US TALK
With his unconventional looks and inimitable style, up-and-coming model Sikander Khan has already made a significant impact on the fashion industry. After being spotted by a clothing brand on Facebook where he used to post his pictures, he was invited for wardrobe trials. To his utter surprise, the brand immediately cast him, declaring him perfect for the shoot. This marked the beginning of Sikander’s journey, and, with the assistance of model coordinator Yashu Hameed, he began receiving offers.
Sikander showcased his versatility as a model in campaigns for brands such as Brumano, Zellbury, Diverse, 1st Step, Oxford, Republic, and more, and worked with designers like Amir Adnan and Nauman Arfeen.
After completing his BCom, Sikander spent some time working at a bank while also continuing his studies, eventually earning a master’s degree in sociology from Karachi University. Sikander is focused on pursuing acting and is currently undertaking a three-year diploma in theatre and drama from the Arts Council of Karachi.
Us: What does success mean to you?
Sikander Khan: Following your passion with sincerity is the real success.
Us: What was the career advice that aided in your improvement?
SK: To solidify one’s strong footing in the field, self-improvement and punctuality are essential.
Us: How did you carve out a niche in the industry?
SK: Almighty blessed me, and I had this inbuilt confidence in myself that I can take things in my stride by channelling my energy in the right areas. I followed a proper fitness regimen, observed a professional routine, watched my diet, and started taking things positively.
Us: With an increasing magnitude of work, how do you manage to look different?
SK: Every time I am being offered a project, I strive to showcase versatility, and that is highly applauded by all, as I dare to experiment and break convention.
Us: What initial challenges did you have to face when you stepped into the industry?
SK: I struggled with my pronunciation and was overweight. I saw these obstacles as challenges and overcame them with hard work.
Us: Do you think that good looks and connections make a star?
SK: I would surely not endorse it. For me, it’s the effort of a person that he invests and puts forth to attain his objectives.
Us: Of the models you adore, who really inspires you?
SK: The youngest IFBB Pro in bodybuilding, fitness model, strong businessman, and influencer, Jeff Seid is a big inspiration to me. He even started a sports and lifestyle apparel line and wrote a book called Guide to Aesthetics in which he describes his journey and stresses the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle.
Us: How do you deal with self-doubt?
SK: Whenever I encounter any preconceived notions or misgivings, I tell myself that because I am the main person working on the project, everyone on the team – from stylists to makeup artists, designers, brand manager, technicians, and cameraman – will be there to capture me. I take things more boldly as a result of that confidence boost.
Us: How has social media changed things for you?
SK: It has positively facilitated things for models, as the pictures and work that we upload serve as our portfolio, viewed by prospective clients who get in touch with models directly to cast them in projects. As a result, there is a significant reduction in the confusion and wasted time that existed previously.
Us: What are three qualities youngsters coming into this field should be fully loaded with?
SK: The journey is made easier and goals are attainable by being on time, being clear-headed, and making genuine efforts to minimize barriers.
Date of birth
14th July.
The best thing about being a teenager was
Being carefree with no pressures!! All you have to do is eat, study, play, and sleep.
The worst thing about being a teenager was
Indecisiveness about the choice of career.
Your favourite actors were
Shaheera Jalil Albasit, Saba Qamar, and Sania Saeed.
What used to hurt me the most was
I was the youngest and most pampered child, so I used to really get perturbed when I was scolded by anyone.
I wish I had known then
The value my own self.
My favourite subject was
Drawing.
My least favourite subject was
Urdu.
My favourite TV show was
I used to like watching cartoons, and Tom and Jerry is still my favourite.
The mentor I always turned to and relied on was
Yashu Hameed.
My favourite sports were
Football, swimming, and boxing.