In the world of journalism—where deadlines are tight, stress runs high, and competition often overshadows collaboration—finding a mentor who not only guides you professionally but also supports you emotionally is rare. Emanuel Sarfraz was one such extraordinary individual—a beacon of kindness, integrity, and inspiration in an industry that often values toughness over tenderness.
Emanuel Sarfraz, who served as the Magazine Editor at The Nation and later as the founding editor of Academia Magazine, was much more than a boss to me. He was a mentor who saw potential where others saw inexperience, a leader who empowered his team to grow, and above all, a compassionate human being who treated everyone with respect and dignity.
I had the privilege of working closely with him during his time at Academia Magazine. From the very beginning, his approach stood out—he wasn’t just interested in meeting deadlines or producing content; he genuinely cared about the people he worked with.
He joined Academia Magazine in November 2018, after leaving The Nation, where he served for 20 years. His primary task was to launch a printed magazine, which would become Pakistan’s first-ever education-focused publication. Soon after joining, his focus shifted to forming a capable team. He hired a mix of full-time and part-time employees and started working on the inaugural issue of Academia. His tireless efforts bore fruit in March 2019, with the release of the magazine’s first edition, featuring interviews with then-Education Minister Shafqat Mahmood and filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy.
Emanuel Sarfraz steered the newly launched Academia Magazine with a clear vision and a strict editorial policy that upheld the highest standards of journalism. Under his leadership, the magazine quickly established itself as a trusted voice in Pakistan’s education sector. His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to balanced, insightful reporting helped Academia Magazine gain credibility, even in government circles. By addressing critical issues and providing in-depth analysis of the challenges and opportunities within Pakistan’s education system, the magazine became a vital platform for stakeholders, rapidly earning its place as a thought leader in the field.
I still vividly recall one cold evening in November 2018 when I was working at GNN and received a call from Emanuel Sahib: “Arsalan, share your LinkedIn profile and CV.” A few days later, I received an offer letter from Academia Magazine.
Thus began my journey with Emanuel Sahib. I can hardly remember a time when I brought an issue to him and he didn’t offer a solution. Whether it was financial support, equipment for remote work, fuel for field assignments, or paternal and maternity leave, he was always there for me. He provided solutions, relief, and unwavering support whenever I needed him.
One memory that stands out vividly is how he made everyone in the team feel valued and heard. During one of our editorial meetings, I suggested a feature idea that I wasn’t sure would be accepted. To my surprise, Emanuel Sahib not only approved it but also provided constructive feedback, turning it into one of the most impactful stories we published. He had an incredible way of boosting confidence and encouraging creativity, making every challenge feel like an opportunity to grow.
When my child was born, Emanuel Sahib’s support was nothing short of extraordinary. Understanding the emotional and financial challenges of the moment, he not only extended financial assistance but also allowed me to work from home for 20 days so I could be there for my family. This act of kindness and flexibility showcased his compassion as a leader and his ability to prioritize the well-being of his team. His thoughtful gesture during such a pivotal time in my life is something I will never forget.
Emanuel Sarfraz’s untimely departure has left a profound void in Lahore’s English media landscape, one that feels impossible to fill. As a seasoned journalist and editor, his unique ability to combine sharp editorial insight with compassionate leadership made him a cornerstone of the industry. The gap he leaves is not just one of expertise but of heart and humanity—qualities that are irreplaceable in an industry that deeply feels his absence.
As I reflect on my time with him, I feel immense gratitude for having had the opportunity to learn from such a remarkable individual. Emanuel Sarfraz will always be remembered—not just as a brilliant editor and journalist but as a guiding light whose impact transcended the newsroom.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
The writer, Arsalan Haider, is former staffer of Academia Magazine and can be reached at: arsal428@gmail.com
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