Everyone at Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Media Action mourns the loss of George Alagiah. One of the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ’s most recognisable faces, with formidable international experience – particularly of sub-Saharan Africa, where, as a correspondent, he was among the first to cover the emerging HIV/AIDS crisis – he was also a dedicated and valued supporter of our work. George brought his extensive knowledge and passion to his role as Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Media Action trustee from 2010 until 2016. Although it was never in his nature to seek the limelight, George also brought his star power and charm to our annual fundraising dinners, helping to raise vital funds for our work.
He had a magnetic pull for our supporters, and put even the most star-struck at ease with his smile and natural curiosity; one year, he offered his time as an auction prize, and though clearly he found the heated bidding excruciating, he took the winning team’s loud jubilation with characteristic good humour and grace.
We are immeasurably grateful to have benefitted from his time and expertise, and we will miss him terribly. Our thoughts are with his wife, Fran, and their children.
