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PICTURE CREDIT: Emil Kunda
Have you always wanted to report on TV?
I certainly wanted to be involved in television production. As I child, I was fascinated by how everything worked behind the scenes. I watched countless documentaries and DVD extras that showed how programmes were made. I performed regularly in stage productions when I was growing up, so there was always a part of me that perhaps wanted to explore options in front of the camera as a career. When I was 17, I was given a tour of the BBC's London headquarters and I was hooked!
How did you get the job as royal reporter on GB news?
I had developed a special interest in the Royal Family when I was at university in Nottingham. The newly engaged Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited the city, and I got the chance to cover the event as a student journalist. When I worked at ITV's Good Morning Britain as a researcher, I regularly volunteered to help produce the royal stories. When I moved to GB News (pre-launch) as a producer, I started to establish connections with The Royal Household. A few months before Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee celebrations, the channel decided they needed a specialised Royal Reporter and I jumped at the chance. I am lucky to work for GB News because the organisation is willing to give young journalists, like me, a chance. I think I would struggle to get the same experience so early on in my career at any other broadcaster. I also like having the freedom to explore any angle I see fit. I have never been told to avoid a specific topic or emphasise a particular point of view. As an impartial reporter, this is very important.
Who would you most like to interview that you haven't yet?
One day, I would love to interview The Prince of Wales. Prince William spends a lot of time working on long-term campaigns including mental health provision, conservation and working with emergency responders. He also has a big challenge, as future King, to engage younger generations with the Royal Family. It would be fascinating to ask him how he sees the monarchy adapting for the future, and to talk about his positive work to improve the planet for young people.
Where is the best place you have visited in your role?
Travelling to Boston in the United States last November for Prince William's Earthshot Prize was a great experience - despite the extremely cold temperature! The trip was full of hope and optimism for the future of our planet. The prize aims to find and grow solutions to repair Earth over the next decade. I had no idea how many American royal fans there were either - some of them even recognised us in the British royal press pack and asked for selfies. It was great to spend some free time exploring the city too. My parents took me to Boston when I was a baby, so it was good to return and actually remember it this time.
When you are not working, what do you like to do?
Living in London means I am lucky to have access to a wealth of arts and culture. I really enjoy going to the theatre, especially musicals. I recently saw Disney's 'Newsies' at The Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre and was blown away by the choreography. I work out at the gym, and enjoy sipping cocktails with friends - many of whom are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Of course, I have been known to have a dance in Heaven nightclub, but I prefer socialising with friends in a wholesome pub. I also love travelling abroad, and exploring different countries - when the budget allows it!
On your Instagram page you were at Brighton Pride last year. How important are Pride events?
Pride events are incredibly important. Growing up, I wasn't aware of what "Pride" meant. It certainly wasn't talked about at school, and to my knowledge, there weren't many big regional gatherings. It pleases me that LGBTQ+ children today can see Pride events are celebratory and accepting of everybody. This, along with the growing number of LGBTQ+ 'coming of age' TV programmes, gives me hope that one day people won't be afraid to come out. I came out very late at the age of 24 and I regret how late I left it. I really enjoyed Brighton Pride last year and I look forward to attending future events.
What are your plans for the rest of 2023?
I am very busy preparing to cover King Charles and Queen Camilla's Coronation on Saturday 6th May. I am lucky to work with some incredibly experienced presenters including Eamonn Holmes and Stephen Dixon, and I look forward to broadcasting with them. I am attending Brighton Pride again this year, having enjoyed it so much last year, and I hope to attend London pride events too. I have a few summer holidays planned where I intend to tan but will probably burn. I am hoping for an autumn royal tour too, but nothing has been confirmed yet.