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ZAHRA KHAN A Light That Fought to Shine Until the End

ZAHRA KHAN

There are people who, even in the face of immense pain, choose to radiate light. Zahra Khan was one of them.

Diagnosed with breast cancer in her early 30s, Zahra didn’t just fight for her life—she fought for awareness, for community, and for every woman who felt isolated in her diagnosis. Her journey was not just marked by chemotherapy and scans, but by courage, creativity, and the unwavering desire to turn her experience into something meaningful.

Zahra first came into the public eye through her brave documentation of her cancer journey on Instagram via her platform, @heybreastie—a space she created for honest conversations about healing, identity, and resilience. It quickly became a source of hope and solidarity for women across Pakistan and beyond.

But Zahra wasn’t just a survivor—she was a creator. Amidst her recovery, she launched @ifyoulikecheese, a small-batch cheesecake business that blended comfort, sweetness, and a slice of joy in every order. Her cheesecakes were more than dessert—they were a reminder that even during the hardest times, we can still create, dream, and connect with others.

In October 2023, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Zahra spoke candidly about her experience with stage II breast cancer—offering strength, vulnerability, and hope to women everywhere. She was in remission then, continuing to inspire others with her voice, her smile, and her signature kindness.

Sadly, life had other plans. Zahra was diagnosed again—this time with a more aggressive form of cancer. She fought with all the strength she had, but this chapter ended differently.

As we grieve her passing, we are reminded of a powerful truth: healing doesn’t always look the way we expect. Strength doesn’t always lead to survival. Sometimes, the bravest thing is simply to endure—with grace, with faith, and with love.

Zahra Khan may no longer be with us, but her legacy remains etched in every life she touched. In every message of support she sent. In every heartfelt post she wrote. In every bite of cheesecake someone enjoyed when they needed comfort the most.

Her journey is a lesson for all women: to advocate for their health, to speak their truth, to hold on to softness even in moments of pain. She showed us that beauty and strength can exist in the same breath—that even the most difficult stories can inspire hope.

May Zahra’s soul find peace, and may her family find strength in the outpouring of love surrounding her memory. She reminded us that even in the darkest hours, there is still purpose to be found, stories to be told, and people to be held a little tighter.

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un.
Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we return.

— Good Times Magazine

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In GT Article

Inside the World of AIEENA Reflections of Grace

Inside the World of AIEENA

In a city brimming with salons and fleeting trends, Aieena by Mastoorah Burki stands as a sanctuary of timeless beauty. Named after the Urdu word for “mirror,” Aieena is not just a place—it’s a philosophy. With her signature touch, Mastoorah Burki transforms more than faces; she transforms confidence, presence, and emotion. From her humble beginnings as a freelance artist in Toronto to becoming one of Lahore’s most sought-after bridal stylists, Mastoorah’s journey is a story of passion, precision, and pure artistry. In this exclusive Good Times interview, she opens up about her beginnings, her brides, and the beauty that lives beyond the mirror.

Tell us the story behind Aieena — how did it all begin?

It all began with a deep passion for beauty and a desire to help others feel confident in their own skin. I started as a freelance makeup artist in Toronto and later expanded into hairstyling after moving back to Pakistan. That’s when I opened a home-based makeup studio — with a dream of evolving into a full-service beauty salon and spa. That dream became Aieena. The name itself, which means ‘mirror’ in Urdu, reflects everything I believe in — how you see yourself, and how you want the world to see you.

What inspired you to become a makeup artist and open your own salon?

I’ve always been a creative person. The art of makeup, playing with color and enhancing features — it all fascinates me. I pursued learning the right techniques because I wanted to help people feel like the best version of themselves. Knowing I can deliver exactly what a client envisions gave me the confidence to open my own space.

How would you describe the signature “Aieena” look?

