Tragedy as rising BBC reporter dies aged 27
A YOUNG journalist hailed as one of the BBC’s ‘brightest stars’ has died suddenly aged 27.
Described as ‘kind, clever and hardworking’, Somali-born Hanna Yusuf spoke six languages, including Arabic.
Among her recent work, the BBC News journalist helped to uncover Costa Coffee managers’ refusal to pay employees sick leave, prompting the chain to launch an inquiry.
In an emotional statement, her family said they hoped Miss Yusuf’s legacy ‘will serve as an inspiration and beacon to her fellow colleagues and to her community’.
BBC staff paying tribute included Desert Island Discs host Lauren Laverne. ‘Hanna always shone – she was gentle and kind, clever and hardworking,’ she wrote online. ‘It was a joy watching her career take off... my heart goes out to her family and friends.’
BBC News editorial director Kamal Ahmed described Miss Yusuf as ‘one of our brightest stars’, adding: ‘[She] was sharp, witty and allowed us all to understand the important stuff a little better. We will remember Hanna by learning from her remarkable work.’ Fran Unsworth, director of BBC News, added: ‘This is terrible news that has left us all deeply saddened. Hanna will be much missed.’
Miss Yusuf had previously written for The Times, The Guardian and Grazia magazine. The former hijab-wearer had defended the practice in 2015, saying: ‘It has nothing to do with oppression. It’s a feminist statement.’
The circumstances of her death have not been disclosed.