Farrah Merali has been named the new host of CBC Toronto afternoon radio show, Here and Now, with her first day in the host’s chair this coming Tuesday, Oct. 14.
Merali succeeds interim host Ramraajh Sharvendiran, who is returning as host of Ontario Morning, starting Oct. 27, after a year and a half away from the show.
Merali has worked with the public broadcaster on and off since 2009, initially as a casual associate producer and later as a reporter/editor and fill-in host on programs like Metro Morning and Here and Now. In between, she spent a year at Rogers Sports & Media’s News 1130 (CKWX-AM) Vancouver as an anchor and reporter. Most recently, Merali has been working with CBC Toronto’s Enterprise Unit focused on original and investigative stories impacting Torontonians.
“Farrah’s years in daily news and investigative reporting have set her up beautifully for this next challenge as host of Here and Now,” said Laura Green, Managing Editor, CBC Toronto, in an announcement. “She understands the importance of helping make sense of our ever-changing city and unpacking breaking news in the GTA to meet the audience’s needs. I can’t wait to hear where Farrah takes the show.”
“Growing up, CBC Radio was a staple in my household,” said Merali, who was raised in Victoria, B.C. “My parents came to Canada as refugees, and it was a tool they used to help them learn about this country. It’s a true privilege to now be able to use that same tool to connect with audiences in the most vibrant city in Canada.”
“I want to use my experience as a journalist to help people make sense of what’s happening in this city in a thoughtful, nuanced and engaging way,” she added. “I can’t wait to have honest and thoughtful conversations with people in this city.”
Merali is the recipient of multiple RTDNA Awards, including recognition for her coverage of the 2018 Toronto van attack. She’s also received nominations for Best Local Reporter at the Canadian Screen Awards and Best Broadcast Under Five Minutes at the Canadian Association of Journalists’ CAJ Awards.
CBC says Nav Nanwa, who has been heard on Ontario Morning since January, is remaining with the public broadcaster.
Here and Now is heard weekdays from 3 to 6 p.m. ET.
