Nihal ArthanayakeAcclaimed BBC Broadcaster, Communication Expert and Cultural Consultant

Nihal Arthanayake is a prominent broadcaster and author who has spent three decades at the forefront of British media. Currently the host of the long-form interview programme Headliners on BBC Radio 5 Live, his extensive career includes tenures at BBC Radio 1 and the BBC Asian Network. An accomplished presenter across multiple genres, he has fronted coverage for the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics in both Rio and Tokyo, alongside hosting documentaries for the BBC World Service and Radio 4. Before his broadcasting success, he established himself as a record industry publicist for high-profile artists such as Sir Elton John and Mos Def. Beyond the studio, Nihal is a respected authority on the art of communication and the mechanics of effective dialogue. His book, Let’s Talk, explores how to navigate an increasingly fractured world through better interaction, drawing on his experience interviewing global figures and his psychological research into successful conversation. He frequently advises organisations on fostering positive discussions and breaking out of online echo chambers to improve professional relationships and internal culture. Deeply committed to cultural development, Nihal has served as a trustee for the Southbank Centre, the British Council, and Factory International. He is a frequent moderator for major brands such as Google and Hugo Boss, known for his ability to lead nuanced discussions on diversity, media, and the arts. Audiences value his sophisticated interviewing style and his practical expertise in helping teams develop the essential human skills required for modern collaboration. On stage, Nihal Arthanayake is best known for talks on Cultural Commentary, Media, Communication, Diversity, Sports and Interviews. Audiences leave with a clear, practical view of the subject rather than a generic overview — every keynote is shaped around the brief and the room. Their work resonates with leaders across Arts & Culture, Education and Media & Broadcasting, where the themes translate directly into team decisions, customer experience and growth strategy. Nihal Arthanayake is regularly booked for Presenter & Awards Host and Performers and Entertainer, adapting tone, length and format to suit the event — from a 20-minute opener to a full conference keynote with Q&A. Based in UK, Nihal Arthanayake travels internationally for engagements. To check availability or request a tailored brief for your event, send an enquiry and we'll come back with fees, dates and a short summary of how Nihal Arthanayake would approach your audience.