I am a dynamic leader in cultural strategy, partnerships, and audience engagement, with over 12 years of experience across radio, broadcasting, and media. My expertise lies in developing and delivering innovative cultural programs that amplify underrepresented voices, engage diverse communities, and drive meaningful impact. From leading industry partnerships at Global Academy to executive producing high-profile campaigns for BBC, NHS Blood & Transplant, and ACLT, I specialise in forging collaborations, curating compelling narratives, and championing diversity in media and culture.

Shahlaa Tahira

I am a dynamic leader in cultural strategy, partnerships, and audience engagement, with over 12 years of experience across radio, broadcasting, and media. My expertise lies in developing and delivering innovative cultural programs that amplify underrepresented voices, engage diverse communities, and drive meaningful impact. From leading industry partnerships at Global Academy to executive producing high-profile campaigns for BBC, NHS Blood & Transplant, and ACLT, I specialise in forging collaborations, curating compelling narratives, and championing diversity in media and culture.

Available to hire

I am a dynamic leader in cultural strategy, partnerships, and audience engagement, with over 12 years of experience across radio, broadcasting, and media.

My expertise lies in developing and delivering innovative cultural programs that amplify underrepresented voices, engage diverse communities, and drive meaningful impact. From leading industry partnerships at Global Academy to executive producing high-profile campaigns for BBC, NHS Blood & Transplant, and ACLT, I specialise in forging collaborations, curating compelling narratives, and championing diversity in media and culture.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Director of Industry Partnerships and Careers! at Global Academy (LBC, Smooth, Heart, Capital)
November 1, 2024 - Present
Develops and manages partnerships with key stakeholders in media, culture, and creative industries, ensuring students gain access to industry opportunities. Oversees T-Level placements, apprenticeships, and career initiatives, preparing young talent for industry success. Curates and executes high-profile career programs, panel events, and cultural initiatives, bridging education and creative industries.
Employer Advisory Board Member – Creative Industry! at Lewisham College
May 1, 2024 - Present
Advises on cultural programming, diversity strategies, and industry alignment for creative education. Supports development of work experience, T-Level placements, and skills training in the cultural and creative sectors.
Executive Producer & Broadcast Journalist at The Voice Box! Voices Radio
April 1, 2024 - Present
Hosts and produces a speech-based radio show amplifying diverse voices on social issues, culture, and identity. Collaborates with therapists, thought leaders, and cultural influencers to create engaging, impactful conversations. Engages underrepresented communities through live discussions, podcasts, and social media.
Executive Producer / Development Executive at BBC Radio 1Xtra, Asian Network, Channel 4.0
January 1, 2024 - Present
Led the launch of BBC Asian Network’s ‘The Everyday Hustle’, amplifying South Asian entrepreneurship stories. Creates and curates culturally resonant content that bridges digital, broadcast, and live event experiences.
Executive Producer – 1Xtra Life Campaign! at BBC Radio 1Xtra, NHS Blood & Transplant, ACLT
December 31, 2023 - October 10, 2025
Spearheaded a national campaign addressing the shortage of ethnic minority blood donors, uniting BBC, NHS, ACLT, and Westfield London. Designed and executed live cultural activation featuring R&B performances, DJs, influencers, and speakers, driving social impact. Led editorial strategy, influencer partnerships, and digital content production to maximise reach and engagement.
Executive Producer – Branded & Cultural Podcasts! at BBC 1Xtra & Sony Music Podcasts
November 30, 2023 - October 10, 2025
Executive produced BBC 1Xtra’s specialist music shows (Alternative, Afrobeats, Reggae, Rap, R&B). Developed and led branded podcasts for Pampers, Primark, Spotify, and Sony Originals, ensuring cultural relevance and engagement. Managed budgets, content strategy, talent, and production teams for multiple projects.
Senior Producer & Presenter – 1Xtra Talks! at BBC Radio 1Xtra
September 30, 2021 - October 10, 2025
Co-hosted BBC 1Xtra Talks, a current affairs & social issues show engaging young Black audiences. Produced and presented conversations on culture, identity, mental health, and social justice.
Director of Industry Partnerships and Careers! at Global Academy (LBC, Smooth, Heart, Capital)
November 1, 2024 - Present
Develops and manages partnerships with key stakeholders in media, culture, and creative industries, ensuring students gain access to industry opportunities. Oversees T-Level placements, apprenticeships, and career initiatives, preparing young talent for industry success. Curates and executes high-profile career programs, panel events, and cultural initiatives, bridging education and creative industries.
Employer Advisory Board Member – Creative Industry at Lewisham College
May 1, 2024 - Present
Advises on cultural programming, diversity strategies, and industry alignment for creative education. Supports development of work experience, T-Level placements, and skills training in the cultural and creative sectors.
Executive Producer & Broadcast Journalist at The Voice Box! Voices Radio
April 1, 2024 - Present
Hosts and produces a speech-based radio show amplifying diverse voices on social issues, culture, and identity. Collaborates with therapists, thought leaders, and cultural influencers to create engaging, impactful conversations. Engages underrepresented communities through live discussions, podcasts, and social media.
Executive Producer / Development Executive at BBC Radio 1Xtra, Asian Network, Channel 4.0
January 1, 2024 - Present
Led the launch of BBC Asian Network’s ‘The Everyday Hustle’, amplifying South Asian entrepreneurship stories. Creates and curates culturally resonant content that bridges digital, broadcast, and live event experiences.
Executive Producer – 1Xtra Life Campaign! at BBC Radio 1Xtra, NHS Blood & Transplant, ACLT
December 31, 2023 - October 10, 2025
Spearheaded a national campaign addressing the shortage of ethnic minority blood donors, uniting BBC, NHS, ACLT, and Westfield London. Designed and executed live cultural activation featuring R&B performances, DJs, influencers, and speakers, driving social impact. Led editorial strategy, influencer partnerships, and digital content production to maximise reach and engagement.
Executive Producer – Branded & Cultural Podcasts! at BBC 1Xtra & Sony Music Podcasts
November 30, 2023 - October 10, 2025
Executive produced BBC 1Xtra’s specialist music shows (Alternative, Afrobeats, Reggae, Rap, R&B). Developed and led branded podcasts for Pampers, Primark, Spotify, and Sony Originals, ensuring cultural relevance and engagement. Managed budgets, content strategy, talent, and production teams for multiple projects.
Senior Producer & Presenter – 1Xtra Talks! at BBC Radio 1Xtra
September 30, 2021 - October 10, 2025
Co-hosted BBC 1Xtra Talks, a current affairs & social issues show engaging young Black audiences. Produced and presented conversations on culture, identity, mental health, and social justice.

Education

PGCE at Canterbury Christ Church University
August 6, 2018
BA Hons in Drama, Film and TV at Brunel University
August 6, 2012
BA Hons in Drama, Film & TV (2:1) at Brunel University
January 11, 2030 - October 10, 2025
Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at Canterbury Christ Church University
January 11, 2030 - October 10, 2025
Professional Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) at Canterbury Christ Church University
January 11, 2030 - October 10, 2025
BA Hons in Drama, Film & TV (2:1) at Brunel University
January 11, 2030 - October 10, 2025

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Non-Profit Organization, Software & Internet, Healthcare, Professional Services