BBC Technology Journalist, World Service Presenter & Award-Winning Broadcaster Specialising In AI, Innovation & Digital Culture

Shiona McCallum is a Senior Technology Journalist and Presenter for BBC News, best known for presenting ‘Tech Life’ on the BBC World Service and reporting for the BBC’s flagship technology programme ‘Tech Now’. An award-winning broadcaster and live presenter, Shiona has built a reputation for making fast-moving, complex technology stories engaging and accessible for global audiences. Her work focuses on the intersection of innovation, artificial intelligence, Big Tech and everyday life, bringing clarity, empathy and authority to some of the most important conversations shaping society today.

After studying Law at the University of Glasgow, alongside further legal studies at the University of Helsinki, Shiona began her journalism career in Dubai as a News Reporter and Presenter for Arabian Radio Network. She later returned to the UK, working across Scottish radio journalism with Global, Radio Forth and Radio Clyde, where she developed her skills in live reporting, breaking news and storytelling. In 2017, she joined BBC Radio 1 Newsbeat, covering major national stories including the Manchester Arena bombing, the Grenfell Tower fire and the London Bridge attacks. Her ability to report calmly and accurately under pressure established her as one of the BBC’s most versatile on-air journalists.

Since becoming Senior Technology Reporter for BBC News in 2021, Shiona has reported internationally from some of the world’s leading innovation hubs, including CES in Las Vegas, FIFA headquarters in Zurich and emerging technology scenes across Africa. She has interviewed some of the most influential figures in global technology, including the CEOs of Bumble, Tinder and Pinterest, while also championing greater visibility for women within the sector. Alongside television, radio and online reporting, Shiona is a trainer for BBC Media Action, leading journalism training projects in countries including Uzbekistan and Algeria. Her work spans breaking news coverage, documentaries, podcasts, digital explainers and live presenting.

Beyond journalism, Shiona is a passionate mental health advocate and serves as an ambassador for the charity See Me. She has spoken openly about her experiences with post-traumatic stress disorder and postnatal mental health challenges, helping to challenge stigma and encourage more honest conversations around wellbeing. Equally comfortable interviewing global executives, innovative start-ups and vulnerable contributors affected by social media harms, Shiona is recognised for combining journalistic rigour with warmth and emotional intelligence.

Why Hire Shiona McCallum?

Shiona McCallum brings authority, warmth and real-world insight to every event. As a leading BBC technology journalist and presenter, she delivers engaging talks on artificial intelligence, digital innovation, women in tech, media, leadership and the societal impact of technology. Her experience covering global breaking news and interviewing major industry figures gives audiences unique insider perspectives, while her approachable presenting style makes complex subjects accessible and memorable. Shiona is equally effective hosting conferences, moderating panels and delivering keynote talks for corporate, public sector and international audiences.