Orla Chennaoui: Inspiring Journalist and Broadcaster Breaking Boundaries

Introduction

Orla Chennaoui is a celebrated journalist and broadcaster whose career spans news, sports, and wellness advocacy. Known for her fearless approach to storytelling and her ability to connect with audiences across Europe, she has carved a legacy as one of the most respected female voices in sports media. Her journey from Northern Ireland to international broadcasting highlights both professional triumphs and personal resilience, making her an inspiring role model for aspiring journalists and presenters.

Quick Bio of Orla Chennaoui

Early Life and Education

Childhood in Northern Ireland

Born in Draperstown, County Londonderry, Orla Chennaoui grew up in Northern Ireland during a period that shaped her resilience and perspective. Her early years were marked by a love for sport, and she excelled in athletics. As a young athlete, she became a two-time All-Ireland triple jump champion, showcasing her determination and drive from an early age.

Academic Path and Journalism Studies

Orla’s intellectual pursuits led her to Queen’s University Belfast, where she studied Law and French. Her passion for communication and analysis was complemented by a year in Rennes, France, which gave her deeper cultural and linguistic experience. Later, she pursued a postgraduate diploma in journalism at Edinburgh Napier University, laying the foundation for her career as a journalist and broadcaster.

Early Career in Journalism

Transition from Print to Broadcast

Orla Chennaoui began her professional journey in print media, contributing to outlets such as Scotland on Sunday and the Edinburgh Evening News. This early stage sharpened her writing and investigative skills, allowing her to transition into radio and regional television.

Regional Media Work

She worked at 2 Ten FM in Reading before moving to ITV Meridian and later STV Scotland. These roles gave her on-the-ground experience covering news, culture, and local affairs. Her confidence in front of the camera quickly distinguished her as a rising talent in broadcast journalism.

Breakthrough at Sky News and Sky Sports

From News to Sports Broadcasting

In 2005, Orla joined Sky News as Northern Ireland correspondent. She reported on politics, society, and regional stories, but her career took a defining turn when she moved into Sky Sports. Here, she became a familiar face for cycling and rugby fans, anchoring coverage of major events.

Covering Global Events

As a journalist and presenter, she reported from the Olympic Games, Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and the Commonwealth Games. Her engaging style and expert commentary made her a trusted broadcaster for millions of viewers.

Eurosport and International Recognition

Lead Presenter at Discovery / Eurosport

In 2019, Orla Chennaoui made a high-profile move to Eurosport and Discovery as their lead presenter for cycling coverage. She fronted major tours, including the Tour de France, Vuelta a España, and Giro d’Italia. Broadcasting from state-of-the-art studios, she brought both analysis and warmth to cycling fans across Europe.

Advocacy for Women in Sport

Orla has consistently highlighted the importance of women’s cycling and equal media representation. Through her work, she has challenged stereotypes in journalism and proven that female voices are essential in sports broadcasting.

Podcasts, Writing, and Wellness Ventures

Expanding Beyond Television

Alongside her television career, Orla co-hosts The Cycling Podcast Féminin, a platform dedicated to women’s cycling. She also launched When Orla Met…, an interview series exploring the human side of sport. In 2022, she co-created The Breakdown with Olympian Greg Rutherford, engaging sports stars in conversations about success, failure, and personal growth.

Ten Times Braver

Beyond journalism, Orla is the founder of Ten Times Braver, a wellness and mindset platform. As a qualified breathwork instructor, she uses her personal experiences with anxiety to inspire others to face fear with courage. This venture reflects her holistic approach to life, blending media influence with mental health advocacy.

Achievements and Recognition

Industry Respect

Orla Chennaoui has been nominated for Sports Presenter of the Year at the Sports Journalists Awards, underscoring her standing in the industry. She is widely respected for her ability to combine authority with authenticity.

Role Model for Journalists

Her career demonstrates the power of adaptability. From print journalism to global sports broadcasting, Orla embodies the modern journalist—versatile, multilingual, and fearless.

Legacy and Impact

Breaking Barriers in Media

Orla Chennaoui’s legacy lies not only in her career achievements but also in her influence on journalism as a profession. She has challenged traditional gender roles, giving young journalists, especially women, a roadmap to success in male-dominated industries.

Promoting Mental Health and Courage

Through her work on Ten Times Braver, she has helped normalize conversations about mental health in professional spaces. Her message is clear: vulnerability and bravery can coexist, and both are essential for growth.

Conclusion

Orla Chennaoui’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and inspiration. From her childhood in Northern Ireland to the global stage of Eurosport, she has proven that determination and passion can overcome barriers. As a journalist, broadcaster, and wellness advocate, her voice continues to shape conversations in sport, media, and beyond. Her impact is lasting, and her journey reminds us that true greatness lies in both professional achievement and personal courage.

FAQs about Orla Chennaoui

Q1. Who is Orla Chennaoui?
Orla Chennaoui is a Northern Irish journalist, broadcaster, and presenter best known for her cycling coverage at Eurosport and her wellness venture Ten Times Braver.

Q2. What is Orla Chennaoui’s educational background?
She studied Law and French at Queen’s University Belfast and earned a postgraduate diploma in journalism from Edinburgh Napier University.

Q3. What major events has she covered?
She has reported on the Olympic Games, Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Commonwealth Games, among others.

Q4. Is Orla Chennaoui involved in projects outside broadcasting?
Yes, she is a co-host of multiple podcasts and the founder of Ten Times Braver, a platform for wellness and mental health advocacy.

Q5. What makes Orla Chennaoui influential?
Her influence comes from her ability to combine professional excellence in journalism with advocacy for women’s sports and mental health awareness.

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