Ex-BBC Presenter named Miss Universe GB Finalist

Former BBC presenter Karishma Patel is swapping her microphone for Miss Universe Great Britain to raise awareness for children in Gaza.

The 29-year-old is a finalist in the Miss Universe GB pageant. She previously held the Miss England Hertfordshire title in 2021.

The Miss Universe GB platform gives contestants an opportunity to advocate for causes close to their hearts, and Karishma is using her platform to highlight the plight of children in Gaza.

Karishma said: “I’m putting down the microphone to pick up a crown, all in service of children in Gaza.

“I’ve thought carefully about how beauty can serve ethical causes, and Miss Universe GB can shine a light on important issues—especially on International Women’s Day.

“I urge women to be bold, take up space, and champion what matters to them.”

Karishma Patel has long supported education charities, working with groups that empower children in India, Afghanistan, and Syria.

She is now raising funds for the Gaza Great Minds Foundation, which provides education for Palestinian children affected by the conflict.

The organisation aims to help students continue learning despite ongoing violence and instability in the region.

Karishma’s charity work aligns with her values as a British Indian. She has often spoken about the importance of cultural representation and breaking stereotypes.

As part of her Miss Universe GB journey, Karishma is also sharing her beauty tips.

She revealed: “I swear by Huda Beauty’s Cheeky Tint Blush Stick, which gives me a dewy glow as I strive for a spot in the Miss Universe 2025 global finals.

Karishma holds a master’s degree in English Literature from Cambridge.

She rose swiftly at the BBC, moving from researcher to newsreader, becoming known for her smooth delivery on BBC News Channel and Radio 5 Live.

During her time at the BBC, she covered major news stories and became a familiar voice to listeners across the country.

Her departure from the BBC in October 2024 surprised fans.

Sharing a photo from her final broadcast, Karishma said: “Goodbye to @BBCNews after 4 and a half years of newsreading, reporting, and producing.”

She added: “I’m off to a non-profit called the Britain Palestine Media Centre, where I’ll be their Senior Social Media Engagement Officer—taking care of all things social media journalism related.”

Karishma previously spoke about her commitment to social justice:

“I work in broadcast journalism, which allows me to expose injustice where I see it, and I do have a very strong humanitarian ethos.”

She has also volunteered in India, helping to provide free education to underprivileged children to break the cycle of poverty.

Her work involved teaching English and creative writing, encouraging children to develop confidence and ambition.

Karishma said: “I love to sing opera; Italian arias are my favourite. I play the piano, and I like to compose for it.

“I do a lot of portrait photography because I love the emotion it brings out in people’s faces.”