by Exploring the World One Character at a Time with Amber Zulfiqar
In this captivating interview, we have the pleasure of speaking with Amber Zulfiqar, a dynamic and adventurous voice-over artist from Pakistan who has seamlessly blended her professional pursuits with her insatiable passion for travel. Amber’s journeys have taken her from the bustling streets of Karachi to the serene landscapes of Shimshal Valley, offering her a rich tapestry of experiences and stories that inspire her work and life philosophy. With a zest for life and an unquenchable thirst for adventure, she has carved out a niche for herself both in the professional realm and on the open road. Her travels are deeply rooted in understanding and experiencing local cultures and traditions, from her fascination with mountains and wildlife to her profound encounters with various ethnic communities. Amber’s stories are a testament to her spirit of exploration and commitment to personal growth. In this interview, she shares her unique insights and anecdotes, revealing how she navigates the challenges of traveling alone, embraces diverse cultures, and manifests her dreams into reality, taking us on a journey through her most memorable travel experiences and the inspirations that drive her to keep exploring the world, one voice-over project at a time.
Thank you for allowing me to interview you
Ans.) Thank you for inviting me over for lunch and this interview
If you could teleport to any place in the world right now, where would you go and why?
Ans.) I am not going to pinpoint a location exactly but I can picture the landscape, it should be a mountainous region with lots of scenery and wildlife around a place where I should be able to spend my night under the sky and I could camp around and feel the breeze. I am an outdoor person totally.
If you could be the voice of any fictional character (from any universe) for a day, who would you choose and why?
Ans.) Aah, that Wonder Woman, she is totally like me, she is Amazonian, fierce, independent absolutely fiery and that represents my characteristics in a lot of ways so I would want to be her voice. But why just one, I want to be the voice of Rapunzel in Tangled. She was isolated yet yearned to know about the world. By the way, let me share a secret, I not only learned a lot from this movie as a dubbing artist but also learned a few new English words.
What’s the first thing you do when you arrive in a new city or country?
Ans.) As soon as I arrive in a new city or a country, I have to take the metro or the public transport available. Because for me that is the best way to understand how is the common people and the masses of that place. So straight from the Airport to my booked hotel I take any means of public transport. Also, I am a budget traveler. Saying that at times I do travel luxury travel as well keeping in mind safety concerns, etc., but to be honest I am more of a person who travels to learn about the sociology of that region, how the masses live, and when you travel through local transportation you learn a lot about that country or region. For example, when I visited Shimshal Valley, everybody suggested that I should get a jeep booked for going to Shimshal but I insisted upon finding out the local bus station. After all the local people would be traveling too right not everyone could afford that Rs. 5000 jeep, so I found out about a tardy bus station that was more like a hut. I went there and waited for my bus to Shimshal Valley. People were staring at me saying who is this this girl sitting here, that this girl is neither a foreigner nor a local but sitting here to travel on a local bus after paying 500 bucks for a seat and travel to Shimshal. They were confused, they thought probably a Sri Lankan or an Indonesian definitely not a local, but when I told them that I am from Karachi they would not believe me because we as locals are more f travelers and not tourists who yearn for luxury and comfort but I traveled in that bus and doing that I made so many friends that last still, I am still friends with them and we are like family, I can walk into their homes freely like a housemate.
If you had to choose one voice-over character to be your travel companion, who would it be and what adventures would you embark on together?
Ans.) I am not sure, but there is one character I dubbed for. It is a Spanish project and the character I dubbed in it is Sarah, and I really like Sarah’s character because this woman is just like me and relatable in so many ways. She is the only child and ambitious in so many ways. She dreams, she wants to empower women, she wants to travel, and do good things and she lived on an Avocado farm. I would love to be her travel companion. Besides, I love Spanish people so that is also one more bias (hahaha). As for the adventures, Spain brings it on baby, whatever Spain has to offer, the matadors, la Tomatina, water sports, and stuff like that. The Girl Power Outdoor Trip!
What’s the most unusual food you’ve tried on your travels, and would you eat it again?
Ans.) I’ve seen a lot of unusual foods being prepared, to name one I saw a frog porridge being made, but I did not try that, that was in Bukit Bintang Malaysia, but I haven’t tried any unusual food like that but yes tried some unusual dishes up north like Mulida which a flour-based lumpy kind of porridge and is made with lots of apricot oil and sour milk, it is weird for our taste standards but I loved it for some reasons, I had it two-three times and every time I feel in love with it more.
