Raksha Dave

Raksha Dave is a renowned field archaeologist, author and international broadcaster who currently serves as the President of the Council for British Archaeology. Known for her presenting and researching work throughout the BBC, Channel 4 and Channel 5, she has more than two decades of both on and off-screen experience. With her expertise spanning prehistory to the Second World War, her career includes excavation, research and storytelling. A sought-after speaker, Raksha shares her knowledge from working on some of the world's most significant multi-period sites to give insight that lasts well beyond the applause. 

Raksha's career began after graduating from the UCL Institute of Archaeology, when she worked as a field archaeologist. Beginning her career with research excavations in the UK, Puerto Rico and Texas, she gained a broad perspective. Her fieldwork includes internationally significant projects such as the UNESCO World Heritage site of Çatalhöyük in Turkey, alongside major sites in London and beyond. In 2003, she joined the Westminster City Council as an Information Officer, where she researched, implemented and delivered key government strategies. 

In 2003, Raksha made her television debut, joining Channel 4 as a Senior Archaeologist and Presenter, where she became a household name on the series 'Time Team'. A familiar face on the programme for a decade, she excavated over 100 sites, including Westminster Abbey, Holyrood Palace and the C-Day Defences in Normandy. Raksha expanded her presenting work with the BBC, along with working on a series of short films by Lion Television, such as 'Ancient Voices', and Channel 5. With credits such as 'Digging for Britain', 'Digging for Britain's Past', 'The Great Plague', 'Sandi Toksvig’s Hidden Wonders', 'The Romans' and many more, she is a trusted voice across archaeology and heritage. 

Continuing to share her expertise in 2023, Raksha published her first children's book, 'Lessons From Our Ancestors', which was shortlisted for four literary awards and won the Discovery category at the British Book Awards in 2024. Her inspirational career has not gone without recognition. In 2021, she was invited to become a BAFTA member in recognition of her contributions to special factual broadcasting. Regularly serving as a jury member for the Film and TV Awards in the documentary category, she is a passionate advocate for public archaeology, community engagement and inclusive heritage practice. Working with cultural organisations to broaden participation, her talks inspire audiences across the globe to see heritage as something shared, diverse and relevant to all.