Our Mission
Zehn exists to amplify Pakistani and Pakistani American voices in the humanities, creating a sustainable archive of stories that reclaim and celebrate our diverse narratives. We believe in the power of authentic storytelling to bridge cultures, foster understanding, and challenge the monolithic representations that have too often defined our communities.
In a media landscape where our stories are frequently told by others, Zehn provides a platform for self-representation—a space where Pakistani and Pakistani American writers, poets, scholars, and artists can share their perspectives without the filter of external interpretation. We are committed to publishing work that reflects the full spectrum of our experiences: the joyful and the difficult, the traditional and the contemporary, the deeply personal and the broadly political.
What We Publish
Essays
Personal narratives, cultural commentary, academic pieces, and reflective writing that explores the Pakistani and Pakistani American experience in all its complexity.
Poetry
Lyrical expressions in English, Urdu, and other languages that capture the beauty, pain, and resilience of our communities across borders and generations.
Interviews
Conversations with writers, artists, activists, and community leaders who are shaping Pakistani and Pakistani American cultural discourse.
Voices
Oral histories, community profiles, and collaborative pieces that highlight the diverse stories within our diaspora communities.
Our Values
Authenticity
We prioritize authentic voices and genuine experiences over sensationalized narratives. Our contributors write from lived experience and deep cultural knowledge.
Inclusivity
While we center Pakistani and Pakistani American experiences, we welcome intersectional perspectives that reflect the diversity within our communities—across class, region, religion, gender, sexuality, and political belief.
Excellence
We maintain high editorial standards while providing mentorship and development opportunities for emerging writers and artists.
Accessibility
We believe great writing should be accessible to all. Our platform includes audio readings, translation support, and barrier-free submission processes.
Our Story
Zehn was born from a simple recognition: that Pakistani and Pakistani American voices in the humanities deserve a dedicated platform that honors both our artistic traditions and our contemporary innovations. Founded in 2025, we began as a passion project with the goal of creating a sustainable, community-driven archive of our stories.
The name "Zehn" (ذہن) means "mind" or "intellect" in Urdu, reflecting our commitment to thoughtful, nuanced discourse. Our tagline, "Zamaane ke Zarooratein" (زمانے کی ضروریات), means "needs of the times"—acknowledging that our stories are not just personal expressions but urgent cultural necessities.
Looking Forward
As we grow, we envision Zehn becoming more than a publication—we see it as a catalyst for community building, a resource for researchers and educators, and a bridge between Pakistani and Pakistani American communities across the globe. We are committed to sustainable practices that ensure our contributors are fairly compensated and our platform remains accessible to all.
"Our stories are not just entertainment or information—they are acts of resistance, preservation, and love. Through Zehn, we reclaim the right to define ourselves."