If you had a travel-themed superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?
Ans.) I would want to transport myself in any time and era I want to. I love Outlanders because she could time travel anywhere.
What’s the funniest or most bizarre thing that has happened to you while recording a voice-over?
Ans.) Haha, you know sometimes burps just sneak up on you, right? It happens to me because I talk super fast all the time. Fun fact: I used to stutter and stammer when I was a kid and kept it up until my mid-twenties. But hey, good news – it magically disappeared and now I can talk without any hiccups, thank goodness! Also, I’m a kinetically visual person, so when I speak, I can literally see the words I’m saying in my head. And you know what’s helped me chill out and speak smoothly? Yoga and meditation. Trust me, they work wonders!
If you had to create a travel guide based on your favorite movie or TV show, what would it be and what locations would it feature?
Ans.) I’m not really big on TV, but I totally fell for Outlanders. I’m head over heels for Scotland too, I got to go there someday. I’m thinking of making a travel show all about Scotland. When I was in Turkey and exploring the countryside, I was amazed by the wide-open fields. There’s something about our Karakoram range that just can’t be beat. Whether it’s Scotland, Scandinavia from watching Vikings, or even Mongolia for some horseback riding. I want my show to be all about mountains and epic adventures. Let’s make it happen!
What inspired you to start solo traveling, especially as a woman in Pakistan?
Ans.) I kind of just thought, “Enough is enough, I’m going to spend all my money on myself and travel the heck out of this world!” giggles It was like a personal challenge, you know? Traveling runs in the family; my dad was a big explorer back in the day. But my mom? Total homebody. Dad loved going on adventures, like getting stuck as a prisoner in Dhaka back in ’71. now that’s a story! And when he went to Paris, he rented a car and went off the beaten path, exploring France like a boss. I’ve always been curious about different cultures, you know? Travel is the best teacher, man. If Columbus hadn’t traveled, he wouldn’t have discovered America, right? I feel like a big bird flying high, but I always come back to my own nest. There’s nothing like the freedom of exploring the world. In big cities like Karachi, parents can be pretty over-protective and don’t always let their kids spread their wings. They should give them that initial push, at least. I traveled out of curiosity; I have a penchant for finding out about new cultures and different people.
Can you share some of the most memorable experiences you’ve had during your travels?
Ans.) My travel luck is bananas! Every trip I take feels completely manifested. Remember that commercial with the climber scaling Trango Towers in Gilgit-Baltistan? Saw it in a dream as a kid, and it just wouldn’t leave my head. Had to do it eventually, right? Fast forward to reading “The Forty Rules of Love,” and boom! I’m picturing myself at Mevlana Rumi’s shrine in Konya. That was my vision board, playing out right there in my mind. Back then, a bus ticket to Lahore felt impossible, let alone a plane to Turkey. But guess what? Six months later, I’m standing in the same courtyard I dreamt of, watching the whirling dervishes in action. Talk about manifesting your dreams!
Same story with Shimshal Valley. Reading “Shimshal Bemisaal” about the legendary Tarar Sahab painted this wild picture, right? This terrifying cliff is called “Shaitan ki Ankh” (Devil’s Eye) where rocks fall, but then you enter Shimshal, and there’s an explosion of green and yellow flowers everywhere. Two years later, I wasn’t just visiting Shimshal once, but twice, and it was exactly like the book described! It’s like I’m living in a movie, I swear. Wherever I dream of going, somehow, it just happens.
Shrines weren’t really my thing, but then one day, the words just flew out: “I want to go to Data Darbar and Sehwan Sharif.” Low and behold, my friend calls from the Sindh Secretariat, planning a trip to Sehwan, and invites me along. Tears pricked my eyes – “Yes, please!” See, that’s how the universe works, with a little divine nudge from a phone call, of course! You know how most people pick destinations from fancy brochures? Not me! I’m more like a mystical nomad, following whispers that lead me on epic adventures. It’s like my soul has a magic GPS for incredible places. I don’t pick destinations; they pick me, and somehow, even arrange themselves for me.
What challenges have you faced while traveling alone, and how have you overcome them?
