"It’s such a special space for our culture."
BBC Asian Network has announced 12 new presenters who will host its Represents series from April 2026 to March 2027.
As part of the popular initiative, BBC Asian Network has been searching for the best up-and-coming radio talent across the UK.
Each of the 12 successful applicants will have the opportunity to host a full month of Asian Network Represents, sharing their unique voices and music taste with listeners across the UK.
Each presenter will deliver four shows, broadcast weekly on Tuesdays from 10 pm to 11 pm.
The cohort reflects a diverse mix of backgrounds and creative disciplines, including content creators, a dancer, an actor and a banker.
For several of the selected presenters, the opportunity marks their first experience working in radio, highlighting the scheme’s role as an entry point into broadcasting.
Among the line-up is Bablu, an award-winning presenter, speaker and content creator from Cardiff. He is known for his focus on music, classic Bollywood films and supporting emerging British and Welsh talent.
Another notable addition is Anoushka Chadha, who appeared in Prime Video’s Picture This and brings experience across acting, television, film and comedy.
BBC Asian Network Represents kicks off in April with Birmingham-based presenter and content creator Amkbhamra.
She has previously interviewed major music artists, hosted Shubh’s UK Tour debut and served as the opening voice for Karan Aujla’s first UK tour.
Her role on Asian Network Represents marks her debut behind the microphone as a radio presenter.
The 12 presenters are:
- Amkbhamra from Birmingham (April)
- Shumena Akther from London (May)
- Bablu from Cardiff (June)
- Kunza from London (July)
- Zaara Azira from Salford (August)
- Beant from London (September)
- Shilpa Sajan from Birmingham (October)
- Anyeka Jamal from Luton (November)
- Anoushka Chadha from London (December)
- Jas Aulakh from London (January 2027)
- Vignesh from Birmingham (February 2027)
- Pax Dharma from London (March 2027)
Bablu said: “I’m super excited to be joining BBC Asian Network Represents. I listened to the station growing up in Cardiff, so being part of it now feels like a real full-circle moment.
“It means a lot to be part of this space that celebrates culture, creativity and new voices.
“I’m excited to bring my perspective and shine a light on artists and stories that deserve to be heard.
“I also have to shout out my dad, who was basically ‘Mr Bollywood’ in our house and really sparked my love for music and connection to culture more widely. I can’t wait!”
Anoushka Chadha said: “Honestly, I’m buzzing to be part of the Asian Network family!
“It’s such a special space for our culture. My show is going to be a total energy boost, full of fun, laughs, and all the tunes that lift you up and keep you going throughout your day. Can’t wait!”
Amkbhamra added: “Joining BBC Asian Network Represents is a dream come true.
“Working with the BBC has long been one of my ambitions, and it’s a real honour to now be part of the BBC family.
“With a deep love for music, strong pride in my culture, and a passion for conversation, I’m excited to begin this new chapter.”
Head of BBC Asian Network Ahmed Hussain said:
“I am genuinely excited to welcome this new group of presenters to Asian Network Represents.”
“We were really blown away by the talent, creativity and hunger from people who want to be part of what we do, and this year’s cohort really stood out.
“They each bring something different, something real, and something that reflects the audiences we serve across the UK.
“Represents is all about giving people their first step into radio and creating a space where new voices can shine.
“Asian Network has always been proud to champion new talent, and it feels great to be giving another 12 presenters the platform they deserve.”
The successful applicants will have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Represents alumni, including Neha Navekar, who is now an Entertainment and Sports presenter for BBC Sport and Virdi Singh Mazaria, a music producer and DJ who went on to star on The Apprentice.
From April 2026, Asian Network Represents will broadcast every Tuesday, 10 pm – 11 pm and will be available on Asian Network and BBC Sounds.
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