Zain Asher

Zain Asher is a lead anchor on CCN International, hosting the ‘One World with Zain Asher’ show. As a British-born Nigerian, Zain’s path to becoming a successful broadcaster in the United States was far from easy. Yet, through talent and determination, she has built a remarkable career, working with the network for over 13 years. As a keynote speaker, Zain shares words on resilience, overcoming challenges and having faith in yourself, drawing from her own experiences with adversity. With experience speaking at galas and industry events, Zain can talk on a range of topics with clarity and integrity. 

Graduating from Oxford University with a degree in French and Spanish, Zain then travelled to New York to study Journalism at Columbia University. Looking to build a career in media, Zain began searching for roles at local stations and networks. Sending out self-taped showreels to companies, Zain impressed News 12 Networks with her perseverance and natural ability, becoming their News Reporter in 2010. With a foot through the door, Zain quickly acquired a position as a monthly columnist for Money Magazine before becoming a National Correspondent for CNN in 2013. Since joining CNN, Zain has progressed to an anchor position, working on the Friday and Saturday CNN Newsroom, the CNN Freedom Project and her own show, ‘One World with Zain Asher’. Alongside her broadcasting career, Zain is a popular keynote speaker. She has given talks at large events, including the 2023 Action Against Hunger Gala in New York. Her TEDx Talk has amassed a staggering 2.3 million views, and centres on her unique journey to success. Titled, ‘Trust Your Struggle’, Zain shares the heartbreaking story of her father’s death, her varied educational experiences and how she landed her role at CNN. 

Zain's book, ‘Where the Children Take Us,’ builds on the same stories from her TED Talk. The gripping memoir devotes several sections to Zain’s mother, Obiajulu, highlighting her determination to secure a better future for her children. Thanks to such devotion, Zain's siblings have also had remarkable careers, including her Oscar-nominated brother Chiwetel Ejiofor, lead actor in 12 Years a Slave. As an ambassador for the GEANCO Foundation, Zain pledged to donate proceeds from her book to the charity to improve education across Africa. Zain also serves as an Advisory Council Member for Action Against Hunger. For her impactful work covering the Boko Haram Kidnapping, Zain was awarded the prestigious Peabody Award in 2014. In 2021, she was made an Honorary Fellow by Keble College, Oxford University, for her tremendous work as a broadcaster.  

Zain Asher is a testament to the power of relentless dedication and unwavering faith. Having landed her dream job at CNN despite facing uncertain times, Zain uses her story to motivate audiences to never give up on their aspirations. As a speaker, Zain captivates listeners with stories of grit and perseverance, embedding her advice on how to navigate uncertainty within her speeches. To book Zain as an unforgettable keynote speaker, contact Champions today!