As part of the vibrant Youth Film Fest at The NCA Triennale 2025, a compelling panel discussion titled “Passion vs Profession: Shooting ads without shooting the artist in you!” took place at the Shakir Ali Auditorium. The session brought together prominent voices from the fields of filmmaking, advertising, and performance, offering students a rare opportunity to gain firsthand insights into navigating creative careers.
The panel featured Saqib Malik, renowned filmmaker; Henna Bhatti, Creative Director at Ogilvy; and Hamza Jafri, model and actor. Moderated by Seerat Hazir, the discussion focused on realistic and actionable strategies for sustaining a career in ad filmmaking, one that nurtures artistic integrity while meeting professional demands.
Mrs. and Prof. Dr. Murtaza Jafri, Vice Chancellor NCA, attended the session, adding to the significance of the event. Their presence highlighted the institution’s ongoing commitment to encouraging meaningful dialogue that supports emerging voices in film, media, and creative industries.
The speakers shared thoughtful reflections on balancing commercial work with personal expression, managing industry expectations, and cultivating a creative identity without compromising financial stability. Their candid experiences resonated deeply with the young practitioners and students present.
