Mikey Kay

Michael Kay is an accomplished television presenter, journalist, and former Royal Air Force officer, known for his compelling storytelling and fearless reporting from some of the world’s most challenging and volatile locations. His latest award-winning short film, "The Wheelchair Mafia," captured the incredible story of a beloved group of rescued, disabled dogs in Thailand. "The Wheelchair Mafia" won Best Direction at Toronto Featured Documentary and Short Film Festival.

After leaving the British Armed Forces, Kay began his career in media by spending the fall of 2013 in Beirut, where he hosted, directed, and produced a series of Telly Award-winning documentaries for the online news platform Vocativ. His work took him to regions such as Tripoli, Arsal, Mleeta, and the Qalamoun mountains, where he reported on the Free Syrian Army, mujahideen fighters, radical sheikhs, and Hezbollah. These reports were aired on MSNBC’s "Morning Joe." Kay’s continued commitment to international journalism saw him report from Kyrgyzstan in 2014, focusing on radical Islam, anti-gay legislation, and police corruption, and he also filmed for networks such as the Travel Channel and Discovery’s AHC. Currently, he presents BBC News World's "The Security Brief," a weekly geo-political and warfare show that takes deep dives into the current conflicts and frictions globally.

Before transitioning to television, Kay served in the British Armed Forces for two decades as an assault helicopter pilot. His military career included operational tours in Kosovo, Macedonia, Bosnia, Iraq, and Afghanistan, as well as humanitarian and diplomatic assignments in regions like Sumatra, India, and Africa. Kay quickly rose to Senior Officer status and spent his final years as an advisor within the UK’s Ministry of Defense. His military experience and global perspective are evident in his reporting, where he brings a unique blend of expertise, compassion, and dry British humor. This ability to connect with people while maintaining gravitas has made him a highly respected figure in both the military and media landscapes.

Outside of work, Kay is an avid adrenaline junkie, participating in triathlon training, motorbike racing, snowboarding, and open-water scuba diving. He also dedicates time to philanthropic efforts, serving on the Advisory Board of the Humane Society of New York.