Suzanne Virdee: The Resilient Face of British Broadcasting and Diversity in Journalism
Suzanne Virdee is a highly respected British journalist, television presenter, and author, known for her integrity, professionalism, and commitment to storytelling that makes a difference. Born on 16 October 1969 in Solihull, United Kingdom, Suzanne has spent over two decades shaping the narrative of news broadcasting across the United Kingdom.
With her distinctive voice, journalistic precision, and warmth on screen, she has become one of the most recognisable and trusted presenters in British media. She works freelance with ITN, contributing to ITV News, BBC, and current affairs programmes, and continues to inspire audiences with her authenticity and inclusivity.
Early Life and Cultural Roots
Born to an Indian father and an English mother, Suzanne Virdee’s upbringing in the multicultural West Midlands gave her a deep appreciation for diversity and inclusion—principles that have shaped both her professional and personal identity. Growing up in Edgbaston, she experienced first-hand what it meant to straddle different cultural worlds.
Her father, who moved to the UK seeking better opportunities, taught her the importance of perseverance and integrity. Her mother, an Englishwoman from Dudley, encouraged creativity and independence. This fusion of values created the foundation of Suzanne’s empathetic and principled approach to journalism.
Suzanne has often spoken about being bi-racial and how that perspective allows her to bring empathy and fairness to her reporting. It has also driven her to champion diversity in media representation, both in front of and behind the camera.
The Start of a Distinguished Career
Suzanne began her career in journalism at just 18, working as a trainee reporter for the Solihull Times. Her sharp instincts and dedication soon led her to the Birmingham Post & Mail (now BPM Media), where she spent three years as a Senior Reporter.
Her early print journalism experience built her foundation for rigorous fact-checking, editorial judgment, and storytelling with integrity. Transitioning to broadcasting in the late 1990s, she joined BBC Radio Birmingham as a reporter, producer, and presenter, where she developed her voice and journalistic identity.
Television Breakthrough and National Recognition
Suzanne’s on-screen breakthrough came when she joined ITV News as a Reporter, Producer, and Presenter between 1999 and 2001. Her professionalism and charisma quickly made her a viewer favourite.
In 2001, she was headhunted by the BBC to present BBC Midlands Today, a flagship regional programme where she became the main face for over 11 years. During this time, she anchored major breaking stories, conducted high-profile interviews, and reported from across the region and beyond.
Her dedication and skill earned her the BBC Ruby Award for Best Presenter Team in 2007, judged by respected journalists Huw Edwards and Kevin Bakhurst. Suzanne also appeared on BBC Breakfast News, delivering the 6.00–6.30am programme and handling live, unscripted two-ways with correspondents from across the world.
Her calm and authoritative presence made her a trusted household name, particularly during fast-moving or emotionally charged news events.
Freelance Success: ITV, ITN, and Beyond
Since 2016, Suzanne Virdee has worked freelance across ITV News, BBC News, and ITN Productions, taking her journalism nationwide. She has fronted ITV National News, ITV London, and BBC Inside Out, bringing her experience, clarity, and compassion to each story she covers.
Her versatility as a journalist is evident: from hard-hitting current affairs reports on crime, politics, and social justice to heartwarming human-interest features that amplify unheard voices.
She has also worked with Channel 5 News, where she highlighted issues such as public safety and policing. Her report “Carjacking Terror and the Police Fight Back” for BBC Inside Out showcased her investigative skill and commitment to shining a light on real-world injustices.
Author, Mentor, and Advocate for Young Women
Beyond broadcasting, Suzanne Virdee is an acclaimed author dedicated to empowering young women. She has written two influential books published by Summersdale Publishers:
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A Teenage Girl’s Guide to Being Fabulous! (2015)
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A Girl’s Guide to Being Awesome (2020)
Both titles tackle the modern challenges of growing up in a world dominated by social media, body image pressures, and mental health struggles. Her work offers guidance, inspiration, and reassurance to teenage girls navigating today’s digital culture.
