Speakers

Ciara Riordan is an award-winning Irish journalist, presenter, moderator and podcast host with more than 20 years’ experience across broadcast, digital and social media in Ireland, Australia and the UK.

She has been with BBC News in the UK for the past 14 years, working across some of the world’s largest news accounts on Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, X, Facebook, WhatsApp and LinkedIn, reaching audiences of more than 250 million followers globally.

Ciara has presented across BBC News digital platforms to millions worldwide. Her interview with Sir David Attenborough went viral after she asked him what animal he would most like to be for a day - his answer: a sloth. She has also reported live on major breaking news stories including the Westminster and Manchester attacks.

Alongside her journalism career, Ciara is an experienced live host and moderator, chairing conversations and interviewing top guests at international events including Web Summit, SXSW London and the World AI Summit.

In 2026, she launched her own podcast Mná na hÉireann (Women of Ireland), celebrating Irish women at home and abroad through conversations about identity, ambition and the defining moments that shaped their lives.

Ciara also has a keen interest in women’s health and has hosted BBC News Instagram Lives on topics including endometriosis, PCOS and perimenopause.

Originally from Cork, she began her career in Ireland at Newstalk radio, presented her own breakfast show on Radio Kerry, worked for RTÉ, and also spent time with ABC NewsRadio in Australia before moving to the UK.