Ans.) See, Pakistan’s amazing, but safety comes first, no matter what anyone says. Thankfully, I haven’t had any bad experiences (knock on wood!), but being smart is key. I’ve been traveling around Pakistan since 2015, and trust me, I learned a thing or two before the lockdowns.
Here’s the thing: You have to be street-smart. Remember how I told you about making local friends on social media? Couchsurfing is a great option too. Having the local police number handy is a must, but talking to people is how you really connect. You got to trust your gut a little, but hey, most people I met were awesome!
Speaking of awesome, there’s this gem dealer in Skardu named Sarbaz Bhai. The sweetest guy! He even lets me run his shop, “Baltistan Gemstone,” sometimes. Makes me laugh every time tourists call me “jewelry girl.”
Okay, okay, there can be a few bumps. Some tourists might be a little surprised to see a girl selling gems. But listen, the important stuff is letting your family know where you are, having the local police number on speed dial, and maybe the bus and private transport numbers too. Pakistan’s beautiful, but a little preparation goes a long way, especially for solo travelers. Dress modestly, trust your instincts, and remember, there’s always a little bit of “what will be, will be” involved. But if something feels fishy, get out of there!
How do you ensure your safety while traveling solo?
Ans.) Traveling solo in Pakistan or anywhere in the world? No worries! Just pack your sense of adventure and a sprinkle of street smarts. You’re basically James Bond, but instead of fancy gadgets, you’ve got cultural know-how. Do a bit of homework on local customs and dress codes – think comfy clothes that are cozier sweater than party dress.
Once you’re there, trust your gut. If you catch weird vibes, your politeness is your superpower – just excuse yourself faster than you can say “chai break” and find a friendlier spot. Let tech be your travel buddy too – keep someone back home in the loop with your plans and regular updates, like sending digital postcards!
I also keep a Taser, a nifty non-lethal self-defense gadget, which can give you enough time to escape or call for help if needed. Always stick to an itinerary, keep your money and cards safe, and avoid hopping hotels too frequently. But if you do, make sure someone back home knows.
Here’s the real secret: Pakistanis are famously hospitable. Be a respectful guest, keep an open mind, and you’ll have unforgettable experiences. Think magic carpet rides, not minefields! Just remember, some topics like politics and religion are best left alone – stick to fun stuff like the best mango lassi recipe. With a bit of planning and a dash of cultural awareness, your solo trip to Pakistan will be epic!
Have you encountered any cultural barriers during your travels? If so, how did you handle them?
Ans.) Not really. Whenever there’s a language barrier, Google Translate comes to the rescue. Plus, I make it a habit to learn a few useful local words and phrases as soon as I arrive. I’m pretty good at picking up languages, which definitely helps.
Cultural and traditional barriers? I’m all about embracing them. I adapt to what the locals are doing and show respect for their customs. As a tourist, it’s important to adapt to the local culture and traditions, even if you don’t agree with everything. You don’t have to participate, but standing aside and watching respectfully is key.
I’ve always been curious about the diversity in the world. We’re all born into a certain mold, but not everyone fits that mold. Understanding and respecting that everyone is unique is crucial. Each culture has its own traditions, and it’s our duty to respect them.
For instance, I’ve seen tourists from different parts of Pakistan trying to preach their culture to the Kalasha people in Chitral. That’s not our place. The Kalasha is an ancient and unique part of our culture, and we should preserve and respect their traditions. Diversity is a blessing, and we should be grateful for it, not destroy it.
One of the concepts I love from the Kalasha culture is their celebration of death. It’s a very philosophical view – they believe the soul is free and the body is just a temporary vessel. Life on earth is seen as a trial, not a paradise. The Quran also mentions that this world is temporary, like the blink of an eye. The Kalasha celebrates the liberation of the soul after death, which is a beautiful concept of salvation.
What is the one place you would recommend to other solo female travelers in Pakistan?
Ans.) Shimshal is amazing, but getting there can be a bit of an adventure. The people are incredibly nice, which really adds to the experience. I’ve also traveled to Skardu, and while all the places are stunning, it’s really the people that make the vibe.
Shimshal and Upper Hunza have a wonderful, positive, open, educated, and friendly atmosphere. They hold onto their original culture while being super welcoming to tourists. Shimshal is nestled among the mountains, with just one way in and out, so everyone knows everyone, making it really safe and sound. I absolutely love Shimshal!
