Frank Gardner is a distinguished British journalist and television presenter, renowned for his expertise in security and international affairs. He holds the unique position of being the UK's first full-time Security Correspondent for BBC, where he reports and analyses issues related to both domestic and international security across TV, radio, and online platforms. Frank's journey into journalism began in 1995 after a successful nine-year stint as an investment banker in New York, London and Bahrain. His insatiable curiosity and quest for factual information drew him to the field of journalism. He started his career with BBC World as a producer and reporter, quickly advancing to become the BBC's first full-time Gulf Correspondent in 1997, and later the Middle East Correspondent in 1999.
Throughout his career, Frank has reported from some of the most perilous warzones globally, including Guantanamo Bay, Yemen, Afghanistan, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. His in-depth coverage of the global War on Terror is particularly notable. In 2004, while reporting in Saudi Arabia, Frank was critically injured in an Al-Qaeda gun attack, leaving him partially paralysed. Despite this life-threatening encounter, Frank's determination saw him return to his role within a year, continuing to deliver insightful reports from the field. In addition to his reporting, Frank is a prolific author. His book, Blood and Sand, reflects on his extensive Middle Eastern experiences and the profound impacts of cultural and religious conflicts. He has also penned several novels featuring the fictional MI6 operative Luke Carlton, which have garnered significant acclaim.
Frank's contributions to journalism have been recognised with numerous accolades, including an OBE for Services to Journalism in 2005. His profound experiences and resilience have also made him a sought-after motivational speaker. Through his talks, Gardner shares his powerful story of survival and perseverance, inspiring audiences with his journey from the brink of death back to active reporting. Frank's work extends beyond traditional journalism. He has presented several documentaries for the BBC, including Tintin's Adventure with Frank Gardner and Frank Gardner's Return to Saudi Arabia. His insightful and engaging presentation style has captivated millions of viewers worldwide, further establishing him as a leading figure in journalism and public speaking.
Frank Gardner's career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to truth and his remarkable ability to overcome adversity, making him a truly inspirational figure both in journalism and beyond. Frank Gardner is hired as a motivational speaker due to his extraordinary resilience and determination, demonstrated by his recovery from life-threatening injuries sustained in a terrorist attack. His powerful story of overcoming adversity, coupled with his insights on global security, inspires and motivates diverse audiences worldwide.
