Managing director of Google Africa Alex Okosi is among eight new trustee appointments to join the board of BBC Media Action, the broadcaster’s charity that supports media outlets across the world.

“Having worked across international media and technology businesses, I have seen first-hand the importance of communication that connects effectively across cultures, markets and communities,” said Okosi,

“It is what drew me to BBC Media Action, and I am delighted to join this talented board and contribute to its important work."

Also joining the board are Accenture managing director Naomi Wass, chief executive of US based Mountain Philanthropy Partners LLC Michael Madnick, and Anna Sedgley, a former chief finance officer for Dow Jones and Bauer Media and independent director for Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

Others appointed include BBC Nations finance director Samantha Sing, the controller of BBC World Service English Jon Silkha, former vice president for journalism at US-based Knight Foundation Jim Brady, and Hannah Jones, who is a former chief sustainability officer at Nike Inc.

The charity’s chair Rhodri Talfan Davies said: “In a world of division, distrust and disinformation, BBC Media Action is a force for good, improving, often saving, individual lives, and supporting democracy, freedom and human rights.

“I am particularly proud that we are able to share the best of the BBC – editorial standards, expertise, equipment - with media outlets around the world that have the same values as the BBC but a fraction of the resources.

“Our Board of Trustees is already exceptional. These new appointees take it to another level, providing vital experience and diversity in support of our ambitious goals to reach more people in crisis and conflict with the trustworthy information that can save and change lives.”

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