During your travels, which ethnic group or community has left the most lasting impression on you and why?
Ans.) My heart was truly touched by the Ismaili community in Gilgit-Baltistan. Their sense of unity and togetherness is something I’ve never witnessed before. They treat everyone as equals, men and women alike. Unlike many mosques in Pakistan where women have limited prayer spaces, Ismaili Jamat Khaanas have dedicated areas for women to worship freely. It’s a heartwarming sight to see people of all ages, from young children to elderly grandmothers, heading to the Jamat Khana for prayer. The elderly women, walking hand-in-hand, resemble adorable dolls, their devotion and serenity radiating through the air.
Their unique concept of ‘Nandi’ particularly impressed me. In essence, Nandi is a community pantry where those in need can anonymously pick up food items donated by those with more. This system ensures that no one goes hungry while upholding everyone’s self-respect. It’s a testament to the community’s unwavering commitment to helping one another. The idea that no one should sleep hungry is truly remarkable!
The Ismaili community’s values of unity, compassion, and selflessness are an inspiration to us all. Their way of life serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that even in a world filled with challenges, kindness and empathy can prevail.
Have you had any profound spiritual encounters during your travels? If so, how did they impact your perspective on life?
Ans.) Nestled near the Wakhan border in Chipursan, the Baba Ghundi Festival is a vibrant celebration of tradition and culture. I had the opportunity to experience this unique event, where time seems to stand still, and ancient customs are brought to life.
Imagine a scene filled with Sufi night performances, exhilarating Buzkashi competitions, where horse-mounted players battle for goat carcass supremacy, and thrilling polo matches. Traditional sword dances, Yak Safaris, and the soulful melodies of Wakhi folk music complete the captivating spectacle.
As I immersed myself in this cultural extravaganza, the weather took an unexpected turn, forcing me to seek shelter at the Baba Ghundi shrine. Little did I know that divine intervention was about to unfold.
Stranded in Antalya, empty pockets, and a looming return journey, I faced a daunting predicament. Just when despair threatened to engulf me, a beacon of hope emerged in the form of an Afghan boy. With a kind gesture, he offered me a lift in his car, already occupied by two Iranian women.
The boy explained that the women had faced a similar situation, and he was determined to ensure their safe return. With a heart full of gratitude, we settled into the car, an unlikely trio of an Afghan, two Iranian, and a Pakistani, united by a shared sense of humanity.
As we cruised through the streets, the absurdity of the situation struck me – a testament to the power of human connection that transcends borders and cultures. Amidst the hustle and bustle of the world, we found solace and support in each other’s company.
The boy’s act of kindness extended beyond the car ride, as he dropped each of us at our respective hotels. This unexpected encounter left an indelible mark on my soul, a reminder that miracles can happen in the most ordinary moments.
While not a spiritual experience in the traditional sense, this incident epitomizes the transformative power of human kindness. It’s a testament to the fact that compassion and empathy can bridge divides, fostering understanding and connection across cultures.
What are some of the ways you’ve seen different cultures celebrate significant life events, such as weddings or festivals?
Ans.) Imagine a spring festival where the women call the shots! That’s exactly what Chillam Joshi, celebrated by the Kalasha people, is all about. It’s a vibrant celebration of spring filled with dancing, feasting, and something truly unique – a girl power twist on finding love!
Unlike most cultures, at Chillam Joshi, the women take center stage. They dress up in their most stunning traditional outfits, adorned with colorful jewelry, and basically put out a giant “single and ready to mingle” vibe. The men, well, they better be on their best behavior! It’s a chance for them to impress the ladies with their dance moves, strength, and maybe even some poetry (who knows, maybe they serenade them with a love song played on a traditional flute?).
So, forget the waiting around for Prince Charming. At Chillam Joshi, the women are in charge, and it’s a celebration of love, spring, and strong, independent women – all rolled into one amazing festival!
How do you balance your work as a voice-over artist with your passion for traveling?
Ans.) Balancing work and life can be a tricky tightrope walk, especially when your work is all about travel and voiceovers. I’ve been navigating this balancing act since 2012 when I first started working in advertising. In 2015, I decided to take a leap of faith and quit my job to satiate my wanderlust.
