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Basir Mahmood (b 1985, Lahore) graduated in 2010 from Beaconhouse National University with a
distinction. His interest in short films has won him various awards in the category of Best Director
and Writer. "Gheera Chaasma", a short film, was nominated at the Zabist Film Festival in Karachi
which was written, directed and produced by Mahmood. His one minute short film ‘Dot in the line’
was short listed in the Filminute Film Festival in 2011. Mahmood is the recipient of Akademie Schloss
Solitude fellowship for the year 2011-2012 in Stuttgart, Germany.
He will represent Pakistan at the Asia Pacific Triennial 2012 (APT 7) at Queensland Art Gallery in
Brisbane, Australia and showing his video at the launch of Broad Museum launch at Michigan State
University in April 2012. Mahmood is a part of III Moscow International Biennale for Young Art,
2012.
Besides being part of various private collections, Mahmood’s video works were recently acquired by
the Queensland Art Gallery Collection in Brisbane, Australia.
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Basir Mahmood
BNU Alumnus: Graduate from School of Visual Arts and Design, 2010
Artist
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“I came to BNU seeking education in liberal arts. The minute I entered the place, I knew I wanted to study there.
Although most of my academic life revolved around SMC, I had the opportunity to take different electives from school which proved to be a fantastic experience, in terms of learning and broadening my horizons. I will always look back fondly at the times spent working towards taking out the BNU Gazette – definitely the highlight of my BNU experience. The faculty is friendly and cooperative, and you get the feeling of belonging to a large, extended family. I can confidently say that SMC at BNU is a well-rounded mix of everything one needs to know at this stage in life and most importantly, it’s a fun ride!"
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Mariam Shah
BNU Alumnus: MA Mass Communication, 2007
Associate Editor Blue Chip magazine, Islamabad
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“Before joining the School of Media and Mass Communication (SMC) at BNU, I had no serious career plans in this field and just came with a wish to have a MA degree. After I joined I realized my potential and explored the talent I would not have known about if I had not joined the school. Upon getting my MA degree I launched my own TV channel named Koh-e-Noor I implemented the theories and techniques I was taught.
My teachers, especially Dr. Mehdi Hasan and Dr. Taimur-ul-Hassan, supported and encouraged me not only in my academic career but also showed me the right path towards professional life. I feel blessed that I graduated from SMC.” |
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Junaid Mehmood Ansari
BNU Alumnus: MA Mass Communication, 2009
Chief Executive Officer, Koh-e-Noor Television
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| “Being part of the first batch at BNU provided me with the unique experience of getting hands-on education from the most prominent practicing international artists of our time, as well as interaction with an intensely intellectually stimulating and diverse student body. Now, having exhibited in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, Delhi, Toronto, UK, Cairo and the Gwangju Biennale, thanks to the support of the faculty I have received the Fulbright Award and am joining Massachusetts College of Art and Design for a graduate degree this fall. The experience and confidence BNU has given me will never be forgotten and I will return to do my part for future art students just like my professors did.” |
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Unum Babar
BNU Alumnus: BFA Visual Arts, 2007
Fulbright Scholar, Massachusetts College of Art and Design
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| “I stepped in Bnu,and stepped out -finds an incredible difference in who i was,and who i am. Transformation of personality,opening of new horizon,connecting with a group of diverse,engaged and intellectually rigorous faculty, and grabbing ever lasting enduring moments has put me in a state of pure bliss for rest of my life. Doing bachelors in Software engineering-IT, only boy-zone in Bnu ,i have developed predilection over the years for dedication in work and abbility to carry it out brilliantly. We have crystal clear visions and mindsets for opting careers.It is beyond belief that we move in a liberal society- inside the walls, which is determined and examines the full potentials of its students to explore as sky is the limit. It is an achievement being part of top-knotch university that produces top-Guns.” |
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M.Nosherwan Khan Niazi
BNU Student: Bsc Software Engineering
working at UNODC as Advocacy Coordinator
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“When I enrolled in Beaconhouse National University, I chose it for the vision it offered, the diversity of craft and the understanding of art. The experience however was more rewarding than that.
The course is designed to introduce one to the amazing world of art and history without limitations. The intense trainings in basics of graphics, sculpture, construction, drawing and history of world art opens portals to directions unexplored in whatever career one prefers to choose.