If you’re asking about the signature bridal look — it’s timeless and classic. While we tailor each look to the bride’s preferences, when given creative freedom, I always go for a traditional middle parting, a full bun adorned with flowers, flawless base, soft eye makeup, and defined lips. A sophisticated look that never goes out of style. Trends come and go, but your wedding photos last a lifetime — I want my brides to look just as beautiful 25 years from now.

What’s a typical day like at your salon in Gulberg?

We open at 10:30 AM and stay busy with appointments and walk-ins throughout the day. My manager oversees scheduling and staff assignments, while I personally handle signature haircuts and makeup services. Between client consultations, staff training, and ensuring every guest feels cared for, the day flows beautifully — and we wrap up by 7 PM. It’s busy, fulfilling, and I love every minute.

Which bridal look has been your all-time favorite to create — and why?

Honestly, I love all my bridal looks — as long as the bride walks out happy. Each one is special. But if I had to choose, I’d say I always lean toward the classic look. There’s just something timeless about it.

Who was your first bride — and do you remember how you felt?

Yes, vividly! My first desi bride was in my home studio. She was a Valima bride who wanted dewy skin, peach lips, bold eyes, and a messy bun. We were both so excited. Her joy was infectious, and she even wrote me a thank-you letter afterward. That moment confirmed that this was the right path for me.

What’s the most requested service at your salon?

Honestly, all our services are quite popular! From root touch-ups to balayage, precision cuts to relaxing massages, facials, and makeup — each department stays busy and thriving.

You offer hair, makeup, and skin — how do you ensure excellence across all?

You can’t run a successful salon without a well-trained team. I’ve personally trained in cut and color from L’Oréal London before opening the studio, so I oversee both the makeup and hair departments closely. As for skin services, we’ve hired experienced spa professionals to ensure the best.

What beauty trend do you think needs to go, and which are you loving right now?

The red nose trend definitely needs to go! I’m loving minimalist glam — cat eyes, natural skin, and bold brows are my current favorite.

Any beauty secrets you swear by for glowing skin?

Manual facials. I truly believe in the power of hands — facials done without machines are incredibly nourishing and therapeutic. The massage and relaxation also reduce stress, which reflects in your skin.

How do you stay calm and focused during bridal season chaos?

Experience is your best teacher. I don’t overbook, and I prioritize pre-booked clients over walk-ins — and I make sure to communicate that clearly. That keeps everything running smoothly.

Do you prefer classic bridal glam or bold experimental looks?

Classic will always be my first love — but I also enjoy the thrill of experimentation. It keeps me creatively alive.

If a bride only has one hour, what’s the one step you’d never skip?

Well, if a bride only has one hour, she’s definitely running late! But in all seriousness — I wouldn’t skip anything. Skin prep and a flawless base are essential, and so are the eyes and lips. I always recommend at least 1.5 hours for makeup and additional time for hair and setting.

Of all the brides you’ve worked with, has any story touched you deeply?

Yes. A bride I worked with this February left a lasting impression. She had lost her father years ago and was handling most of her wedding herself. She had a clear vision of how she wanted to look — and I poured my heart into making it come true. When her mother came to pick her up, she broke down in tears of joy. That moment still gives me goosebumps.

How do you stay current with international trends while staying true to Pakistani traditions?

It’s all about consistent training and staying curious. I attend workshops, learn new techniques, and blend them with our rich traditions to create something fresh yet rooted.

What advice would you give to young makeup artists trying to break into the beauty world?

Work hard. Learn the rules. Build your profile and don’t let setbacks shake your confidence. This field takes time — but your dedication will take you places.

Describe a moment when you felt truly proud of your work.

Honestly, it’s the little moments — when a client compliments our salon’s cleanliness, or when I see my team improving and glowing in their roles. Every satisfied client makes me proud.

Outside of work, what keeps you inspired and recharged?

Family, exercise, and travel. They keep me centered and creatively fulfilled.

What’s next for Aieena — any exciting plans or projects ahead?

There’s a lot brewing! But for now, I believe every new day brings opportunity — and I’m always ready for the next chapter.