Voiceover work seemed like the perfect fit for my travel-loving soul. I could record from the comfort of my own home, giving me the freedom to explore new destinations whenever the opportunity arose. Dubbing, however, was a different story. It required me to be physically present in a studio, which often meant putting my travel plans on hold.
I dabbled in dubbing in 2020, taking on a few light projects to supplement my income. This allowed me to maintain a healthy balance between work and travel. However, as I delved deeper into the world of dubbing, I realized that it demanded more time and commitment than I could spare while still pursuing my travel dreams.
In January 2023, I made a conscious decision to take dubbing more seriously, embracing it as a full-fledged career. This shift came with a bittersweet realization: my travel days were about to take a backseat.
While my work-life balance has undoubtedly been affected, I’ve found new rewards in my professional growth. The challenge of dubbing has pushed me to refine my skills and expand my repertoire. I’ve also had the opportunity to collaborate with talented individuals from around the globe.
Of course, I haven’t completely given up on travel. I’m determined to find a way to incorporate it into my life again, perhaps in shorter bursts or during breaks between projects. For now, my priorities have shifted, and I’m fully embracing this new chapter in my career.
What have you learned about yourself through solo travel?
Ans.) I’ve often heard that I have an uncanny ability to connect with people, to make them feel comfortable and at ease. Some might even say that I have an aura of positivity, a non-judgmental presence that draws people in. And while I’m not sure if that’s entirely true, I do believe that our energy, our vibe, has a powerful impact on the experiences we attract.
Throughout my travels, I’ve noticed a recurring pattern: strangers approach me, sharing their stories, their hopes, and their fears, even if they’ve never met me before. It’s as if they sense a safe space, a place where they can be themselves without fear of judgment.
I’ve come to realize that this ability to connect with others stems from my own approach to life. I’ve learned to trust nature’s flow, to let go of stress and anxiety, and to embrace life’s realities, both good and bad. I’ve also learned to accept people for who they are, to see the beauty and uniqueness in each individual.
This newfound acceptance has not only enriched my personal relationships but also fueled my adventurous spirit. I’m no longer afraid of exploring new places, of immersing myself in different cultures, and of stepping outside my comfort zone. I’ve learned that the world is full of incredible experiences, waiting to be discovered by those who are open to them.
Can you share a story where solo traveling positively impacted your personal or professional life?
Ans.) I’ve picked up so many languages from the locals during my travels. I’ve even done voiceovers in Baluchi and Pashto! In fact, I played a Dutch lady in a drama and spoke Dutch, even though I didn’t know a lick of it. I think traveling and watching how people talk and their unique styles have really helped me adapt to different accents and tones for dubbing and voiceovers. I don’t have any wild stories to share, but this overall experience has been pretty cool.
How did you get started in the voice-over industry?
Ans.) Back in my advertising days, dreaming about voiceovers while managing those Unilever accounts! Seeing all those fancy Pond’s commercials, I knew – that’s the voice I wanted! Fast forward to quitting my job and chasing my passions. Someone suggested meeting Absar Sahib, a recording big shot. So, I head to his studio, do a voice sample… and crickets. Not exactly the “welcome aboard” I was hoping for.
But hey, the journey continues! I was also into vlogging back then. Let’s just say my Skardu travel vlog was, well, a bit rough around the edges. But the voiceover? Nailed it! People loved my voice, said it sounded like a radio announcer. Talk about a surprise!
Then, a friend in Lahore calls with a crazy request – a voiceover for a Sunsilk commercial, ASAP! No pressure, right? I figured, “Why not?” And guess what? They loved it! That was 2018, and since then, it’s been voiceover jobs galore. Who knew a Pond’s ad dream would turn into a full-blown career? Life is full of surprises!
What is the most challenging aspect of dubbing characters from Turkish plays into Urdu?
Ans.) Nothing is really difficult; we just have to nail the lip sync so the words match the mouth and lips movements. Spanish is a breeze since it’s close to Urdu. Turkish can be a bit tricky to sync, but it’s manageable. Plus, you have to match the actor’s performance and emotions. If there’s a crying scene, you have to feel it and maybe even cry a bit to convey the right emotion so your voice sounds like it’s really theirs.
I absolutely love dubbing. I dubbed a drama called Masoomlar where I voiced a schizophrenic lady who screamed at the top of her lungs. I had to scream along with her, even while fasting, and it felt like my lungs were about to explode. I had to really get into her anger to make it convincing.