As a designer, I consider myself a product of diverse trainings, freedom of creativity, expression, guided by the vision behind the Department of Textiles, which is reflected in my work. I am proud to be a BNU Alum.”
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Fahad Hussayn
BNU Alumnus: B. Des. Textiles, 2007
Fashion Designer
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| “Excellent faculty, the promise for independent research and exposure were just some of the reasons why I chose to do my MS Public Policy from BNU. I confess BNU delivered on every promise; the faculty is committed and thrives on class discussions, the teaching methodology was never purely academic. I felt challenged in every lesson because I was expected and respected as an Economist from the first day. This instilled in me confidence and polished my drive, consequently I am heading for my PhD at The New School University as a Fulbrighter. If it weren't for BNU, Fulbright would never have happened for me.” |
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Izza Aftab
BNU Alumnus: MS Public Policy, 2010.
Currently: Fulbright Scholar.
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“My educational and work experience at BNU both have been edifying for my personal and professional growth. It is probably one of the few institutions in the country that impart knowledge with great practical value. It is incredible to be a part of BNU alumni. I received USAID fellowship under the WLTIE program for a master’s degree in US. This amazing opportunity would not have been possible without BNU. “
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Naila Tasneem
BNU Alumnus:, MS Public Policy (Gold Medallist) 2010
MA Economics University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee.
Currently: Lecturer at Department of Economics, BNU
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| "Studying for the Master degree in economics at BNU was my great academic experience. The teaching and research experience under world renowned economists at BNU opened a new world for me. It has shaped my ideas and helped me to learn how to think as an economist. I also got an opportunity under WLTIE program funded by USAID, to receive an MS degree from US, for which I’m thankful to BNU as it would not have been possible without it.” |
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Ghazal Tahir
BNU Alumnus: BA (Hons.) Cultural Studies, 2009.
Currently: Getting an MA in Social and Political Thought from University of Sussex, UK
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| “Studying English Literature at BNU sharpened my observations, made me an extrovert and fostered my artistic and intellectual life. The world’s best teachers coached, supported and mentored me into becoming a strong, confident woman with clear career goals, creativity and enthusiasm for new experiences. “ |
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Mahey Noor
BNU Alumnus: Literature student at SLA, 2010.
Currently: Educations Officer – developing curriculum for English Literature at Beacon house Headquarters
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| "The years spent at the Institute of Psychology, BNU, were the best years of my academic life. The experience was truly superb; intellectual stimulation, talented and resourceful faculty, and the opportunity to pursue your dreams are just some of the many things my fellow classmates and I experienced during those years. The programs are based on practical knowledge aimed at enhancing our potentials in terms of our personality and career. For anyone looking for an excellent learning environment and in-depth knowledge of Psychology, I would highly recommend IP, BNU". |
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Ishba Khan
BNU Alumnus: B.Sc - Honours Applied Psychology, 2010
Currently employed as Executive Counsellor at Willing Ways Pvt. Ltd.
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“One of the reasons I decided to study at the Institute of Psychology, BNU, was the environment of innovation and academic liberty that is so rare these days. The best thing about the IP is the high level of expertise in faculty and a matching thirst of learning in students which contributes to a great learning experience. Since the programmes are recognized by the HEC, I had no trouble applying abroad for specialization after graduation. I owe a lot to IP, BNU for a successful career in Psychology because it provided me with comprehensive knowledge of the subject, unique, sought-after professional skills and, most importantly, experience in the field.”
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Maheen Ghani Taseer
BNU Alumnus: B.Sc. Honours Applied Psychology, 2008
M.Sc. Work and Organizational Psychology (University of Nottingham, UK)
Currently working as a Psychologist at Al Razi Medical Diagnostic Centre
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“The Institute of psychology at BNU gave me the vision to explore new areas in psychology and led me to look for options for higher studies. The B.Sc. honours in Applied Psychology programme not only developed excellent professional skills in me but also gave me a lot of self confidence and prepared me for the challenges of higher studies abroad. As they say “the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step” so BNU gave me a perfect ground to take that first step.”
