When people think of RT, formerly known as Russia Today, they often picture its bold editorial stance and its controversial positioning in global media.
But behind the channel’s identity is a strong lineup of female presenters, correspondents, and newsroom leaders who play pivotal roles in shaping how RT communicates with the world.
From top-level decision-makers to fearless reporters on the ground, these women have given RT its distinctive voice.
1. Margarita Simonyan
Margarita Simonyan has been the editor-in-chief of RT since 2005, appointed to the role at just 25 years old.
Under her leadership, the network has expanded into a global broadcaster with multiple language services.
She is widely recognized for her sharp commentary and uncompromising editorial style, which continue to shape RT’s identity.
Simonyan has also pushed innovation at the channel, including the introduction of AI-generated news presenters.
A graduate of Kuban State University with a degree in journalism, she began her career as a reporter for Krasnodar TV before rising to become one of the most influential figures in Russian media.
2. Xenia Fedorova
Xenia Fedorova is the former Editor-in-Chief and president of RT France, where she played a key role in launching the channel’s French-language service.
Her leadership helped establish RT’s presence in the competitive European media landscape.
Fluent in multiple languages, she not only oversaw RT France programs but also contributed to expanding the channel’s digital platforms. Her strategic approach strengthened RT’s reach among international audiences.
Xenia studied at the Berlin School of Creative Leadership, equipping her with the management and innovation skills that defined her career in international broadcasting.
3. Anissa Naouai
Anissa Naouai gained recognition as the host of In the Now, in one of RT’s pioneering programs built around social media integration.
Her work stood out for connecting with younger, global audiences at a time when digital-first news was reshaping media consumption.
Her career at RT International followed earlier experiences as both an actress and journalist, which gave her a distinctive on-screen presence and storytelling approach.
Through In the Now, she helped bridge the gap between traditional broadcasting and interactive, online engagement.
Anissa studied at Hunter College, part of the City University of New York, and also trained at the Moscow Art Theater School (MAT).
This mix of education in both media and performing arts contributed to her unique ability to merge journalism with audience-centered communication.
4. Charlotte Dubenskij
Charlotte Dubenskij joined RT in 2017 and has since become one of the channel’s standout correspondents. She is known for her dynamic coverage of major international stories, including the Yellow Vest protests in France.
Her reporting has also highlighted humanitarian issues in the Middle East, giving audiences a deeper understanding of the challenges facing the region. Through her fieldwork, Charlotte has brought both credibility and energy to RT’s coverage.
Before joining RT, she worked as a presenter at France 24 and a reporter for ITV, gaining valuable experience that shaped her career in international journalism.
5. Maria Finoshina
Maria Finoshina is best known as one of RT’s leading war correspondents, with extensive frontline reporting from Syria, Libya, Egypt, Iraq, and other conflict zones.
Her fearless storytelling has given viewers both human stories and raw perspectives from the heart of global crises.
She began her television career at the age of 15 and later joined RT in 2005, starting as a newsroom editor before transitioning into frontline reporting. Finoshina also previously worked as a news correspondent for Russia’s Channel One.
Over the years, she has become a central figure in RT’s coverage through her special reports and field assignments.
A graduate of the Russian University, where she earned a Master’s in Foreign Languages, English and French, Maria continues to bring in-depth, on-the-ground reporting.
In 2023, she was appointed RT’s special correspondent for the Middle East, further cementing her role as a vital voice in conflict journalism.
6. Maria Zeleranskaya
Maria Zeleranskaya has been the Head of RT International newsroom broadcasts since 2005. She oversees editorial operations and played a key role in coordinating coverage of the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
She previously worked as a Multimedia Designer and Graphic Designer at NCH Software before moving into television as a Broadcast Designer at Bearcage Productions.
Maria studied at the Russian State University for the Humanities, building the foundation for her career in media, design, and broadcast leadership.
7. Oksana Boyko
Oksana Boyko is one of RT’s most recognizable anchors, known for hosting hard-hitting interviews and delivering coverage tailored for international audiences. She has become a familiar face for viewers seeking in-depth perspectives on global affairs.
She currently presents Worlds Apart, a program that brings together influential voices for conversations on politics, society, and international relations.
Before this, she worked as a reporter and anchor at RT International, gaining experience across the network’s flagship coverage.
Oksana studied journalism at St Petersburg State University (SPBU), where she built the foundation for a career that combines sharp interviewing skills with strong editorial insight.
8. Sophie Shevardnadze
Sophie Shevardnadze is best known as the host of SophieCo, a program dedicated to in-depth conversations with world leaders, thinkers, and cultural figures.
Her calm yet probing interview style offers audiences perspectives that go beyond the headlines.
Through her work, she has reinforced RT’s emphasis on global dialogue, creating a space for meaningful exchanges on politics, society, and culture. Her interviews have attracted international recognition for their depth and balance.
Before joining RT, Sophie worked as a producer and correspondent at CNN International.
She studied Journalism and Film at Boston University and also attended the Paris Institute of Political Studies, grounding her journalism in both media and political expertise.
9. Nadira Tudor
Nadira Tudor is a seasoned broadcaster who presents news bulletins and reports for RT International, bringing global audiences the latest developments with clarity and authority. Her approachable yet professional style has made her a trusted presence on screen.
She has a strong background in UK media, having previously worked as a presenter at Sky News, ITV, and BBC Radio. This experience has given her the versatility to handle both breaking news and in-depth reporting.
Nadira studied Communications at the University of Leeds, a foundation that supported her career in journalism and broadcasting across multiple platforms.
10. Yulia Shapovalova
Yulia Shapovalova is a London-based newsreader and producer for News UK, working with Talk Radio TV and Times Radio.
She previously reported and anchored for RT International and the BBC, covering global stories from Brexit to the Syrian conflict.
She is also a sought-after conference host and media trainer, having led communication programs for major organizations including NATO and the Royal Navy, while moderating high-profile debates and forums.
In addition, Nadira has built a strong corporate and voice-over portfolio, lending her skills to campaigns for Samsung, Aardman Animations, and Durex, making her a versatile presence across media, business, and public platforms.