Sonali Shah has been a regular face on BBC One for more than a decade. She is in her sixth year of hosting the property show Escape to the Country and also presents from many live events, such as Trooping the Colour, The Lord Mayor’s Show and The Commonwealth Service, for the channel. Sonali joined the ITV Tonight reporting team in 2020 and has appeared regularly on BBC Radio 4's Today programme and BBC Breakfast. She has also been a regular voice on BBC World Service radio. Sonali was part of the presentation teams for Beijing 2008, Delhi 2010, the Cricket World Cup 2011, London 2012, Glasgow 2014 and Wimbledon for BBC Sport. Sonali was a long-serving presenter of Newsround when she travelled to China, Haiti and Afghanistan to make documentaries about children’s lives. She has also hosted Crimewatch and National Lottery Live for BBC One.
Sonali is an Ambassador for the British Asian Trust, The Prince’s Trust and Barnardo’s and regularly hosts live audience events. She speaks to Asian Voice about the Trust Ramble and more.
Tell us about the British Asian Trust Ramble. What are your expectations from it this year?
This is the first ever British Asian Trust Ramble, and as an ambassador and supporter of the Trust’s work, I’m delighted to have taken part in it. A group of supporters and friends of the Trust did a 25km urban trek across 7 Royal Parks in London to raise awareness of, and vital funds for, the British Asian Trust’s work in mental health, child protection, livelihoods, education and conservation. The British Asian Trust wants to see a South Asia that is prospering and fair for all. It is great to see the Trust’s work supporting ambitious, sustainable solutions that enable marginalised people to achieve their full potential. As it was an inaugural trek for the Trust, I wasn't sure quite what to expect, but I soon realised that if you talk while you walk, the time flies and before you know it, there are only 5km to go! We are lucky the sun shone for us all day and it felt special to see so many of the capital's most beautiful parks blooming - it was Spring at its finest.
How would you describe your experience as a presenter and as a woman in reporting across beats and talking to people from different walks of life?
It's been a real privilege to be able to tell stories from around the world to people. It was during my time as a presenter on Newsround when I was telling and showing British children how kids around the world were growing up when visiting places like Haiti or China or Afghanistan, that I decided I wanted to give my time to a charity like The British Asian Trust. Being a journalist and presenter has allowed me to have so many engaging conversations with people who have opened up my mind and made my world bigger. I hope that I've done the same to the people who have invited me into their homes, cars and places of work by switching on their radio or TV.
How do you think British Asian women have made a unique contribution to the fabric of Britain?
Just like women tend to be at the very heart of a household, women can do and have done, the same for communities and wider society. British Asian women of a certain generation sacrificed so much to make sure their families survived and made the most of available opportunities. Their daughters then went on to break barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields, encouraging diversity and representation, they've carved out spaces for themselves and paved the way for others. They've shattered stereotypes and blazed a trail in every facet of society. Their diverse perspectives and experiences have sparked conversations on identity, representation, and inclusivity, pushing Britain to have these important conversations. From politics to arts, science to business, their influence resonates in shaping Britain’s cultural landscape. Through being involved in community initiatives and charitable endeavours, like the British Asian Trust, they've lifted marginalised voices and forged bonds of solidarity, encouraging empowerment for all. Their contributions not only celebrate the richness of Britain’s multicultural heritage but also propel Britain towards a future where diversity is celebrated as our greatest strength.
How important is their involvement in trusts like BAT to further fuel a sense of belonging, community and above all, a better future?
British Asian women can bring a unique and make a valuable contribution to organisations like the British Asian Trust. As we discovered during our BAT ramble, there can be a real sense of satisfaction of achieving something as a collective. Involvement in these initiatives highlights our common goals, bridges cultural divides and strengthens bonds between communities that have had divisions in the past. By supporting vital work in education, mental health, livelihoods, child protection and conservation that tackles inequality and empowers people, women can be at the centre of nurturing a sense of collective responsibility.
How can women inspire inclusion in the society?
I believe women have the power to inspire inclusion in society in so many different ways. Firstly, through their leadership, women can champion diversity and representation in decision-making roles, ensuring all voices are heard and valued. Secondly, by advocating for inclusive policies and practices in workplaces, schools, and communities, women can create environments where everyone feels respected and included. Thirdly, by serving as mentors and allies to other women and marginalised groups, they can provide support and opportunities for growth. Additionally, women can use their platforms to raise awareness about the importance of inclusion, and challenging stereotypes and biases through dialogue and awareness raising. Ultimately, by leading by example and embracing diversity in all aspects of their lives, women can inspire others to join them in creating a more inclusive society for all.
