Zara Durrani is more than a media personality; she’s a storyteller, model, actress, and producer whose life is a vivid blend of creativity, cultural appreciation, and compassion. Born in Pakistan and having lived in Canada, Paris, and beyond, Zara’s career is as diverse as her experiences. Through her work, she’s brought people and cultures together, using the power of storytelling to connect audiences from all walks of life.
A Global Childhood That Shaped Her Worldview
By the age of seven, Zara had already lived in seven different countries. This whirlwind childhood gave her a deep appreciation for the richness of cultural diversity. Every move introduced her to new languages, traditions, and ways of life, planting the seeds for her passion for storytelling. This unique global lens became the foundation of her career, shaping her ability to find common ground with anyone, anywhere.
From Modeling to Producing: A Journey of Artistic Growth
Zara began her career in front of the camera, working as a model and actress. These early experiences helped her hone her craft and understand the dynamics of the entertainment industry. But Zara’s creative spirit pushed her further—she transitioned into producing and hosting television shows, collaborating with designers and brands to celebrate artistic expression. Her career is a testament to her drive to explore, innovate, and connect with her audience in meaningful ways.
Paris: A City That Changed Everything
Living in Paris marked a turning point in Zara’s life. It wasn’t just the city’s beauty or cultural richness—it was the fulfillment of her late mother’s dream for her. In Paris, Zara wrote a book as a ghostwriter and reported on major events like Paris Fashion Week for U.S. networks. These experiences cemented her reputation as a media personality with a global perspective, bridging cultural divides through her storytelling.
Behind the Scenes and Center Stage
Zara’s work often takes her to some of the world’s most prestigious events, from the Cannes Film Festival to New York for UN Climate Action Summit to the bustling streets of international cities. While she shines in front of the camera, her role as a producer—are equally significant. These roles have allowed her to immerse herself in the art of storytelling, crafting narratives that resonate on a global scale.
Exploring the World, One Story at a Time
Zara’s career has taken her across the globe, reporting from iconic locations like Morocco, Uzbekistan, Lebanon, Western Sahara Desert and Cambodia. Each destination offers its own unique stories, which she captures with sensitivity and depth. Her travels aren’t just about showcasing places; they’re about highlighting the people, cultures, and ideas that shape our world.
Bringing Stories to Life with City Lights and On Location with Zara
Now based in Canada, Zara is the producer and host of On Location with Zara for TELUS STORYHIVE and City Lights on Novus TV. These programs celebrate creativity, resilience, community and cultural exchange, introducing audiences to inspiring stories. Through her work, Zara educates and entertains, fostering empathy and understanding among her viewers.
Compassion in Action: Advocating for Animal Rights
Zara’s passion for storytelling extends to her advocacy for animal rights. As the proud mom of two fur babies, Loki the australian shepherd and Lily the ragdoll, she uses her platform to raise awareness about animal welfare. For Zara, empathy doesn’t stop at humans—it extends to all living beings, reflecting her deep commitment to kindness and compassion.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Zara
As 2025 approaches, Zara has her sights set on exciting new projects. She plans to produce a documentary series exploring how tradition and innovation intersect in different cultures. She also aims to expand her animal rights initiatives, partnering with organizations to promote ethical practices.
Zara Durrani is a trailblazer—a storyteller, advocate, and connector who uses her talents to inspire and unite. Whether through her media work or her activism, Zara reminds us of the power of compassion and creativity in building a better, more connected world.
Cover Photo credit: Cecilia Bilton, wearing LK Paris Couture
Beena Yusuf
Chief Editor
www.shemagazineusa.com
