My fascination with existentialism has shaped my perspective, revealing the intricate intelligence of an ant, the delicate structure of a leaf, and the patterns of the cosmos. Growing up as a Baloch woman in a traditional Pakistani society, I often sought refuge on my rooftop, sipping chai while contemplating the world around me. In a society that felt rigid and unyielding, I created my inner landscapes, crafting stories that reflected my experiences and aspirations.
From a young age, I captured the essence of these stories through the lens of a VHS camera, a gift from my father at the age of nine. The narratives I developed often centered on women—the unsung heroes of my imagination. Every soccer game I played became a rebellion against the misogyny that surrounded me, each victory a testament to resilience. Inspired by my parents, I dedicated myself to uplifting others, producing short films that spotlight women in sports and men from underprivileged communities.
By merging my passions for soccer and filmmaking, I found a platform to amplify voices often silenced. I embraced my identity as an unmarried, single Pakistani Baloch woman and an athlete, challenging societal expectations at every turn. I am a minority and a rebel, unafraid to confront authority.
I aim to awaken our collective consciousness through my films, sparking conversations that inspire change. My work reflects glimpses of my reality, a lens through which I hope to ignite a dialogue about empowerment, resilience, and the power of storytelling.
Artist Bio
Nina Zehri is a director, editor, and cinematographer from Pakistan, dedicated to amplifying women's voices and bringing their stories to the forefront. As a former national soccer player, her recent film "Beep Test" explores the challenges faced by aging athletes. This work has been selected for South Asia’s only Oscar-qualifying film festival, the Tasveer Film Festival. Nina’s art delves into the inner moral dilemmas we all face—the choices we make and their consequences.