By Tahmena Bokhari

I have often been asked how I feel representing an Islamic country such as Pakistan. As Mrs Pakistan World 2010 I am here to represent a lighter side of Pakistan. As a social worker, I am using this platform to create the necessary change in the hearts and minds of Pakistanis and the people of the world so that together we can create a stronger Pakistan.

By Zainab Mahmood

There goes my love of Belgian truffles, or a chance to walk down the Champs Elysees again or patronise my favourite seafood restaurant in the suburbs of Lyon with my mother, who incidentally wears the niqab. Considering we the misguided masses turned on Danish butter, Portuguese chicken and a Norwegian mobile company when the infamous caricature incident took place, one can only wonder if Pakistan will declare a fatwa on French fries in light of the French government’s stance on the ‘burqa’.

After attacks on mosques last month left almost a hundred Ahmadis dead, Pakistan must decide what kind of nation it wants to be. Choose wisely, implores Zainab Mahmood.

By Tahmena Bokhari

Recently in the multicultural mosaic of Canada, the issue of the hijab and niqab has really taken on a life of its own. We argue about security threats, religious freedom, minority rights, accommodations, and so on. Most of it, frankly, to me has been overblown and Canadians have completely missed the point on this one. I also find it interesting that it is mainly men who are prominent spokespersons when the niqab, hijab, or any form of women’s dress comes up in the media.