Actress and model Syra Yousuf recently appeared on the Mashion podcast, where she opened up about her journey as a single mother and shared empowering advice for women navigating life after divorce. The Mera Naseeb actress, who was previously married to actor Shahroz Sabzwari, discussed how societal attitudes toward single mothers and divorced women are gradually changing.
“Divorce rates have gone up, and now I feel like more elderly people have begun understanding that it isn’t easy for someone to end a marriage and start all over again,” Syra noted. She added that society is becoming more accepting of single mothers who choose not to settle for unhealthy relationships.
Syra, who shares a daughter with her ex-husband, emphasized the importance of maintaining a cordial co-parenting relationship to provide the best environment for their child.
Syra stressed the need for women to prioritize their financial independence above everything else, particularly for mothers raising daughters. She believes that setting a strong example for children is crucial.
“You can’t make any decision in life without being financially independent, which is why it is so important,” she said. “Being a mother to a girl, it is important to show that I was able to make such decisions because I was financially independent.”
During the podcast, Syra addressed the pressure divorced women face when seeking a second marriage. She highlighted the societal expectation for women to hide their past relationships to find a new partner, calling this mindset unfair and harmful.
Syra also criticized situations where divorced mothers are forced to abandon their children when moving into their new in-laws’ homes. “I find that heartbreaking,” she said. “Because I’m like, I’m sorry but why? You can start your second life with your child.”
Syra acknowledged the role of dating apps like Muzz in fostering transparency around previous relationships and marriages. However, she urged women to stand firm against societal pressures and prioritize their children when starting over.
