BBC - Asian Network - Silver Street The Residents

Nadia Akhtar
Played by Sohm Kapila

DOB: 24th February 1984
FAMILY : Parents - Pervaiz & Khatija; Brother - Zakir (Zak) Currently in a relationship with Sway Holloway
LIVES: In a flat above Jilani Fashions with Sway
WORK: Nadia manages Jilani Fashions
CHARACTER: A born fighter, Nadia is the one that keeps the Akhtar family going. She's ambitious and has big plans for her business. She doesn't always think before she opens her mouth though and frequently puts her foot in it with her lack of tact. She might act as if she's done it all, but underneath she's really quite shy
STAR SIGN : Pisces

Nadia

"A fighter, I suppose that's how I'd describe myself. I mean nothing comes easy in this life, does it? I've worked hard for everything I've got. Ever since Dad had his accident it's me that's had to take the lead, going out to work at the salon and helping to sort out his benefits. Those endless forms! I don't know who designed them , but they obviously never lived in the real world. I never used to be able to rely on Zak to help out, always having to cover for him but he's really changed recently. He's got much more serious ... Mum works hard as well, she was always taking in sewing and stuff to help out and then working at the newsagents. She was gutted when Mary let her go from there. Dad was much happier when he got back to work too. I miss them all so much now they are in Mirpur but I have to say it made life a bit easier for me and Sway!

"I had big ideas for Beauty Magic when I worked there - I was gutted when Mrs Shah hired Simran instead of me as manager. I showed them all with 'Glamour to Go' though. I made a real success of that but I needed more of a challenge. Styling, that's my thing and that's what some people just don't get - I'm really enjoying making over Jilani fashions and dragging it into the 21st century. It was so outdated, Rozena has no idea about Fashion, all she knows about is balance sheets!

"I just wish my family would understand about me and Sway though. It's been so hard, I want to please them but not if it means giving up the man I love. If only they'd try to get to know him I'm sure they'd realise what a great guy he is..."