Mahvish Tabassum is a rising star in the broadcasting journalism industry, known for her dedication and continuous effort to excel in her field.
Mahvish began her career as an RJ at Samaa FM and transitioned into newscasting when she joined City 42. After earning her degree in Mass Communications, she received an offer from Sach TV in Islamabad. In 2015, she joined Capital TV as a newscaster and now hosts one of the channel’s flagship shows, Baybaak. Last month, the MediaSpring team had the opportunity to meet this talented news anchor in Lahore and ask her a few questions.
Q: Were you always attracted to journalism and media? When did you realize that a career in media was for you?
Mahvish: I decided I wanted to become a news anchor while I was in FSC. I participated in debates and developed an interest in broadcasting journalism. Perhaps it was influenced by my mother’s unfulfilled dream of becoming a news anchor and an RJ. I began my radio career at FM 107.4 during university and started my newscasting career at City 42 in my final year, even without any salary, purely for the practical experience.
Q: Can you tell us about your educational background and how it has helped in your career?
Mahvish: I have a BS Honors in Mass Communications from Punjab University. My education provided me with a solid foundation in the basics, which was incredibly helpful when I entered the field. I believe that a strong educational background is crucial for a successful start in this industry. At Punjab University, we received comprehensive academic and practical training in radio, report writing, and news editing.
Q: Tell us about your family. How supportive have they been of your career?
Mahvish: I am from Lahore and have lived here most of my life. We are five sisters and one brother. My family has been very supportive, especially my father, who has always stood by me. My mother, who dreamed of being an anchor, lived her dream through me, offering unwavering support.
Q: What part of your work do you find the most challenging, and which do you enjoy the most?
Mahvish: My current assignment, co-hosting a current affairs show with the veteran Khushnood Ali Khan, is the most challenging. Working with someone so experienced and particular about his work presents new challenges every day, but it also offers tremendous learning opportunities. As for enjoyment, I love reading news bulletins. It has become easier over time, and I thoroughly enjoy it.
In Pakistan mostly there is an issue of not treating male professionals and female professionals equally. i.e. in past a PTV news caster was not allowed to read a sad news since being a woman she would be unable to hold emotions, does that mind set of 1970s and 1980s still exist in our media? (Sorry about the long question)
Mahvish: NO, it does not exist at all. I personally sometimes feel that women are preferred tough channels give try to give equal space, therefore, there is no such atmosphere anymore as it was back in the 1970s or 1980s. For instance if I am on duty and there is something sad or terrible happened I will be doing that news bulletin because it’s my duty I will not be replaced. Yes if there is an anchor who is new and does not have much experience then for difficult assignments a senior one is preferred. You can say there is gender equality but there can be a debate over experience equality.
Who is your source of inspiration?
Mahvish: My ultimate source of inspiration is Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), then Quaid e Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal. If you are looking for a non-textbook answer then recently Muniba Mazari has been my source of inspiration lately.
Q: How do you cope with the emotional impact of delivering bad news?
Mahvish: As professionals, we have to manage our emotions while on air. For example, during the earthquake in October last year, I was reading the news live and couldn’t contact my family, which was very distressing. Generally, I try to leave the emotional burden at the newsroom and enjoy my time off.
Q: How important is healthy rivalry among news anchors?
Mahvish: Healthy competition is crucial as it drives us to improve. We compete with both male and female colleagues, which enriches our skills and knowledge. However, it’s important to respect our seniors and maintain a professional attitude.
Q: What are your favorite activities outside of work?
Mahvish: I enjoy hanging out with friends, although after a hectic day, I often prefer relaxing alone in my room.
Q: Do you like reading books? If so, what types?
Mahvish: I enjoy reading columns in newspapers, especially by Javed Chaudhry and Hassan Nisar. I also read books occasionally; currently, I am reading “Udaas Naslain.” As a student, I read a lot of novels, particularly those by Umera Ahmed.
Q: How important is research and personal study for a news anchor?
Mahvish: Very important! Having knowledge and being well-researched boosts confidence and enhances on-screen performance. It transforms simple questions and debates into impactful discussions.
Q: Have you ever considered acting or modeling?
Mahvish: I have received offers for modeling and acting, but I always refuse. My goal is to remain focused on news and current affairs, not entertainment.
Q: Describe your personal style in three words.
Mahvish: Confident, moody, and garrulous.
Q: Your favorite film and song?
Mahvish: I rarely watch films, but I really liked Waar. My all-time favorite song is “Afreen” by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Generally, I prefer sad songs.
Q: How has social media impacted your profession?
Mahvish: Social media has transformed news consumption and interaction. It keeps us up-to-date and connected with our audience. For instance, this interview was arranged via Twitter. Social media and TV news complement each other well.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring journalists and news anchors?
Mahvish: Have a lot of passion and be ready to face competition head-on. The media field is tough, and earnings start later, so passion and confidence are essential.
Q: What is the most memorable news you’ve read as a news anchor?
Mahvish: The most memorable news is always when Pakistan wins a match. The most traumatic was reading about the APS attack, which brought me to tears on air.
Q: What are your future plans?
Mahvish: To continue learning and gaining experience. Eventually, I hope to host a current affairs program like Mahrukh Qureshi does for Capital TV.
Q: Any message for your fans?
Mahvish: Keep watching, keep listening, and keep giving your feedback.
Mehwish is my favriout & very pretty & telented news anchor