Sarah Travers: From BBC Journalist to Renowned Communication Coach
Sarah Travers is a name synonymous with excellence in journalism and communication coaching in Northern Ireland. Known for her illustrious career with BBC Northern Ireland and her transition to becoming a co-founder of Bespoke Communications, Sarah’s journey reflects dedication, passion, and a deep connection to storytelling. In this article, we explore her life, career, and the impact she continues to make in the field of communication.
Early Life and Education
Born on April 3, 1974, Sarah Travers grew up in Belfast, Northern Ireland. She attended Dominican College in Portstewart, where she displayed a natural flair for communication and storytelling. Her passion led her to pursue a degree in Broadcast Journalism at Nottingham Trent University, graduating in 1995. During her university years, she started her broadcasting career, which set the foundation for her remarkable professional journey.
Career at BBC: A Legacy of Excellence
After completing her studies, Sarah returned to Northern Ireland and joined BBC Radio Foyle, later moving to BBC Radio Ulster. Her exceptional skills and versatility propelled her to become a prominent news presenter at BBC Newsline, a position she held for 17 years. Travers became a familiar face in Northern Irish households, covering pivotal events such as:
- The Northern Ireland peace process, which played a crucial role in shaping the region’s history.
- The London 2012 Paralympics, showcasing inspiring stories of athletes.
- The much-loved BBC Children in Need campaigns.
Her work reflected not only her journalistic skills but also her empathy and ability to connect with her audience. Travers left the BBC in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and dedication.
Transition to UTV and Lifestyle Programming
After her tenure with the BBC, Sarah joined UTV Media as a presenter, hosting lifestyle programming. This new role allowed her to showcase a different side of her talent, focusing on human-interest stories and celebrity interviews. Her ability to engage with people and highlight their stories made her a beloved figure beyond traditional news reporting.
Founding Bespoke Communications
In 2015, Sarah Travers co-founded Bespoke Communications, a leading training and professional development company serving the UK and Ireland. The company specializes in areas such as:
- Media Training: Helping professionals navigate interviews and media appearances.
- Public Speaking and Presentation Skills: Empowering individuals to communicate with confidence.
- Resilience Coaching: Equipping leaders with the tools to handle challenges effectively.
Through Bespoke Communications, Sarah applies her years of experience in journalism and broadcasting to empower others. Her tailored training programs, such as Powerful Presentations and Resilience Skills, have become highly sought after by leaders and organizations across various industries.
Podcasting: A New Avenue of Storytelling
Sarah Travers continues to inspire through podcasting. She hosts The Public Eye Podcast and The Lens Podcast for Business In The Community (BITC), where she interviews business leaders and delves into topics such as leadership, innovation, and resilience. Her podcasts provide a platform for thought-provoking conversations, showcasing her storytelling abilities in a new format.
Personal Life: Family and Philanthropy
Sarah Travers is married to Stephen Price, and together they reside in Portstewart, Northern Ireland, with their two children, Jack and Evie. Despite her busy professional life, she remains deeply committed to her family and community.
Sarah is a proud ambassador for several charitable organizations, including:
- Alzheimer’s Society in Northern Ireland
- Tinylife
- Young Enterprise
Her philanthropic efforts reflect her belief in giving back and supporting causes that make a difference in people’s lives.
Achievements and Recognition
Sarah Travers’s career is a testament to her versatility and dedication. From her days as a trusted news anchor to her current role as a communication coach, she has continuously evolved and excelled. Her credentials include:
- Certification as a Strengthscope Practitioner.
- An ILM Level 5 Certificate in Effective Coaching and Mentoring, enhancing her expertise as a mentor and coach.
FAQs About Sarah Travers
What age is Sarah Travers?
Sarah Travers was born on April 3, 1974, making her 50 years old in 2024.
What is Sarah Travers’s role at Bespoke Communications?
Sarah is the co-founder and director of Bespoke Communications, where she provides training in public speaking, media skills, and resilience coaching.
Is Sarah Travers married?
Yes, Sarah Travers is married to Stephen Price and lives with her family in Portstewart.
What podcasts does Sarah Travers host?
She hosts The Public Eye Podcast and The Lens Podcast, which focus on leadership and innovation.
What is Sarah Travers known for at BBC?
Sarah spent 17 years at BBC Newsline, covering major events like the Northern Ireland peace process and BBC Children in Need campaigns.
Conclusion
Sarah Travers exemplifies the power of storytelling and effective communication. Her transition from a celebrated BBC journalist to a sought-after communication coach and podcast host highlights her ability to adapt and thrive in different roles. Whether through her work at Bespoke Communications, her podcasts, or her philanthropic efforts, Sarah continues to inspire and make a meaningful impact.
Her journey is a reminder that with passion, dedication, and resilience, it is possible to create a lasting legacy in multiple fields.
