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Syra Yousuf
 Young and talented, Syra Yousuf is a perfect combination of beauty and brains. Despite attaining so much fame, her humble nature makes her stand out from the rest. Armed with a disarming smile and oodles of talent, the strong willed and modest Syra Yousuf is here to stay for long. Her foray into the industry was purely unplanned. Although she started off with television commercials she got real fame as a VJ on a music channel. She has mesmerised audiences with her innocence in her captivating performance in the drama serial Mera Naseeb. Her fascinating on-screen portrayal of Nazia, proved that not only does this young beauty have a knack for acting, but she also has the talent to give a tough time to seasoned actors. Recently Mag4you.com had a candid chat with Syra where she talked about her showbiz journey so far. Excerpts:
How did you enter showbiz?
I entered showbiz quite randomly and it wasn't planned at all. My elder sister, Alishba, was already working in this field, one day I accompanied my sister for her audition for a TV commercial. I met Fahad, my manager, over there. He asked me to go for the same audition but I turned down the offer. On his insistence, I went through the audition and eventually got selected and that's how it all began!
Then, how did you get into VJ-ing?
I got several offers for becoming a VJ after doing a couple of commercials, but I wasn't interested in any of them. I used to be very shy and I had thought that speaking non-stop in front of the camera would be really intimidating for me, but a particular channel was really persistent with their offer and I finally accepted it.
What qualities do you think makes a good VJ?
It's all about person's interpersonal skills. A good VJ does not need to imitate someone else's style. You just have to be yourself to leave your mark on viewers.
What is the most interesting thing about being a VJ?
For me, the most interesting part is that thousands of people watch my show and stay tuned in while I am speaking. It motivates me to be more creative with my words and to hold my audience till the end of the show.
How did you feel when you faced the camera for the first time?
It was quite a nerve-wracking experience! Since I was very shy by nature, it of course wasn't easy at all, but with time I got used to it.
 What did you like the best about your show?
The fact that nobody pressurised me to be something, and that I can do it the way I wanted to.
Tell us about any interesting incidents that happened during your live programs?
It was my very first show and my brother-in-law called on the show on-air to annoy me. I was so nervous I couldn't recognise his voice and was about to freak out when he disclosed his identity. Then there was another caller who wanted to send her brother's marriage proposal for me (laughs).
What do you enjoy the most – modelling, acting or hosting?
For me all three are equally charming. The best thing about modelling is that the work gets done in a shorter span of time; acting is also interesting as each day you learn new things, but yes, I enjoy hosting the most. While hosting I totally have to be myself and I don't have to follow anyone's directions.
How did Mera Naseeb happen?
I was getting offers for various drama serials for quite a long time but I wasn't interested in any of them. I was always double minded about acting. Momina had offered me a role in Dastaan, but I had refused it and it was later played by Mehreen Raheal. Later she approached me again and sent Mera Naseeb's script. The moment I read it, I was in love with the character. It was a wonderful opportunity for me to start my acting career.
How was your experience working with the most senior actress of our industry?
I am very lucky to have worked with our television industry's veteran actors in my very first drama serial. Samina Aunty, Sakina Aunty, Bushra Aunty and Rubina Aunty all were quite helpful and I have learnt a lot from them.
How different is the real Syra from Nazia?
Well, I used to be like Nazia a lot. There was a point in my life when I wasn't very expressive, just like her. I used to be very shy, which I am not anymore.
You shared a wonderful relationship with Sanam on-screen. Is it same off-screen too?
I knew her even before Mera Naseeb. She was my cousin's friend and is a great person to be with. We both do a lot of crazy stuff on the sets (laughs).
Tell us about some memorable moments you spent while being on the sets of Mera Naseeb.
There have been some incredible moments; once in the middle of a very emotional scene, there were sudden fits of laughter and everyone was crazily laughing. Everyone panicked a lot when we were on tight schedules. Plus when we had to shoot till late at night, everyone got in a bad mood because everyone just wanted to go home.
Is there any significant difference between Syra at home and Syra on-screen?
At home I am obviously more myself. When I am among my colleagues I try not to be as blunt as I am at home. I am afraid that if I express myself too openly in front of strangers, people might get offended.
In your opinion, how important is it to have a pretty face in showbiz?
It's true that a pretty face can get fame a lot easier and faster than probably an average looking person. But for me, talent is more important than anything else. I strongly believe that a person's talent can overshadow his looks anytime.
What would be your reaction if Shazia's role was offered to you?
Shazia's character is loud and rebellious. I have been through a rebellious phase during my teenage, like any other kid. I could relate myself with her character too. But once you are playing a certain character you kind of fall in love with it. I love Nazia's role and I am really happy that I got a chance to portray it on-screen.
Who inspires you as an actor?
