Mwaka Mudenda has been unveiled as the new presenter of the BBC’s flagship children’s programme Blue Peter. She is the 39th person to be chosen as the presenter of the long running TV programme.
Mwaka, aka Mwaksy, will be revealed as the new presenter on tomorrow’s programme (Thursday 14 May).
But the reveal won’t be done in the usual way because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
Normally the new presenter would be live on air with their co-hosts showcasing their first major challenge, such as jumping out of a plane or swimming with sharks.
However, her first challenge will be how to ‘join’ fellow presenters Lindsey, Richie and Henry the dog without actually meeting up in person.
On her joy of joining Blue Peter, she says, “there is only one word to describe being the new Blue Peter presenter and that is mind-blowing!
“Despite lockdown, I’ve felt so welcomed by the incredible behind-the-scenes team that help run and deliver such a wonderful show – and I already feel like a big part of the Blue Peter family. I’m so excited to begin my adventure, with all the fun challenges it has in store. The chance to be a part of such a well-loved programme that has such an inspiring and creative young audience is a real blessing.”
Mwaksy, 25, was working for BBC Sport at MediaCityUK as an assistant producer when her talent was noticed.
Originally from South London she moved to Manchester to study anthropology before getting her job at the BBC in 2018.
She enjoys playing netball and often visits her family in Zambia, where she enjoys the food, people and culture.
She was a fan of Blue Peter as a child and had always wanted a badge, so is “more than thrilled” to be joining the team, even if she won’t get to meet Lindsey, Richie and Henry in person on her first appearance on the show.
Ellen Evans, Editor, Blue Peter, says: “It’s going to be an extraordinary launch for Mwaksy in extraordinary times, she has had to do her first show – and her first Blue Peter presenter challenge – from her home, but I have been blown away by her positivity, her warmth, her humour and her willingness to give things a go so she’ll fit perfectly with the Blue Peter family.”
The Head of BBC Children’s In House Productions, Helen Bullough, adds: “Blue Peter is all about having a ‘can do’ attitude and Mwaksy has already shown she’s brimming with the warmth, kindness and determination that kids find so inspiring. Everyone on Team BP is doing a brilliant job ensuring our trusted brand hasn’t faltered in its 60-plus-year mission during lockdown, continuing to delight and entertain Blue Peter fans by introducing them to a new friend and role model.”
Sources: BBC Press Office Twitter, BBC News and Daily Mail.