Can you describe your process for preparing to voice a character?
Ans.) Nailing a dub doesn’t require hours of memorization or poring over scripts. For me, it’s all about a single, intense character download. I give the actor on screen my full attention, soaking up their every twitch and tear. It’s like I’m absorbing their entire vibe – the happiness, the sadness, the whole emotional shebang! By the time I’m done, I practically am the character, ready to unleash their voice through mine. Talk about method acting for the vocal cords!
Which character that you’ve dubbed is your favorite and why?
Ans.) In this one drama Paya e Takht Sultan Abdul Hamid, I got to play two totally different characters – talk about double duty! One was Bidar Sultan, the Sultan’s wife. But the real firecracker of a role was Madam Blavatsky. Now, this lady was a whole other story!
Imagine a world-traveling mystic straight out of the Byzantine Empire. She’s a Christian with a cunning streak a mile wide, plotting the downfall of the Ottoman Empire. And let’s not forget, she’s a formidable older woman who gets things done! Dubbing her was an absolute blast.
I mean, come on – cunning, smart, ambitious, and independent? What’s not to love? Madam Blavatsky is definitely my favorite character to date. Now, Bidar Sultan, on the other hand, was a whole different story. Sweet and gentle, maybe a bit on the slow side. Complete opposites, of these two! But that’s the beauty of dubbing, right? You get to transform yourself, to breathe life into characters of all shapes and sizes.
How do you maintain vocal health, given the demands of your profession?
Ans.) Haha, funny you should mention! My voice has definitely gotten a bit lower over the years – more like a bass machine now than a high-pitched squeak! Truth be told, I don’t really do any fancy vocal exercises. My secret weapon? Ginger tea and coffee – champions of the hoarse voice!
Okay, maybe there’s one tiny habit I can’t deny. Gargling before bed is a must, followed by a quick little throat massage and some gentle exercises. But that’s about it! Guess my vocal cords are just naturally awesome (wink wink).
What skills do you believe are essential for a successful voice-over artist?
Ans.) Sure, a sweet voice can take you places, but in the world of voiceover, it’s about so much more than just sounding good. A sprinkle of grace and a whole lot of knowledge are the secret ingredients!
You can’t be a voiceover whiz by just reading words off a page. Nope, you got to be in the know! Understanding the subject matter, even if it’s not required for every project, adds depth and makes your delivery way more powerful.
For me, reading straight from a script is a big no-no. I got to tinker with it a bit, make it my own, you know? Grasping the whole scene, the context – that’s key! Then comes the magic of speaking itself. Mumbling your way through a script about spicy peppers won’t exactly set the world on fire (just like a jalapeno that’s not pronounced right!).
The key is to understand, to connect with the content, and to pick projects that resonate with you. Oh, and flawless pronunciation? That’s a non-negotiable! No room for pronunciation faux pas here!
So, if you’re thinking about diving into the world of voiceover, remember – it’s more than just having a pretty voice. It’s about knowledge, connection, and making those words come alive!
Looking back on your journey, what has been the most rewarding part of being both a traveler and a voice-over artist?
Ans.) Picking a favorite between traveling the world and being a voiceover artist? That’s a tough one – you got me there! Here’s the thing, both experiences are incredible in their own way.
Traveling fills me with stories – a million and one adventure waiting to be shared. Maybe one day, I’ll picture myself nestled in a cozy mountain cottage, crackling fire casting warm shadows, regaling visitors with tales of my journeys. Travel, it seems, has a way of turning you into a natural-born storyteller, weaving tales that captivate and inspire.
On the other hand, voiceover artistry lets me connect with people on a massive scale. My voice travels far and wide, reaching audiences I never could have imagined. It’s a humbling thought, knowing the potential impact my voice can have. Who knows, maybe my words are sparking curiosity, igniting a travel bug in someone else’s heart!
So, the most rewarding part? Honestly, it’s a beautiful blend of both. The stories I gather on the road fuel my voiceover work, and the connections I make through voiceover fuel my wanderlust. It’s a win-win, wouldn’t you say?
How do you see the future of voice-over work evolving, especially with the rise of international content like Turkish dramas?
