In an era of shifting media landscapes and growing demands for representation, Shehab Khan has emerged as a standout voice in British political journalism. Young, bold, and deeply informed, Khan has not only made a significant impact in broadcast media but has also carved a niche for himself as a powerful public speaker, documentary presenter, and digital content creator. From reporting the intricacies of Brexit to covering some of the UK’s most defining political moments, Khan’s career represents the evolution of journalism in the 21st century — diverse, dynamic, and deeply personal.
Early Life and Education: Building the Foundations
Shehab Khan’s journey into the world of journalism was marked by academic brilliance and a keen interest in politics and public discourse. He studied Politics and International Relations at Royal Holloway, University of London, an institution that has long served as a training ground for influential figures in British political and media life. His background in political science laid the groundwork for his keen analytical approach and in-depth reporting on complex political issues.
Unlike many of his peers, Khan showed a strong inclination toward fieldwork and early media exposure, interning at various media outlets while pursuing his education. His academic foundation, combined with his practical approach to storytelling, made him an ideal candidate for political reporting at a time when the UK was undergoing profound transformation.
Breaking into Journalism: A Young Star at The Independent
Khan began his career as the youngest staff reporter at The Independent, where he quickly made headlines — not just for the stories he covered, but also for his exceptional clarity and depth. His early work spanned issues like Brexit, human rights, and political polarization, areas that continue to dominate the UK’s socio-political discourse. Reporting from the European Parliament, he offered a fresh, articulate voice on Brexit developments, helping younger audiences connect with otherwise complex parliamentary procedures.
At a time when many mainstream outlets were criticized for lacking youth representation, Khan became a notable exception. His rise was not just about diversity in terms of race or ethnicity, but also about the infusion of youth perspectives into political journalism, a space traditionally dominated by older, more established reporters.
Joining ITV News: A New Era in Political Broadcasting
Shehab Khan’s career trajectory took a significant turn when he joined ITV News as a Political Correspondent. In this role, he expanded his reach considerably, delivering news to millions across the UK through television, digital platforms, and social media. He became a recognizable face on ITV News bulletins, reporting on critical events such as:
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Brexit negotiations and fallout
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The resignation of Prime Ministers
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COVID-19 government policy responses
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Partygate scandal
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The death of Queen Elizabeth II
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The war in Ukraine and its UK political impact
These were not mere assignments; they were pivotal moments in British history, and Khan was often at the heart of them — asking the tough questions, delivering real-time updates, and unpacking layers of political complexity for a general audience.
The Hajj Documentary: Bridging Journalism and Culture
In 2023, Shehab Khan expanded his journalistic repertoire by writing and presenting a documentary titled “The Hajj: A Journey Through Mecca.” The film was critically acclaimed for its immersive storytelling and culturally respectful portrayal of one of the most significant religious pilgrimages in the world.
The documentary followed British Muslims on their spiritual journey to Mecca, offering insight not only into the religious aspects of the Hajj but also into the emotional and logistical challenges involved. Khan’s personal connection to the subject — being a Muslim himself — added a unique authenticity to the project. It wasn’t just reporting; it was storytelling with empathy, purpose, and global resonance.
Podcasting and Digital Media: Connecting with Younger Audiences
Understanding the importance of meeting audiences where they are, Shehab Khan has effectively embraced the digital landscape. He co-hosts the ITV News podcast “Calling Peston”, a platform that demystifies UK politics for a younger, more digitally-savvy demographic.
Khan also has a significant following on TikTok, where he breaks down political headlines into digestible, engaging content. This use of short-form video to communicate political news has made him a favorite among Gen Z and millennials, many of whom consider traditional political news dry or inaccessible.
His content doesn’t just inform — it educates, provokes thought, and encourages civic engagement. The fact that millions tune in to watch a political correspondent talk about policy decisions or parliamentary debates is a testament to Khan’s skill as a communicator.
Awards and Recognition: A Career of Impact
Khan’s dedication and influence have not gone unnoticed. His trophy shelf includes:
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Asian Media Award – Outstanding Young Journalist of the Year (2017)
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Chartered Institute of Journalists – Young Political Journalist of the Year (2025)
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MHP’s “30 to Watch” (2020)
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BBFC Journalist of the Year (2022)
These accolades reflect not just his journalistic skill, but also his ongoing commitment to ethical reporting, inclusivity, and public service journalism.
Public Speaking and Thought Leadership
Beyond the newsroom, Khan is a sought-after keynote speaker and event host, frequently appearing at conferences, panel discussions, and academic forums. Represented by speaking agencies like London Speaker Bureau and Chartwell Speakers, he delivers talks on topics such as:
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Politics and International Affairs
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Diversity and Inclusion
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Media Literacy
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Social Media Influence
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Unconscious Bias in Newsrooms
His speaking style is noted for being warm, engaging, and deeply insightful, often drawing from personal experience to bring authenticity to complex topics. Whether moderating a panel on post-Brexit Britain or discussing race and media representation, Khan brings nuance, clarity, and humanity to every stage he steps on.
Writing Beyond the Camera: Opinion, Commentary, and Columns
While Shehab Khan is widely known for his video and on-screen presence, he also maintains a strong portfolio of written work. He writes for Hyphen, a publication focused on Muslim affairs in the UK, contributing deeply considered opinion pieces on:
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The Labour Party’s relationship with Muslim communities
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The UK’s shifting stance on Palestine
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How British Muslims are navigating political engagement
He also maintains a Substack, where he shares personal musings, political breakdowns, and even Fantasy Premier League (FPL) strategies — adding a light-hearted, relatable touch to his otherwise high-profile public persona.
A Voice of the Future
What sets Shehab Khan apart is not just his impressive résumé or the awards he has collected. It’s the impact he has had on audiences, especially young people and minority communities who often feel alienated from mainstream political discourse. His approach to journalism is grounded in curiosity, inclusion, and responsibility — qualities that are more important now than ever.
As British politics continues to evolve, so too does the media covering it. And with figures like Shehab Khan at the forefront, the future of political journalism looks far more diverse, accessible, and human than ever before.
Final Thoughts
Shehab Khan represents the next chapter of journalism — one that is inclusive, relatable, and unapologetically informed. His work across television, digital media, print, and public speaking is shaping the way we consume, understand, and respond to political information.
From Westminster to Mecca, from newsrooms to TikTok, Khan’s voice is clear: Journalism must evolve with its audience, and he’s here to lead that change.
As we continue to watch his journey unfold, it’s clear that Shehab Khan is not just a reporter of change — he is a catalyst for it.
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