To be very honest I was never into acting. For me, it was always a fantasy that how could anyone can act so wonderfully and give a character a real touch. When I entered showbiz I got a chance to meet some finest actors like Sakina Aunty. She inspired me a lot. One day I asked her how she was able to bring out those beautiful emotions on her face while shooting a sad scene. She told me to think about any painful incident and the sad expressions would automatically come on your face.
What is the biggest challenge of being a celebrity?
The only thing that I take as a challenge is to keep up the good work. Once you deliver something good in your first attempt, people expect better in the next one. I have become too picky and selective about the roles now.
Have you signed any other drama serials?
I recently signed another play, Mohabbat Ruth Jaye Na, on which my character comes after the 8th episode.
Will you accept any film offer, locally or internationally?
Our film industry has demolished now, so no chance to work over here. Nevertheless, if a good offer comes from people like Shoaib Mansoor then I will definitely think about giving it a shot.
I won't sign any Bollywood movie, just to make an appearance in Indian cinema. For me, my character has always been important. I will definitely go for a project that has some weight. To work in Hollywood has always been my dream, but again I won't sign any film randomly over there too. The project should be worthy enough to work for.
Success is a double edged sword... your comments?
 It's true that success has its pros and cons both. But for me, it is more important how to handle this fame and success. Some people really take success to their heads so it becomes harder to even initiate a conversation with them. The drive to do better next time dies out if a person starts considering others inferior.
How do you take life?
I take life as it comes and go with the flow. I don't think too much and don't make plans about anything.
If you weren't an actor, what would you like to be?
Well, I always wanted to be a chef and that I am sure will be someday.
What is family to you?
My family is everything to me; for me they come even before my work. I always pick one project at a time so that I don't miss those little beautiful family moments because of work pressures.
Since your two other sisters are also working in the same field, is there a competitive environment at home about who gets the best project in hand?
No, there is no such thing with us at all. Recently a project was offered to me but I wasn't interested in it, Alishba liked it and gave her approval for it.
What is one thing that people don't know about you?
There are many things that people don't know about me and I like to keep them secret.
What are your views on love and marriage?
Love is something that can happen anytime anywhere. Everyone wants to marry a person whom they love. But sadly the concept of love has changed now. People have become materialistic. Marriage is a beautiful thing, everyone wants to have their own family but at the same time for me it is not a must. I have relatives who never got married and are as happy as anyone else. To be really honest, at present, marriage is not on my mind.
What would you prefer, love marriage or an arranged one?
Love should always be there because a marriage cannot be successful without it.
What are the qualities that you would look for in your dream man?
I would want him to be plain and simple. He should be courageous with a beautiful heart and strong mind; he should also be financially stable. I guess every girl looks for the same qualities.
What is fashion to you?
I believe 'you are fashion'. We create fashion and we should know how to carry it elegantly. I don't like fashion that has been followed by everyone; it should have an individualistic touch.
How do you evaluate today's fashion scene?
Pakistan's fashion industry is undoubtedly moving ahead. There was a time when we were nowhere. Very few names were ruling the industry and choice was limited. But now, turn to any street and you'll find many budding fashion designers out there. I believe opportunities should be given to the younger lot.
Suppose you found a lamp and out pops a genie, you get one wish, what would it be?
Person's wishes and desires vary with time. At present, I am pretty content with my life and I won't wish for anything else.
What do you like to do in your leisure hours?
I love to sleep whenever I get free time. Cooking and listening music are my some other hobbies.
Syra In A Nutshell
Zodiac Sign... Aries-Taurus
Do you believe in stars... I'd like to say 'no' but I do believe in them.
A very common question people ask you all the time... When will you get married?
Craziest fan call you have ever received…There have been many, but the most memorable moment was one when one of my fan came to meet me but she was so excited that she could barely talk.
Over used words... I try not to repeat words but I used to say 'like' a lot.
Your firm believe... Dream big you will achieve big.
Your first crush... He was my class fellow in grade 7. I don't even know his name.
Best day of your life till now... All my birthdays have been amazing.
Worst day of your life... I have bad days but I don't like to remember them.
 Syra As A Fashionista
Fashion inspiration... I like to create my own style and it inspires me when small things put together in a single item.
One thing you would like to change... I always wanted to control my anger and it is good that I have learnt how to do it.
Latest fashion buy... I usually shop in chunks. I recently went to Turkey and brought myself a lot of accessories and tops.
Favourite item of clothing... A good pair of skinny jeans.
Fashion statement... You are fashion!
Favourite make-up trick... I don't use make up. I just apply kohl with a little bit of blush on cheeks.
Fashion blunder... I haven't made any blunders because I am very particular about my looks while going out.
Style tip... Just be natural, it is a way to go.
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