Alistair Hardaker
Image: L-R Krishnan Guru-Murthy, Swarzy Shire (Kew)
Broadcaster and former trustee joins Kew’s 14-strong ambassador programme supporting scientific research, conservation and public engagement.
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew has appointed journalist Krishnan Guru-Murthy and broadcaster Swarzy Shire as ambassadors, with Guru-Murthy transitioning to the role after serving six years as a trustee of the organisation.
Guru-Murthy, presenter of Channel 4 News for more than 25 years, most recently served as chair of Kew’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee. In his trustee role, he championed the launch of Kew’s £1 ticket offer for beneficiaries of Universal Credit or Pension Credit.
Shire, who hosts BBC Radio 1Xtra’s Weekend Breakfast Show and founded Too Much Source, a creative platform for young and diverse voices, chaired a session at Kew’s ‘Futureproofing: Youth, Education and Climate Change’ event in November. The event was co-hosted by Richard Deverell, Director of RBG Kew, and Mete Coban, Deputy Mayor of London for Environment and Energy.
The appointments bring Kew’s ambassador programme to 14 public figures, including Cate Blanchett, James Wong and Dame Judi Dench. The ambassadors support the organisation’s work across horticulture, science, education and training through storytelling, advocacy and public engagement.
“I’m delighted to continue supporting Kew in this new role. Having served as a Trustee, I’ve seen first-hand how vital Kew’s science and global partnerships are to tackling climate change and biodiversity loss. I look forward to helping share these stories even more widely and inspiring people to connect with the natural world,” Guru-Murthy said.
Richard Deverell, Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, added: “We are thrilled to welcome Swarzy and Krishnan as Kew Ambassadors.
“Both bring powerful storytelling talents, deep integrity and a commitment to engaging the public on pressing global issues. Their voices will be invaluable as we continue to widen our reach and inspire the next generation to protect our planet.”