Suzanne’s books reflect her mission to boost self-esteem, mental health, and resilience among young readers. They have been praised for their honesty, positivity, and empowering tone, helping girls think critically and embrace their individuality.
Her advocacy extends beyond her writing—she is a mentor and ambassador for several youth and women’s charities, where she uses her platform to promote education, equality, and opportunity.
Leadership, Mentorship, and Diversity Advocacy
Suzanne’s achievements go beyond journalism. She is a Committee Member of the Royal Television Society Midlands, helping to promote and celebrate talent across the media industry. Her leadership style—empathetic yet firm—reflects her deep understanding of teamwork and creative collaboration.
As a bi-racial woman in British media, she is an outspoken advocate for diversity and inclusion. Suzanne believes that the media must reflect the communities it serves, not just through the stories it tells, but also through the people who tell them.
She consistently pushes for inclusive hiring, authentic representation, and cultural sensitivity in newsroom practices. Her approach to journalism is rooted in contextual accuracy, empathy, and fairness, ensuring that every voice is heard with dignity.
Public Speaking and Event Hosting
Outside of newsrooms, Suzanne is an engaging event and awards host through her company, Virdee Productions. Over the past 20 years, she has hosted major national and regional events including:
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BBC Midlands Sports Awards
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Royal Television Society Midlands Awards
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Women of the Year Awards, Birmingham
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Heart of England Fine Food Awards
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West Midlands Tourism Awards
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Harvey Nichols Fashion Shows
Her professionalism, warmth, and charisma make her a sought-after moderator and public speaker at corporate and social events across the UK.
Personal Life and Interests
Suzanne has been married to photographer Andrew Fox since 1996, and they live in the West Midlands. Their shared love of storytelling—hers through words and his through images—complements their creative partnership.
In interviews, Suzanne has described herself as calm under pressure, passionate about people, and deeply committed to using journalism to “shine a light on injustices and hold those in power to account.”
Away from the studio, she is an animal lover and often shares her affection for cats on social media. She’s also active on Twitter (@suzannevirdee) and Instagram (@suzanne.virdee), where she shares insights from her career and inspiration for aspiring journalists.
Suzanne Virdee’s Legacy and Impact
Suzanne Virdee’s story is one of resilience, representation, and purpose. From her beginnings as a local trainee reporter to becoming a nationally recognised broadcaster, she has remained grounded, authentic, and committed to truth and compassion in journalism.
Her success as a mixed-heritage woman in a competitive industry demonstrates her trailblazing influence and her dedication to opening doors for others. Whether reporting breaking news, writing for young women, or mentoring the next generation, Suzanne continues to embody integrity, courage, and humanity in every role she undertakes.
Conclusion
In an era where media trust and representation are more crucial than ever, Suzanne Virdee stands out as a beacon of balanced reporting and human-centred storytelling. Her voice carries authority and empathy, bridging communities and giving perspective to the complex issues that shape society.
She is not only a journalist and presenter — she is a role model, advocate, and mentor whose work continues to inspire audiences across generations.
FAQs
1. Who is Suzanne Virdee?
Suzanne Virdee is a British journalist, television presenter, and author known for her work with ITV News, BBC, and ITN Productions.
2. How old is Suzanne Virdee?
She was born on 16 October 1969 in Solihull, United Kingdom, making her 55 years old as of 2025.
3. Who is Suzanne Virdee married to?
She is married to Andrew Fox, a professional photographer. The couple tied the knot in 1996.
4. What books has Suzanne Virdee written?
Suzanne is the author of A Teenage Girl’s Guide to Being Fabulous and A Girl’s Guide to Being Awesome, both focused on empowering young women.
5. What is Suzanne Virdee known for?
She is recognised for her award-winning journalism, advocacy for diversity and inclusion, and empowering storytelling across British media.