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Maryam Suheyl
BNU Alumnus: B.Sc. Honours applied Psychology, 2008
Fulbright scholar. Currently Masters in Psychological Counselling (Marital and Family Therapy) Programme, North-western University, Chicago
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| “This degree is not something that every university offers therefore it makes us unique in this market jam-packed of business students and makes us stand out from the rest.” |
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Mohsin Ahmed Nawaz
BNU Alumnus: BSc Management and Business Computing, 2010
Sales Executive, City FM 89
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“BNU School of IT provided me some really good learning experience. Now when working with country's major brand projects, the education I got from the school is being fully utilized.”
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Fahad Nawaz
BNU Alumnus: BSc Management and Business Computing, 2010
Head of Digital and Social Media Publicity, Lotus Client Management and Public Relations.
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“My learning experience at BNU has given me a lot of confidence and through that I am able to handle difficult things and pressures very easily. I would like to pay my tribute to management of BNU for developing my skills.”
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Usman Khan
BNU Alumnus: BSc Management and Business Computing, 2010
Customer Services Support Centre, Wateen Telecom
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“Studying at the School of Education at Beaconhouse National University (BNU) has been an enriching and valuable experience. The MPhil programme provided the flexibility that I needed to pursue further studies and continuous professional development while at the same time attend to my responsibilities at home. The scheme of studies in the MPhil programme helps to develop conceptual understanding of the key issues that are affecting the field of education globally and at the same time create awareness of their relevance in our own educational context in Pakistan today.The School of Education provides an important and much needed platform for students, teachers, administrators, education managers and others in the field of education to interact and discuss pertinent issues in a very friendly, motivating and student-centred learning environment. An important asset of the institution is the encouraging and motivating teaching faculty and helpful staff members. The assessments mode which also includes the use of presentations and seminars helped to refine my communication skills and further boost my confidence as a professional. If education is your priority or specialty, BNU’s School of Education is definitely the place to be.”
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Mazna Toosy
BNU Alumnus: M.Phil Educational Leadership and Management, 2011
Visiting Lecturer, Government College University and Kinnaird College for Women
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“I strongly feel that BNU and its highly qualified and talented faculty offer students a supportive and enriching environment full of opportunities for personal growth. The time that I spent in the MA ELM Programme at SE was the most creative and enjoyable time of my life. Not only did I get a chance to be engaged in interesting and stimulating academic discussions, but also to learn about a variety of perspectives in the field of educational leadership and management. Through the interactive learning sessions which focused on student-centred initiatives, I learnt to apply theory to practice.
I consider myself lucky as I was also able to improve my communication and inter-personal skills which are a great asset in my practical life and work. Lastly, the MA programme has enabled me to successfully make a transition from a teaching, to a curriculum coaching and implementation role, where I am able to apply the latest educational trends and bring about a positive change.”
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Asma Tanveer
BNU Alumnus: MA Educational Leadership and Management, 2010
Curriculum Coordinator, Beaconhouse School System
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| “I found SE a very professional school with a friendly atmosphere that provides endless support and guidance. I love the challenge of the university that it offers as well as the flexibility which is a pre-requisite of in-service teacher education programmes. The best thing about SE is the direct interaction between teacher and students and the personal attention made available in case of any difficulties. I feel that SE has empowered me as a human being and as a teacher and that now I can impact my students' lives and help them achieve their goals.” |
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Rauf Tahir
BNU Alumnus: MA Teaching English as a Second Language, 2011
Assistant Professor, Government Science College, Wahdat Road, Lahore
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“For me BNU is the best University in our country because it combines knowledge, virtues and creativity. The campus is an amazing place where skills in other areas can be pursued to improve one’s knowledge in the discipline one is interested in. There is diversity as well as variety. I find the unique flexibility that allows me to acquire additional skills for my dream career. It has enhanced my vision in every respect. The most important thing for all of us is that we are well prepared and know how to deal with most difficulties that will come along in our professional careers. I am really pleased and proud to be part of BNU School of Architecture.” |
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Jasim Azher Saeed
BNU Alumnus: SA Graduate in Architecture, 2010
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| “The past five years at BNUSA have passed in a whirlwind of activity from plaster carvings to roaming about in the streets of Beijing. It has been an amazing learning experience, with enthusiastic and determined teachers who have given us a lot of support, courage and knowledge enabling us to take on the world, head on!!” |
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Asna Khan
BNU Alumnus: SA Graduate in Architecture, 2010
