Studied philosophy, politics and economics, Oxford University; Master’s (Hons) in Middle East History and Anthropology, London University. Extensive experience in television and radio, working on a range of programmes. Current work: Hard Talk for the BBC, which has and continues to feature some of the best known personalities and politicians in the world; presents World Debates and Intelligence Squared Debates, BBC. Has also produced and presented many programmes, including currently the definitive TV series of African history in partnership with UNESCO. Moderator for high-level panel discussions at conferences organized by international bodies such as WHO, UNESCO, UNIDO. Former: Trustee, National Portrait Gallery; Member of the Board, British Council; Chair, London-based freedom of speech campaign organization Article 19; Member of the Board, Overseas Development Institute. Chair, Royal African Society; Patron, BBC Media Action (the charitable arm of the BBC); Vice-President, United Nations Association UK; Member of the Board, African Union Foundation. Recipient of honours and awards, including: Honorary Doctorate, SOAS, London University, for services to international broadcasting (2011); International TV Personality of the Year, Association of International Broadcasters (2009); named one of Britain's top 100 most influential members of the black community, Powerlist 2012, Powerful Media.