In a media landscape often defined by stereotypes and gatekeeping, Ria Hebden stands out as a trailblazer. With a radiant presence on screen, a strong voice behind the scenes, and a mission to elevate underrepresented talent, Hebden has become a force to reckon with in British television. Best known for her work as a presenter on ITV’s Lorraine, All Around Britain, and her participation in Dancing on Ice, Ria Hebden’s journey is both inspiring and emblematic of the change the industry so desperately needs.
Early Life and Education
Ria Hebden was born on 2 January 1983 in London. From a young age, she showed a fascination with storytelling and performance. Her natural charisma and curiosity led her to pursue a career in media, where she could explore people’s lives and amplify their stories. She studied at Brunel University London, earning a BA Honours degree. This academic foundation played a significant role in shaping her professional capabilities and communication skills, which would later become essential in her television career.
Growing up in a multicultural household, Ria became acutely aware of representation — or the lack thereof — in British media. This awareness would later fuel her commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Building a Career Behind the Scenes
Before becoming a well-known face on television, Ria began her career working behind the scenes in publicity. She took on roles at some of the world’s most recognisable media brands, including Channel 4, Disney, Fox, and Twentieth Century Fox. These positions gave her unique insight into how content is shaped, marketed, and consumed. Working with globally recognised companies allowed her to understand how to engage audiences and build meaningful media narratives.
Her background in publicity also sharpened her understanding of branding and storytelling, giving her a competitive edge when she transitioned into on-screen roles.
On-Screen Breakthrough and Career Highlights
Ria’s on-screen journey truly began to gather momentum when she appeared as a guest presenter on ITV’s Lorraine. Her warm, empathetic style and confident delivery made her an instant hit with viewers. By 2020, she became a regular Entertainment Editor for Lorraine, delivering segments that showcased not just celebrity news but meaningful cultural commentary.
One of her most prominent roles came as co-presenter of All Around Britain, where she teamed up with Alex Beresford to explore uplifting stories from across the UK. The show celebrated local heroes and community achievements, resonating strongly with audiences who were seeking feel-good content amid turbulent times.
She also made headlines as part of the first mixed-race duo to co-host a BBC daytime programme alongside Sean Fletcher. This historic pairing represented a broader push toward inclusion and equity in daytime television.
In 2022, Ria took on a different kind of challenge by competing in Dancing on Ice. While her time on the show was relatively short, it showed a different side to her personality—courageous, determined, and unafraid of stepping outside her comfort zone.
Founder of Wonder Women: Advocating for Inclusion
While many may recognise Ria Hebden from her on-screen presence, one of her most enduring contributions to the media industry is her off-screen work. In 2016, she founded Wonder Women TV, now known as Wonder Women CIC. The initiative is dedicated to supporting, mentoring, and promoting underrepresented women in television and the wider creative industries.
Wonder Women runs a variety of programmes, including mentoring schemes, networking events, and inspirational masterclasses. The platform has helped numerous women break into the industry or take their careers to the next level. Ria has always maintained that diversity is not just a buzzword but a necessity for a thriving, representative creative sector.
Her efforts through Wonder Women have earned her several recognitions and nominations, establishing her not just as a presenter but as a change-maker.
Podcasting and Thought Leadership
Expanding her influence beyond the television screen, Ria launched The Wonder Women Podcast, where she interviews influential women across various sectors, including media, tech, and entrepreneurship. These conversations are candid, insightful, and offer a behind-the-scenes look into what it takes to succeed in competitive industries.
Through podcasting, she provides a platform for voices often excluded from mainstream narratives. Each episode contributes to a growing archive of diverse female experiences, encouraging young women to pursue their ambitions boldly.
Ria also regularly speaks at industry events, both in the UK and internationally. Whether she’s moderating a panel at Cannes Lions or presenting an award at a media gala, she carries her message of empowerment and authenticity with grace and authority.
Style, Personality, and Public Reception
Ria Hebden’s on-screen presence is marked by positivity, intelligence, and charm. She has a distinctive style that’s professional yet relatable, vibrant yet grounded. Whether she’s interviewing a Hollywood celebrity or highlighting a community leader, she brings the same level of warmth and attentiveness.
Her social media platforms mirror this approach. She uses them not just to promote her work but to inspire and engage with her followers. Through honest posts about parenting, mental health, and career challenges, she connects with her audience on a deeply human level.
It’s this authenticity that has helped her build a loyal following. In an era where viewers demand transparency and realness, Ria Hebden fits the bill perfectly.
Personal Life and Values
Outside her professional life, Ria is a devoted wife and mother of two. She often shares insights into her family life, striking a balance between career ambitions and personal wellbeing. Her ability to juggle high-profile work with motherhood makes her an aspirational figure for many working women.
Ria has spoken candidly about the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance, particularly in an industry that can be relentless and image-focused. Her openness encourages other women to seek support, set boundaries, and prioritise mental health.
She’s also a patron of the MAMA Youth Project, a charity focused on training young people from underrepresented backgrounds for careers in the media. Her involvement with MAMA Youth aligns perfectly with her broader mission to make media more inclusive and accessible.
Why Ria Hebden Matters
Ria Hebden matters because she’s not just participating in the media industry—she’s actively shaping its future. In an age of social reckoning, where questions of race, gender, and opportunity are front and centre, figures like Ria are indispensable. She doesn’t just talk about inclusion—she builds platforms for it.
Her work reminds us that television isn’t just about entertainment; it’s a powerful cultural tool. Who tells the story matters, and Ria is determined to make sure more women—especially women of colour—have the chance to do so.
Future Prospects
Ria Hebden’s journey is far from over. With a growing presence in both traditional and digital media, she’s well-positioned to expand her influence even further. Whether it’s through more hosting opportunities, public speaking, or scaling Wonder Women CIC, the road ahead looks bright.
There’s increasing speculation that she may take on more significant roles in production or executive leadership within the media. Her blend of creative intuition, business savvy, and social awareness makes her a natural fit for positions that shape programming and policy.
As the industry evolves, Ria Hebden is not just keeping pace—she’s helping set the tempo.
Conclusion
Ria Hebden exemplifies what it means to be a modern media professional: talented, purpose-driven, and unafraid to challenge the status quo. From her beginnings in publicity to becoming a household name and a diversity advocate, she has consistently used her platform to uplift others and push for systemic change.
