Issues

2nd Life Pakistan 2.0 Champions Waste Management for Climate Innovation

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A

The grand finale of 2nd Life Pakistan 2.0 — a national climate innovation programme. At the finale, six standout teams were awarded cash prizes totalling PKR 2.625 million to further develop and scale their projects. These included winners from both the growth and idea stages of the competition.

Hosted by SEED Ventures in collaboration with Unilever Pakistan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Pakistan serving as the Secretariat for the National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP), the event marked the conclusion of a six-month journey into circular economy entrepreneurship, spotlighting startups that view waste not as a problem but as a possibility.

The programme has redefined how entrepreneurship can contribute to climate resilience, demonstrating that circularity is not just a concept; it is a practical path to a cleaner, stronger, and more inclusive Pakistan.

The showcase brought together climate-focused startups, policymakers, and sustainability leaders to highlight innovative solutions for rethinking waste. With support through mentorship and business development, over 30 young ventures from across Pakistan turned environmental challenges into scalable, impact-driven businesses, tackling everything from e-waste and textiles to food scraps and agri by-products.

Tariq Ali Nizamani, MD of Sindh Solid Waste Management Board, also lent his voice to the celebration. Speaking on the importance of youth-led climate action, he remarked, “Pakistan’s climate journey cannot move forward without innovation and action from its youth. Initiatives like 2nd Life Pakistan empower young minds to turn environmental challenges into solutions that uplift communities and support inclusive green growth.”

In an era where the climate crisis looms large, stories like these matter. They offer hope — and more importantly — a roadmap. 2nd Life Pakistan 2.0 is proof that when innovation meets purpose, real change is possible.

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Social IssuesSustainability

Digital Echoes: Reshaping the Education Landscape with AI

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A

Synergy, a Cambridge Schools Community, successfully held the second event in its Digital Echoes series,  “Exploring Stakeholder Narratives in AI and Digital Transformation.” The conference took place at Karachi Grammar School, with an inspiring lineup of speakers and an engaged audience of educators, stakeholders, and parents.

This year’s gathering focused on how digitization and artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping the education landscape. Discussions explored key issues such as improving learning experiences, creating policies for ethical and safe use of AI tools, and understanding the long-term implications of these technologies for mental health and well-being.

Building on the Digital Echoes art exhibition held in November 2024, this event continued the dialogue on the transformative effects of AI. The earlier exhibition allowed students to voice their thoughts, fears, and hopes through art, capturing how the younger generation perceives the intersection of technology and education.

The keynote address was delivered by Mr. Carl P. Lander, Principal of Karachi Grammar School and Chair of Synergy. He emphasized the importance of adapting teaching practices to align with the rapidly evolving digital world while ensuring ethical standards and a human-centric approach.

Attendees appreciated the diverse perspectives shared, which ranged from practical ways to integrate AI tools in classrooms to strategies for safeguarding mental health. The discussions reinforced the need for collaboration among educators, policymakers, and technology developers to create a balanced and forward-thinking education system.

By fostering such meaningful conversations, Digital Echoes continues to serve as a platform for exploring the opportunities and challenges brought by AI and digital transformation.

 

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A Continuing Dialogue

‘Digital Echoes’ serves as a testament to the evolving dialogue between technology and education. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into educational settings, initiatives like this exhibition encourage students and educators to reflect on and navigate the complexities of digital transformation, ensuring that the future of learning is both innovative and human-centric.

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NewsSocial Issues

New Trump Travel Ban Could Soon Target Pakistanis, Afghans & Others!

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A
  • The Trump administration is reportedly considering expanding its travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan, citing security concerns and immigration policies.
  • The potential ban could impact thousands of Pakistanis and Afghans seeking visas for travel, work, or family reunification in the U.S., sparking outrage and diplomatic tensions.
  • Critics argue the move is politically motivated, unfairly targets Muslim-majority countries, and could harm U.S. relations with South Asia.

The Trump administration is once again making headlines with reports that it may expand its controversial travel ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan. This move, which could have severe implications for thousands of individuals seeking to visit or immigrate to the United States, has sparked intense debate both domestically and internationally.

According to sources close to the administration, national security officials are considering imposing new travel restrictions on citizens from these two South Asian countries, citing concerns about terrorism, border security, and immigration policy enforcement. If implemented, the ban could affect students, business travelers, families, and even green card applicants, adding to the growing list of nations already facing strict U.S. travel limitations.

