Sky News broadcaster gives talk at her former college
A Sky News broadcast journalist was welcomed back to her former college in Horsham for a virtual question and answer session.
Ashna Hurynag gave a fascinating insight into the professional world of television news, and the variety of progression routes in this field, during her talk via Zoom with students at Collyer’s.
Deputy principal Steve Martell, who also took part in the session, said: “It was an honour to welcome Ashna back. Her former teachers and I remember her fondly and I’m delighted that she’s accepted the chance to become a Collyer’s alumni ambassador.
“For somebody who has enjoyed such massive success, including a Royal Television Society Award, Ashna remains refreshingly down to earth and genuinely wants to help and inspire the next generation. She’s a special person who will make a difference.”
During the talk, Ashna spoke passionately about her work and the importance of equality and diversity in journalism, while students asked questions about her time on ITV and Sky News and the stories she is proudest of in her career so far.
Ashna was also quizzed about her role models, who include her mum and dad, Sir Trevor McDonald, Anna Botting, Mark Austin and fellow former Collyer’s student Holly Willoughby, who she really enjoyed being interviewed by.
Ashna said: “I have fond memories of my time at the college so it was an opportunity I couldn’t turn down.
“I always really enjoyed Steve’s classes and it was an honour to speak to these Collyer’s students as an alumni ambassador. Some of them are about to enter the world of work and others will be stepping into higher education.
“I hope my attempt to impart some advice and words of reassurance helps them feel hopeful about their futures. Even if one student goes on to fulfil their ambitions, I’d be over the moon.”
Student Sulaimaan Azoor said Ashna was ‘modest for somebody who has been so successful’ and that her answers were insightful, while Liberty Farley, a student who also attended the session, said Ashna was ‘really witty and inspiring’ and that she provided students with lots of useful advice to help anyone, particularly those looking into a similar career path as her.
Principal Dan Lodge called Ashna a ‘hugely inspirational role model’ for the students and said the college is incredibly grateful to her for actively working with the next generation.
Steve added: “We are proud of Ashna, Horsham should be proud of Ashna. After studying at Millais School and Collyer’s, she has cultivated a great career in broadcast journalism and all within the Collyer’s community hope the success story continues!”