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In GT Food

Boost Your Health This Summer With An Anti-Inflammatory Diet by Nuria Al-Ahmad

Diet by Nuria Al-Ahmad

While inflammation is our body’s natural response to infection and toxins, living in a constant state of inflammation is extremely harmful to our health. Inflammation is normally temporary and the inflammatory cells that are initially produced by our bodies to protect often result in pain, redness and swelling. This is usually short-lived but for some, chronic inflammation remains after the body’s initial response even in the absence of a threat. This is often signalled by fatigue, fever, depression, and weight gain. Luckily, the right food can act as the best medicine so if you find that your immune system is inadvertently causing you more harm than good, you can make thoughtful changes to your diet to quell unnecessary inflammation and get your body back to normal.

Crafting an anti-inflammatory diet is pretty straightforward. Y ou should decrease or completely eliminate inflammatory foods like refined carbs, trans fats and sugar and instead replace these with fruits, veggies, whole grains and lean protein. These foods are rich in antioxidants and play a major role in reducing inflammation by suppressing the body’ s pro-inflammatory processes to create a more harmonic immune response.

Anti-inflammatory diets are totally customisable depending on your personal taste but here are some 6 essential foods you should incorporate into your diet if you want to beat inflammation:

  1. Salmon:

Fish, especially salmon, is an anti-inflammatory superfood. It’ s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EP A and DHA, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body . Regular consumption of salmon can also help lower the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammation, like heart disease, arthritis, and even certain types of cancer .

  1. Green Tea:

If you’re a matcha lover , you’ll be pleased to learn that green tea is extremely beneficial for reducing inflammation. It contains powerful antioxidants called catechins, particularly which help fight excessive inflammation in the body . Green tea, especially a concentrated amount in the form of matcha powder, has various other health benefits too – it alleviates anxiety , promotes gut health and protects the brain from ageing.

  1. Berries:

Most people are surprised to learn that berries are not only a delicious fruit but also an integral part of the anti-inflammatory diet. Berries like raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries contain protective phytonutrients which help in balancing the body and eliminating oxidative stress (high levels of reactive oxygen species that can damage internal structures and trigger inflammation). Berries are also super easy to incorporate into your routine via snacking, smoothies, and salad toppings.

  1. Whole Grains:

In recent years, people have come to really appreciate the importance of fiber in the form of whole grains. Fiber is integral when it comes to improving gut health as it balances the permeability and pH of the gut. Fiber does this by reducing inflammation along with cholesterol and blood sugar . So don’t underestimate the power of whole grains like oats, quinoa and brown rice – they may not seem like much but they’re actually pretty powerful superfoods!

 

  1. Turmeric:

While a number of herbs and spices are great at lowering inflammation, turmeric reigns supreme. Y ou can thank polyphenol curcumin, the root’ s active compound, for its antioxidant effects. There are many simple ways to incorporate turmeric into your diet such as whipping up a golden-milk latte, shaving some turmeric over a salad, or simply incorporating the spice into your daily dishes for an instantaneous immune boost—and improved digestion. Aside from combatting inflammation, turmeric also inhibits the growth of cancer cells and helps enhance brain function while decreasing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Organic turmeric milk. The concept of healthy eating and diet.
  1. Extra-virgin Olive Oil:

Normally seed oils are a total no-go in anti-inflammatory diets but extra virgin olive oil is an exception. In fact, extra virgin olive oil may be the key to making you’re diet inflammation-free. This oil is a source of healthy fat and has been proven to reduce inflammatory markers, thanks (again) to its antioxidants, specifically oleocanthal. This is why olive oil is a staple of the Mediterranean diet, which is famously associated with a lowered incidence of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers.

Using food to manage inflammation provides a natural alternative to medications, reducing the risk of side effects and long-term dependency on pharmaceutical interventions. Focusing on an anti-inflammatory diet encourages a holistic approach to health, emphasizing the importance oflifestyle choices, such as regular physical activity and stress management, alongside a healthy diet.

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