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| “Bnu might be a relatively new university but surprisingly it has a lot to offer. I came in completely inexperienced and a bit scared. After all, liberal arts are not the most conventional disciplines on the planet. But I learned, much to my own surprise, that they are much more than what I had originally thought. Led by some great faculty, I was introduced to new ways of thought. My admittedly limited exposure was forced to expand in this situation. On the whole I have loved every minute at this university: they have been some of the best and at times hardest (due to the workload) years of my life, and I am very glad I came here.” |
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Haroon Qureshi
BNU Alumnus: SLA Graduate in Literature
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| “As a student of cultural studies at SLA I was exposed to various discourses which opened up various opportunities for graduate level study. Having moved from Lake Forest, a liberal arts college in the US, I wanted to study at a world class liberal arts institution in Pakistan. BNU's SLA was a great choice. Having completed my Degree in Cultural studies I was offered a place at University of Manchester's School of Politics. The highly qualified and friendly faculty at SLA encourages students to come up with unique ideas for their research projects. A degree from SLA, with electives from other schools such as mass communication and economics, fully prepares you for a bright future. I am certain that SLA will achieve great success in the future and I thank all the teachers who made my experience at BNU an unforgettable memory.” |
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Rabia Zaid
BNU Alumnus: SLA Graduate in Cultural Studies, 2009
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| “I have no idea where my four years, 8 semesters and 130 credit hours went. Loads of conflicts, a fair deal of fun and intermittent stints of studying: this is the pattern I seem to have repeated eight times; but, these four years seem to have contributed to my evolution from a sane kindhearted person to an educated retard lover! This is just one of the many memories I have of BNU. I don’t think I can ever forget my long lost welcome, my challenging shoots, panicky visits to the Dean’s office, and the late night sporty hangouts. As much as I hated my stay at BNU, I hate leaving it even more!” |
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Hassan Abbas Khokar
BNU Student: undergraduate TFT student at SLA
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“Beaconhouse National University provided us with the best faculty and support we could ever have wished for. Coming to a completely new environment, I had no idea how many surprises awaited me and what all I would learn. We spent many an all-nighter marathon writing one draft after another as our teachers painstakingly scrutinized every draft. At that time, writing so many drafts felt like a waste of our valuable time, but it is now that I realize the significance of those all night marathons.
My teachers' words still echo in my head sometimes. "No Disclaimers!" he would say sternly, and then he would cherish and delight in all the gibberish we undergraduates wrote. It was this appreciation that gave me confidence.” |
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Sameen Arshad
BNU Alumnus: SLA Graduate in Cultural Studies, 2009
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| “A year after joining BNU I feel that my views about things around me have changed significantly. I had wanted to go abroad for undergraduate studies—and had the socio-political climate not been what it is, I most probably would have—but over the course of the year, I have begun to see the inner beauty of things that may appear devastated on the outside. I had never thought I could enjoy learning as much as I have at SLA. I expected that I would get an opportunity to be involved in film-making only in the last semesters, but in my freshman year I have taken part in a number of short-film projects with my seniors. I also found one of my hidden talents in Digital Photography 101 in my first semester. This is one of the arts I want to pursue further because it’s connected to the inner me, and as my teacher says: a picture can tell a million stories. My other favorite class has been acting, which was taught by an instructor who has worked alongside Nicholas Cage, and who taught us how to harness ourselves to the souls of our inner actors. At the end of my four years here I know I will have received a well-rounded education and a complete skill package with which to handle every aspect of movie making.” |
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Usman Nadeem
BNU Student: First-year undergraduate TFT student at SLA
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| “The BNU City Campus is small and aesthetically challenged, but our department is like the colored area in a sepia photograph. Despite being a small department, we have the most wonderful faculty who are close to us, and who have been helping me through my three years in critical, analytical and creative work. Just come here! It’s fun and we learn A LOT! ” |
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Minhal Sabah Khan
BNU Student: Third-year undergraduate literature student at SLA
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| “Time spent at BNU has been a great learning experience for me. Previously, I had a limited world-view and by stepping in to this university, I stepped into a world of knowledge, productivity and creativity. The teachers actually contribute greatly towards this positivity, encouraging us at every point, offering academic and non-academic advice at all times. The goal is to inculcate positivity in the students and to instill a thirst for knowledge. Our classrooms are full of intelligent individuals with strong opinions and here we learn a lesson in tolerance, a virtue that is gradually disappearing in our environment today. Thus, BNU is not only a centre for academic excellence, it is also a place where we are taught to reach human excellence.” |
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Zahra Usman
BNU Student: Third-year undergraduate literature student at SLA
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“After completing my Bachelors in Economics at LUMS last year I had the option of doing one of two things: some tedious, low paying desk job and nothing. Studying economics had been a harrowing task and so I hadn't been thinking about continuing my education any further, but six months of doing nothing can take its toll on anyone. I was getting jittery, my nerves were shot. Finally, I just couldn't take it anymore. I decided one day to just get up and enroll.
