Colourism began at home for Amna Ilyas
For decades, many have had to break through colourism to enter Pakistan's fashion and entertainment industry, but the recent global outrage in the form of the #BlackLivesMatter movement has sparked a debate surrounding colourism in our own backyards.
Several have spoken up against the networks that set unrealistic precedents and beauty standards for artists and non-celebrities, alike. Renowned Pakistani actor and model Amna Ilyas has always been very upfront about her stance on the issue. She has, time and again, opened up about her own experiences of living with a dusky skin tone and the discrimination that she has had to face because of it.
However, in a recent interview with Voice of America, the Baaji star has shared how it all started from her own home. "As a child, I was told a few things about my complexion, such as by my mother and aunt, who made me realise very early on that my deep complexion 'would not suit me well when I grow up’," the actor shared. She went on to add, "As a child, you may not understand the meaning of these words but when you are conscious, you understand the psychology behind these thoughts. When I realised this, I stood up against it."