Summaya Mughal is a dynamic British radio and TV presenter, journalist, and podcast host. She began her broadcasting career in 2018 after winning a talent search at BBC Radio Nottingham, leading to her role as a presenter and producer for their weekday evening show. Summaya later joined BBC Radio Leicester, where she co-hosted the Drive show and eventually took over the Breakfast show. In 2022, she launched the acclaimed podcast 'Brown Gal Can't Swim', documenting her journey of learning to swim in eight weeks to address cultural barriers faced by South Asian women. This podcast earned her the Sports Journalists Association's Podcast of the Year award in 2023. Summaya continues to inspire audiences with her authentic storytelling and commitment to breaking down societal barriers.
Born (approx. date) | 1994 |
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Country | United Kingdom |
Age (approx.) | 31 |
Height | 152 CM |
Knows languages | English |
Occupations | radio presenter, TV presenter, journalist, podcast host |
Real name | Summaya Mughal |
Years active | 2018–present |
Known for | BBC Radio Leicester, 'Brown Gal Can't Swim' podcast |
Height | 152 cm |
Early Life and Education
Summaya Mughal was born in Nottingham, United Kingdom, in 1994. Raised in a South Asian household, she grew up embracing both her British and Pakistani heritage. Her father, a doctor originally from Pakistan, played a significant role in her upbringing. Summaya's early education took place in local Nottingham schools, where she developed a keen interest in media and storytelling. This passion led her to pursue higher education in journalism, laying the foundation for her future career in broadcasting.
Career in Broadcasting
Summaya's broadcasting journey began in 2018 when she won a talent search at BBC Radio Nottingham, securing a position as a presenter and producer for their weekday evening show. Her natural charisma and storytelling abilities quickly garnered attention, leading to her co-hosting the Drive show at BBC Radio Leicester later that year. In 2020, she took over the Breakfast show, becoming a familiar voice to listeners across Leicestershire and Rutland. Summaya's versatility also saw her presenting on BBC Radio 1 during their Christmas lineup in 2019, showcasing her talent to a national audience.
Brown Gal Can't Swim: Breaking Barriers
In 2022, Summaya embarked on a personal challenge to learn swimming within eight weeks, a journey she documented in the podcast 'Brown Gal Can't Swim'. The series delved into the cultural and societal barriers that prevent many South Asian women from learning to swim. Collaborating with Olympians Rebecca Adlington and Alice Dearing, Summaya aimed to inspire others by confronting her own fears and cultural stigmas. The podcast received widespread acclaim, earning the Sports Journalists Association's Podcast of the Year award in 2023, and sparking important conversations about inclusivity in sports.
Advocacy and Public Speaking
Beyond her work in broadcasting, Summaya is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion. She delivered a TEDx talk titled 'Realising the Power of Your Gift', where she shared her journey of embracing her unique talents and encouraging others to do the same. Summaya's advocacy extends to various platforms, including public speaking engagements and collaborations with organizations like the Royal Life Saving Society UK, where she discusses topics ranging from cultural identity to breaking societal norms.
Personal Life and Interests
Summaya's personal experiences deeply influence her professional endeavors. Her father's background and the cultural dynamics within her family have shaped her perspectives on identity and representation. In her leisure time, Summaya enjoys exploring new cultures, engaging in community activities, and continually seeking personal growth opportunities. Her journey of learning to swim not only marked a significant personal achievement but also highlighted her commitment to challenging herself and inspiring others to overcome their own barriers.
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