The Lahore-born Roma Michael believes in always being outspoken and brave when it comes to activism for the rights of minorities and women. But this belief is also reflected in her career choices in modelling, beauty pageants and even her work in films and TV dramas.

This, along with a passion for travelling, has landed her opportunities beyond the ordinary, especially for someone who is still quite new to the ways of showbiz and is still in the process of establishing a firm foothold in that world.

So far, her career trajectory seems to be headed in the right direction and Roma has every reason to believe that each new breaking dawn and following new day will hold the promise of something extraordinary. She still believes there are exciting new horizons for her to discover and paths for her to explore further.

Q. Fashion modelling, beauty pageants, films and television dramas, what’s your favourite field of self-expression?

I definitely have worked longer in the modelling industry and have more experience in that, but my favourite is film and TV, as it is much more fun, experimental, and brings out the best in my creativity and versatility.

Roma Michael is on a roll when it comes to her modelling and acting career for now, but it remains to be seen how her outspoken nature will be able to navigate showbiz’s turbulent waters

Q. What’s your role in your debut film, the yet-unreleased Delhi Gate?

I play Gaharia, the second lead of Delhi Gate, who is a bold, confident and thug-like shopkeeper.

Q. The film Kahay Dil Jidhar [2020] came and went. How did it affect your acting career?

Kahay Dil Jidhar will always be a special part of my life. It didn’t do very well at the box office, but I did learn a lot from the experience and was also offered jobs in modelling and acting based on it.

Q. Describe your foray into television dramas with Tu Zindagi Hai [2020] and Pyari Nimmo [2023]?

My journey into television dramas began with Tu Zindagi Hai and Pyari Nimmo. These shows provided me with invaluable experience and exposure to the world of television acting. Tu Zindagi Hai allowed me to explore complex characters and hone my acting skills, while Pyari Nimmo provided me with the opportunity to showcase my versatility as an actor. Overall, these projects marked the beginning of an exciting chapter in both my life and career, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of them.

Q. As an influencer and content creator on social media, what has been your biggest achievement so far?

It was only through my social media presence that I got the chance to be part of the well-known international beauty pageant Miss Charm, and I landed the opportunity to proudly represent Pakistan on a global scale.

Q. As a fashion model, how has fashion’s recent downward trajectory affected your career?

It has significantly impacted my career. My workflow has decreased compared to the past, and the saturation in the field has created a chaotic environment. However, I’m adapting by exploring new opportunities and diversifying my portfolio, to stay relevant in an ever-evolving industry.

Q. Would you describe yourself as a hopeless romantic who believes in fairytale endings? Do you have a happily-ever-after somewhere in the near future?

I would definitely describe myself as a person who believes in the strong values of love, companionship and bonds. I believe you create your happy endings, obviously with God’s help and mercy, by making the right choices in life, even if they seem hard at the time.

Published in Dawn, ICON, March 10th, 2024