Pakistani actor and model Amna Ilyas says her biggest ambition is not to appear everywhere, but to be remembered for work that truly matters. Having navigated shifting trends in the entertainment industry, she has carefully balanced acting, modelling, theatre and, most recently, entrepreneurship through her namesake clothing label.
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Speaking about her career choices, Amna emphasised quality over quantity. She explained that she prefers taking on fewer roles each year if they leave a lasting impression rather than appearing in numerous forgettable projects. Her approach reflects a deliberate shift after years of experimenting with different opportunities and learning from difficult professional experiences.
The actor acknowledged facing challenging periods marked by stereotypical casting, weak scripts and industry politics. However, she described those struggles as transformative, helping her redefine her priorities and focus on projects that bring personal satisfaction and creative fulfilment.
A major source of excitement for her today is her fashion brand, launched quietly online last year before expanding into a pop-up exhibition in Karachi and a debut runway presentation at LAAM Fashion Week in Lahore. Unlike many celebrity clothing ventures treated as side projects, Amna says her label is a carefully planned extension of her identity, built on years of experience working closely with leading designers during her modelling career.
The brand was developed alongside stylist Ehtesham Ansari, who serves as creative director, supported by a small production team. Despite limited resources and a tight timeline, the team successfully produced a 16-look collection inspired by sunrise and sunset hues for its fashion week debut. The positive customer response, including immediate purchases from the runway, reinforced her confidence in the venture.
While her fashion career gained momentum, meaningful acting opportunities also began returning. She portrayed a police officer in the drama Humraaz, directed by Farooq Rind, a role originally written for a male character but later adapted specifically for her after the director saw her theatre work.
She currently appears as a barrister in Aik Aur Pakeezah, written by Bee Gul and directed by Kashif Nisar. The drama explores cybercrime and social pressures, with Amna’s character serving as a strong voice of reason amid complex societal issues.
Reflecting on earlier setbacks, she admitted that insecurity once pushed her toward unsuitable projects. Over time, she learned to seek clarity about roles and collaborate only with teams that respect actors and storytelling. She also spoke candidly about industry pressures, colourism and inappropriate behaviour, stressing that maintaining personal dignity has always been non-negotiable.
Amna believes perceptions of beauty in Pakistan are slowly evolving, though change remains gradual. Having long challenged fairness-centric beauty standards, she says she now approaches criticism with humour and confidence.
Looking ahead, the actor plans to continue balancing acting with business while remaining selective about new scripts. With family responsibilities, creative ambitions and entrepreneurial commitments, she says life is busy — but intentionally so.
For Amna Ilyas, success is no longer about constant visibility; it is about creating work that endures and leaves a memorable impact.
