A fearless journalist, influential broadcaster, and leading advocate for diversity and representation in UK media
Introduction
Afua Hagan stands as one of the most prominent and influential media figures in the United Kingdom today. Known for her confident broadcasting presence, sharp commentary, and fearless advocacy, she has established herself as a journalist and presenter who consistently brings depth, balance, and honesty to national conversations. From television screens to radio airwaves and major keynote stages, her voice carries authority, insight, and responsibility.
What truly sets Afua Hagan apart is not just her professional success, but her commitment to social progress. Her career reflects both the power and the pressure of being a visible Black British woman in mainstream media. While she has earned praise for breaking barriers and elevating representation, she has also openly addressed the challenges of bias, criticism, and resistance that come with such visibility.
Quick Bio
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Afua Hagan |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity | Black British |
| Birthplace | Glasgow, Scotland |
| Education | Journalism, City University of London |
| Profession | Journalist, Broadcaster, TV & Radio Presenter, Keynote Speaker |
| Current Role | Managing Editor, Black Business Magazine |
| Career Start | Television production and entertainment |
| TV Networks | ITV, BBC, Sky News, CNBC |
| Radio Platforms | LBC, Times Radio, TalkTV, talkRADIO |
| Known For | Media commentary, diversity advocacy, broadcasting |
| Public Speaking Topics | Diversity, Inclusion, Representation, Equality |
| TEDx Speaker | Yes (2024) |
| Source of Income | Media presenting, journalism, keynote speaking, editorial leadership |
| Language | English |
Early Life and Educational Journey
Growing Up in Glasgow
Afua Hagan was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, where she spent her formative years developing confidence, cultural awareness, and curiosity about storytelling. Growing up in a multicultural environment helped shape her perspective on identity, media influence, and social responsibility from an early age. Her upbringing gave her a strong sense of community and resilience, both of which later became defining qualities in her professional life.
Living in Scotland as a Black woman also gave her early exposure to the realities of representation and visibility. These experiences later influenced her commitment to inclusive media narratives and fair public discourse. Even before stepping into national platforms, she understood how powerful storytelling could shape perception and opportunity.
Journalism Education in London
At just seventeen years old, Afua Hagan made the bold decision to move from Glasgow to London to pursue formal training in journalism. She studied at City, University of London, one of the UK’s most respected journalism institutions. This stage of her life marked a major turning point, sharpening her communication skills and professional discipline.
Her time at university exposed her to the fast-paced systems of news production, ethical reporting, and broadcast presentation. More importantly, it strengthened her confidence to compete within a demanding and often exclusive industry. It also prepared her to navigate both creative success and structural resistance within media spaces.
Career Beginnings in Television
Early Media Production Roles
Afua Hagan began her professional journey working behind the scenes in television entertainment. She was involved with programmes such as T4, Popworld, and ITV’s 60 Minute Makeover. These early experiences allowed her to understand broadcasting from the production side, giving her a strong foundation long before she appeared on camera.
Working in television production helped her learn the technical rhythm of the industry, including audience engagement, live broadcasting pressure, and content development. This early exposure built the discipline that later shaped her success as an on-screen presenter and journalist.
Transition into Journalism and Editorial Leadership
After gaining experience in television, Afua shifted into print journalism and editorial work. She joined Blackhair Magazine as an editorial assistant and later rose to the position of editor through consistent dedication and skill. This promoted role allowed her to shape content, direct editorial decisions, and influence cultural conversations within Black British media.
She later became Features Editor at Pride Magazine and eventually served as Editor-in-Chief at Glam Africa Magazine. These positions established her as a respected editorial leader who understood both creative direction and audience impact. This stage of her career strengthened her voice and public recognition across multiple media platforms.
Broadcasting and On-Screen Presence
Television and Radio Career
Afua Hagan expanded her influence through broadcast journalism, hosting the television programme Sustainable Energy on CNBC. She also became a familiar face across leading UK networks, including ITV, BBC, Sky News, TalkTV, Times Radio, LBC, and talkRADIO. Her work across these platforms solidified her reputation as a trusted broadcaster and cultural commentator.
Her presenting style is recognised for clarity, confidence, and balance. She handles political discussion, royal commentary, and social debates with professionalism while remaining relatable to viewers. Her visibility across national channels positioned her as a prominent voice within British mainstream media.
Public Commentary and Media Influence
As a commentator, Afua Hagan is known for addressing themes such as race, identity, gender equality, media fairness, and social representation. Her perspectives contribute to national discussion and often challenge established narratives. While her outspoken views earn strong public respect, they also attract scrutiny and debate.
This dual response reflects the reality of being a visible advocate in a conservative and evolving media environment. Despite challenges, her commentary continues to spark conversation and drive awareness across social and political topics.
Keynote Speaking and Advocacy
Professional Speaking Career
Afua Hagan is also a widely respected keynote speaker and event moderator. She speaks at conferences, universities, corporate forums, and public platforms on themes of diversity, inclusion, equity, identity, and media responsibility. Her delivery is both informative and emotionally engaging.
Her keynote work extends beyond motivation into structured education, helping organisations understand unconscious bias, representation gaps, and workplace inclusion. Through this, she impacts institutional change in areas previously resistant to transformation.
TEDx Recognition
In 2024, Afua delivered a highly impactful TEDx talk titled Too Dark for Daytime TV. In this speech, she explored representation, colourism, and media stereotypes with honesty and depth. The talk further strengthened her reputation as a thought leader in modern broadcasting and cultural discourse.
Current Role and Professional Standing
Managing Editor at Black Business Magazine
Afua Hagan currently serves as the Managing Editor of Black Business Magazine. In this leadership position, she helps elevate Black entrepreneurship, enterprise leadership, and economic empowerment across the UK. Her editorial vision supports innovation, representation, and sustainable growth.
Through this role, she influences not only media narratives but also economic visibility within underrepresented communities. It reflects her ability to combine journalism with strategic leadership.
Ongoing Media Engagement
In addition to editorial leadership, she remains active across television and radio broadcasting. Her professional presence continues to grow as she balances commentary, presenting, speaking, and editorial responsibility with consistent public visibility.
Legacy and Public Impact
Afua Hagan’s legacy is defined by courage, representation, and transformation. She has reshaped how Black British women are seen within national broadcasting spaces. Her career proves that visibility and credibility can coexist despite resistance and criticism.
She stands as a powerful role model for aspiring journalists, broadcasters, and communicators. Her story reflects both the rewards and hardships of public leadership. While she celebrates success, she also exposes structural challenges, allowing progress to follow.
Conclusion
Afua Hagan represents the evolution of modern British media. From her early days in Glasgow to national television studios and global speaking platforms, her journey reflects discipline, impact, and fearless expression. She has successfully merged journalism, broadcasting, and advocacy into one powerful professional identity.
Her influence continues to grow as she leads editorial change, shapes public dialogue, and educates future generations. Afua Hagan remains not only a media figure but also a symbol of cultural progress in contemporary Britain.
FAQ: Afua Hagan
What is Afua Hagan known for?
She is known as a British journalist, TV and radio presenter, commentator, keynote speaker, and Managing Editor of Black Business Magazine.
Where was Afua Hagan born?
She was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland.
What is Afua Hagan’s profession?
She works as a journalist, broadcaster, presenter, speaker, and editorial leader.
What is Afua Hagan’s educational background?
She studied journalism at City, University of London.
Does Afua Hagan speak publicly on social issues?
Yes, she is a leading keynote speaker on diversity, representation, inclusion, and media fairness.
