Get to know Zahra Premji: CBC Alberta News late night host

Join Zahra Premji Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. and Sundays at 11 p.m. on CBC TV for the people, places and stories that matter to you. 

We caught up with Zahra to learn more about her career and her life.

How did you get into journalism?

My life has been one whacky journey so far and some may say I don't really like to stay put. But, I think the thing is, I'm an explorer and I'm always on the search for a new story and a new community to explore.

With that being said, I spent a year in Melbourne, Australia when I was studying, then I started my career at home on the radio at CKNW in Vancouver, moved over to CTV Vancouver Island, hopped on to Global Winnipeg, then CBC Vancouver, and now here I am. Each city gave me a new challenge, whether it was finding new friends, searching for new stories, or looking for the best spin studio.

This search is all a part of why I got in to journalism in the first place. Since I was five, I knew I wanted to be a storyteller and give the voiceless a platform to share their tales. 

• Zahra Premji's full biography

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

In my spare time, as I'm sure it's no shocker, I like to explore new places. I also have a slight addiction to spin class so you'll often find me in a dark room, loud music, sweating on a bike. I'm also a book lover, so I'm always on the search (see, I'm searching again) for a new recommendation.

Where is your favourite place to travel?

Being an explorer I love travelling the world and take any opportunity I can to do so. I backpacked through some parts of Europe for a month alone for my birthday in 2018 and I don't think that's the end of it for me. But, I'd have to say my favourite place to travel is a toss up between two: My parents home country of Kenya as well as all parts of Australia. 

What do you love about Edmonton?

When it comes to Edmonton, I might not be from here but I have enough family here that I often feel like this is another home for me in some ways. But, now calling this my home means I can't wait to explore the festivals, the markets, the local shops, and of course trying out all of the spin studios around the city.

I'll let you in on a secret, my favourite season is bone chilling cold winter. I'm a bit of a vampire. So, I can't wait to get in to the winter season and all the festive feelings it brings.

What's on your playlist?

My playlist in my ears right now is mellow, Paper Kites and David Thomas Junior mixed with a little bit of Dua Lipa and Linken Park.