Any masters programme would do, just as long as it steered clear of economics. The letters M, B and A will forever be scarred into my brain. Accountancy was another big fad. Nothing seemed to appeal to me on a personal level. Everyone was offering the run of the mill degrees and diplomas. Then I happened upon this thick prospectus under the debris of all the others. Beaconhouse; my old alma mater, the school I'd gone to for more years then I care, or dare to, remember. This was surely a tryst with destiny. I opened the prospectus with trembling hands.
My eyes started surfing the index. School of Architecture and Design. Nice. School of Visual Arts. Cool. School of Liberal Arts. stop, this was it. This was the thing for me, I just knew it. The very first programme on offer sounded tailor made for me, a Masters in Literature. I liked the sound of that word. It sounded...literary. It sounded intellectually stimulating, sophisticated.
I went to my father and promised him that I wouldn't steal anymore of his cigars if he let me study literature. He said yes and that was it. The next day I went and appeared for an interview, and two weeks later showed up for my first class. The School of Liberal Arts seemed nice and cozy, It wasn't over populated, things weren't overly formal, everyone knew everyone else; I've had a very pleasant five months in this place.” |
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Haseeb Asif
BNU Student: First-year graduate literature student at SLA
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| “It was a very nice experience, I made a lot of new friends who will stay with me forever. I will always remember the Café Chacha and the amazing faculty of SMC.” |
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Sultan Sheheryar
BNU Alumnus: SMC Graduate
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| “I will always remember my Zaidi clan at BNU.” |
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Raza Zaidi
BNU Alumnus: SMC Graduate
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| “I will miss waking up at 9 AM and getting to classes on time only to find the class has been canceled.” |
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Bilal Qasim
BNU Alumnus: SMC Graduate
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| “Gosh BNU!!! Is ki to kiya hi baat hai...not in the mood for studying? Don’t worry, just go to Uncle’s canteen and biryani khao aur ash karo aur agar biryani nai hai to simply go to Residency and chill...This is what BNU is to me!” |
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Fatima Shahid
BNU Alumnus: SMC Graduate
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| “It’s so hard for me to type this…honestly my eyes are wet because I have spent the best time of my life at BNU and it is without any qualm my second home. Dr. Mehdi once said,“I may or may not like the concept of a woman wearing the veil but if someone will force her to take it off or to wear it, then I will defend her right to wear or not to wear the veil.” These words are engraved on my mind and I have felt that freedom of expression and speech are of utmost importance. In the end I would like to thank Saira, Zebunnisa, Dr. Saman Talib, Ayela, Sir Asif, Sir Vasi, Sir Waqar, Sir Afzal Rehman and Sir Omer and many others for bringing a positive change in my life!” |
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Arooj Zahid
BNU Alumnus: SMC Graduate
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| “BNU, In particular SMC gave me the opportunity to explore various aspects of life. It proved to be a stepping stone for me and today I feel that the world is in my hand. Being a BNU graduate, I am confident in every walk of life. Special thanks to SMC faculty members and whole hearted thanks to Dr.Taimur-Ul- Hassan for being a support, a mentor and an idol.” |
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Rana Faizan Ali
BNU Alumnus: SMC Graduate
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“SMC provides a healthy learning environment with faculty that provides guidance, encourages creativity and empowers students with the ability of analytical thinking.
I had a great time here!” |
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Hina Bhatti
BNU Alumnus: SMC Graduate
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