A History of Controversial Bans

This would not be the first time President Donald Trump has taken an aggressive stance on immigration and national security. His original travel ban, imposed during his presidency, restricted travel from several Muslim-majority countries, including Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, and Somalia. The policy faced multiple legal challenges but was ultimately upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court. Critics viewed it as discriminatory and a political move aimed at energizing Trump’s conservative voter base.

The potential expansion of this ban to include Pakistan and Afghanistan has drawn sharp criticism from human rights activists and legal experts, who argue that such measures unfairly target specific religious and ethnic groups under the guise of national security. They also question the effectiveness of the ban, noting that individuals from these countries already undergo rigorous screening before receiving U.S. visas.

Diplomatic Fallout and Economic Impact

A travel ban on Pakistanis and Afghans could create new tensions between Washington and Islamabad, as well as further strain already fragile relations with Afghanistan. Pakistan has long been an ally of the U.S. in counterterrorism efforts, while Afghanistan is still recovering from years of war and instability following the U.S. withdrawal in 2021.

Economically, such a ban could disrupt business ties, particularly in the technology, healthcare, and education sectors, where thousands of Pakistanis and Afghans seek opportunities in the U.S. each year. Students from both countries also form a significant portion of international enrollments in American universities, contributing millions to the U.S. education system.

Conclusion

However, such a decision could backfire, as critics argue it would alienate South Asian communities in the U.S., provoke backlash from civil rights organizations, and weaken America’s image as a welcoming nation.

As discussions continue, the world watches closely to see whether this potential travel ban will become a reality—or if it’s simply another controversial headline in an already polarized political landscape.

Stay tuned to wow360.

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Trailblazer

Breaking Barriers: Women Take Charge of Ground Handling in Pakistan’s Aviation Industry

by Ayesal A
written by Ayesal A
  • Historic Milestone: Women are now leading ground handling operations in Pakistan’s aviation industry, marking a major step toward gender inclusivity.
  • Impact on Aviation: Female-led teams are improving efficiency, inspiring future generations, and aligning Pakistan with global aviation diversity trends.
  • Challenges & Future Prospects: While progress is evident, addressing gender biases, investing in training, and creating supportive work environments remain crucial for long-term success.
Pakistan’s aviation industry has reached a historic milestone as women step into leadership roles in ground handling operations—a domain traditionally dominated by men. This landmark achievement signals a new era of gender inclusivity and empowerment, reinforcing the country’s commitment to breaking stereotypes and fostering a more diverse workforce.
For decades, ground handling in Pakistan’s airports has been considered a physically demanding and highly technical field, requiring expertise in aircraft servicing, baggage management, and logistical coordination. However, with the introduction of female-led ground handling teams, the industry is witnessing a remarkable transformation.

Aviation’s Gender Revolution

The push for greater women’s participation in aviation has gained momentum in recent years. While female pilots, air traffic controllers, and cabin crew have gradually made their mark, ground operations remained an area with limited female representation—until now. Airlines and airport authorities across the country have started recruiting and training women for key roles in ramp services, baggage handling, aircraft marshaling, and passenger assistance. These trailblazing professionals are not only proving their capabilities but are also inspiring future generations of women to pursue careers in aviation.

The Impact on Pakistan’s Aviation Industry

Experts believe that diversifying the workforce will bring multiple benefits to Pakistan’s aviation industry. Studies have shown that gender-inclusive teams often lead to higher efficiency, better problem-solving, and improved workplace culture.
Moreover, initiatives like these align with global trends in aviation, where international airlines and airports actively promote women’s participation in technical roles. Countries such as the UAE, UK, and USA have already seen significant success with female-led ground handling teams, and Pakistan is now joining the ranks of progressive nations embracing change.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite this progress, challenges remain. The aviation sector must work to eliminate gender biases, provide equal growth opportunities, and invest in specialized training programs tailored for women. Creating a supportive work environment with facilities like flexible shifts and mentorship programs will also be crucial in ensuring long-term success.

A Historic Step Toward a More Inclusive Future

Pakistan’s decision to empower women in ground handling is more than just a milestone—it’s a symbol of change, resilience, and progress. As more women take up roles in aviation, the industry is set to become more inclusive, dynamic, and innovative. This bold move not only challenges outdated perceptions but also paves the way for a future where gender equality in aviation is not an exception, but the norm.
Stay tuned to wow360.
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