Charanpreet Khaira: The Rising Voice of Political Journalism at ITV Calendar
Who is Charanpreet Khaira?
Charanpreet Khaira is a dynamic British journalist and political correspondent for ITV Calendar, known for her insightful reporting and commitment to telling stories that matter. Based in Westminster, London, she covers key political developments that shape regions such as Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, North Derbyshire, and North Nottinghamshire. Over the years, Charanpreet has built a reputation for clarity, depth, and empathy in her journalism, earning her recognition as one of the emerging influential voices in UK political reporting.
With a strong background across major British broadcasters, including BBC Wales and ITV Cymru Wales, she has consistently demonstrated excellence in both on-screen reporting and documentary storytelling. Her career reflects not only her professional dedication but also her academic brilliance and cross-cultural insight.
Early Life and Educational Journey of Charanpreet Khaira
Charanpreet Khaira’s academic foundation laid the groundwork for her future in journalism. She attended King Edward VI High School for Girls, where her outstanding academic record earned her multiple awards, including the Foundation Scholarship for Academic Excellence and the Moira Smith Award for exceptional examination results. Her early education reflected her commitment to hard work, intellectual curiosity, and creativity.
She later pursued a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English Language and Literature at the prestigious University of Oxford between 2013 and 2016. During her time at Oxford, she was honoured with the East Exhibition for academic achievement and the Coghill Starkey Poetry Prize, showcasing her talent in both analytical and creative disciplines. Her passion for narrative and communication naturally led her to explore journalism and storytelling.
After completing her undergraduate degree, Charanpreet Khaira furthered her education at the University of Sussex, where she earned a Master of Arts (MA) in Media Practice for Development and Social Change. Graduating with Distinction, she focused on the role of media in international development and became a One World Media Scholar, an award that recognises journalists and filmmakers committed to global justice and impactful storytelling.
She also took part in the Caux Scholars Program at Asia Plateau, specialising in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution—an experience that deepened her understanding of global issues such as migration, inequality, and social transformation.
Professional Career of Charanpreet Khaira
Early Journalism Experience
Charanpreet Khaira’s career began with a series of formative internships and fellowships that sharpened her editorial and analytical skills. In 2015, she served as a Civil Service Summer Diversity Intern with the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) in Westminster, where she conducted primary research on national jobcentre provisions for disadvantaged claimants and produced policy reports for senior officials.
In 2016, she joined the Initiatives of Change in Switzerland as a Report Writer for the Caux Dialogue on Land and Security, contributing to international discussions on climate change, migration, and sustainability. Her experience in such global policy settings gave her an early understanding of governance and social challenges—insights that later enriched her journalistic perspective.
Charanpreet also gained editorial experience with The London Magazine, where she wrote essays and reviews for the UK’s oldest literary publication. Her ability to combine analysis with narrative flair was evident even in her early writing.
Documentary Work and One World Media Fellowship
In 2019, Charanpreet Khaira was awarded the One World Media Fellowship, which recognised her potential as a journalist and filmmaker. During this fellowship, she produced a documentary titled “Lola/Yaya”, focusing on the realities of Filipino economic labour migration. This work highlighted her sensitivity to social justice issues and her ability to humanise complex global subjects. The film strengthened her reputation as a journalist with both intellect and empathy.
Broadcast Journalism at ITV and BBC
Charanpreet Khaira’s broadcast career gained prominence at ITV, where she joined as a Production Journalist in 2018. Her early contributions in Bristol showcased her versatility behind the scenes. By 2020, she had moved on to become an Onscreen Journalist at ITV Cymru Wales, based in Cardiff. In this role, she reported on key social and political issues affecting Wales, earning widespread respect for her balanced and well-researched coverage.
Her storytelling was not limited to politics; she explored diverse human-interest stories that resonated with audiences across Wales and beyond. Her ability to connect complex national debates with real people’s experiences set her apart in regional journalism.
In early 2022, Charanpreet transitioned to the BBC, where she served as a Senior Journalist and Reporter at BBC Cymru Wales in Swansea. Her time at the BBC expanded her editorial influence, allowing her to cover a broader range of stories across Wales. She continued to excel in political and social affairs reporting, cementing her reputation as a trusted and articulate voice.
Political Correspondent at ITV Calendar
In September 2023, Charanpreet Khaira returned to ITV as a Political Correspondent at ITV Calendar, based in Westminster. Her move to the UK Parliament’s political hub marked a significant milestone in her career. From this vantage point, she provides in-depth political analysis and reports on legislative decisions, elections, and policy changes that impact northern England.
Her recent coverage includes insightful analyses such as “Has Politics Given Up on Levelling Up?” and “Red Wall Rebuilt on a Historic Night But Reform Poses a New Threat to Labour.” Through her clear presentation and nuanced understanding, she brings Westminster politics closer to regional viewers, translating national debates into meaningful local contexts.
Awards and Achievements
Charanpreet Khaira’s journalism has been recognised across the industry. She was named a finalist for the Outstanding Young Journalist Award at the Asian Media Awards 2019, highlighting her growing prominence among regional reporters. Her work continues to be featured by leading broadcasters and platforms, reaffirming her status as one of the most promising journalists of her generation.
Charanpreet Khaira’s Skills and Values
Storytelling and Clarity
Charanpreet is known for her ability to present complex issues in a clear and accessible way. Whether discussing parliamentary debates or local governance, her reporting is balanced, factual, and compelling.
Social Awareness and Empathy
Her educational background in media for social change, combined with international experience in development and conflict studies, gives her journalism a strong ethical foundation. She often highlights the human impact of political decisions, reflecting a commitment to fairness and inclusion.
Analytical and Cross-Cultural Perspective
Having studied and worked in diverse environments—from Oxford and Sussex to Wales and Westminster—Charanpreet brings a broad, analytical lens to her work. This depth allows her to navigate both local and global contexts with authority.
Personal Life and Interests
Outside of journalism, Charanpreet Khaira has a deep interest in international development, documentary filmmaking, and creative writing. Her multicultural background and global experiences have shaped her worldview, making her reporting both thoughtful and inclusive. She is active on social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), under the handle @CharanpreetTV, where she shares updates and insights on UK politics and current affairs.
Conclusion
Charanpreet Khaira stands as a beacon of thoughtful journalism in the UK’s fast-paced media landscape. Her journey from Oxford scholar to Westminster correspondent illustrates not only professional excellence but also a dedication to truth, empathy, and social impact. As the Political Correspondent for ITV Calendar, she continues to amplify voices from across the country, ensuring that politics remains connected to the people it serves.
Her blend of intellect, integrity, and compassion makes Charanpreet Khaira a journalist to watch—a storyteller shaping the future of British political reporting.