Ans.) The future of voiceover work? Well, let’s just say things could get a little stagnant if we don’t keep things moving! The good news is, that I’m hearing whispers of new dubbing and voiceover institutes popping up – places for aspiring voice talents to hone their craft. Hallelujah for that!
We need to expand the avenues for voiceover work, not just the number of jobs, but also the way we see the profession itself. It shouldn’t be just a side hustle; it deserves recognition as a proper career path. Imagine award shows with categories dedicated to voiceover artists – now that’s what I’m talking about! A little appreciation goes a long way, right?
With the rise of international content, like those steamy Turkish dramas, the voiceover world is bound to explode. Think about it – all these amazing stories, just waiting to be translated and brought to life for new audiences. It’s a global voiceover party, and everyone’s invited!
New technology might also play a big role. Artificial intelligence and fancy algorithms might be thrown into the mix, but I don’t see them replacing the human touch. There’s a magic to storytelling, an emotional connection that machines just can’t replicate (yet!). So, voiceover artists of the world, fear not! The future is bright, and it’s full of exciting possibilities. Let’s keep learning, keep evolving, and keep those voices soaring!
What upcoming projects or travels are you most excited about, and what can your fans look forward to?
Ans.) Can’t spill the beans on my voiceover projects (got to keep those confidentiality clauses tight!), but let’s just say there’s some seriously cool Spanish content in the works. On the drama front, Turkish shows are keeping me busy – snagged the role of Gonce Hatun in the super-popular Kurulus Osman!
Now, when it comes to traveling, my wanderlust is fixated on one epic adventure: a trek to Karambar Lake in Pakistan. It’s been on my mind forever, and I’m hoping to make it happen soon. Fingers crossed for an amazing adventure – stay tuned for updates!
Finally, what message would you like to share with our readers about following their passions and dreams?
Ans.) Here’s a message from me, loud and clear: Don’t overthink it, just go for it! You only get one wild and crazy ride on this planet, so don’t waste a minute.
Remember that time everyone else was playing with dolls and stuffed animals? Me? I was busy balancing my dad’s ledgers, pretending to be a high-powered accountant. Or maybe I was schooling the neighborhood kids as their very own pint-sized teacher. Even food critiquing was part of my childhood repertoire, mimicking all those fancy chefs on TV.
Fast forward, and guess what? Finance degree in hand, I found myself interning at a bank. Then, I spent three years lighting up little minds as a teacher at City School. Advertising came next, turning me into a master negotiator and a total conversation pro (plus, a major confidence booster!). All along, though, the foodie flame was flickering. I started a food vlog on the side, my own little corner of the internet to rave about culinary delights. Restaurants started inviting me to taste their latest creations and share my reviews – pretty cool, right?
But then, something funny happened. Once everyone jumped on the food vlogging bandwagon, it lost its spark for me. Travel vlogging? Been there, done that (and documented the heck out of it!). Travel bug still buzzing? Absolutely! And guess what my latest adventure is? Becoming a voiceover artist! Talk about a plot twist, right?
The point is, life is full of surprises, full of chances to explore your passions. Don’t be afraid to switch gears, to chase new dreams. Want to turn your hobby into your career? Do it! Embrace the journey, the stumbles, and the triumphs. Because let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the happiness that comes from following your heart. So, what are you waiting for? The world is your oyster (and hey, maybe I’ll even narrate your amazing journey someday!).
Thank you, Amber, for this wonderful conversation, it was a pleasure meeting you.
Ans.) Aw, you’re too kind! Thank you for the lovely chat. It’s been an absolute blast getting to know you. Who knows, maybe our paths will cross again someday! Until then, happy travels, delicious food adventures, and voiceover triumphs! And hey, if you ever need someone to listen to more “blabbering” you know where to find me! 😉
As our interview draws to a close, it’s clear that Amber Zulfiqar embodies the spirit of adventure and the power of storytelling. Her passion for travel and dedication to her craft as a voice-over artist shines through every anecdote and insight she shares. Amber’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of exploration, resilience, and cultural appreciation. We thank Amber for sharing her remarkable experiences and wisdom with us, leaving us inspired to pursue our own adventures and embrace the world with open hearts and minds. Safe travels, Amber, and may your voice continue to echo across new horizons.
If you’re interested in Amber’s work, you can check out her Instagram page and YouTube channel by clicking the links below.