Shini Muthukrishnan was born in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 2002, growing up in Stafford in the West Midlands of England. Her parents’ names have not been publicly confirmed, though she is a proud chai lover, especially when it is made by her mum. From a young age she played badminton for the Staffordshire county team for five years.

During the Covid-19 lockdown, Shini read 62 books and began her social media journey, building a following on TikTok and Instagram with videos celebrating her British, Indian and Malaysian heritage. One of her most popular videos, receiving more than one million likes, saw her discuss how to make the best chai tea. After graduating from King’s College London, she taught children in Hong Kong during her gap year and volunteered at a youth camp in Birmingham.

She was unveiled as Blue Peter’s 43rd presenter on 15 January 2024, making her live debut on CBBC on 19 January 2024, co-hosting alongside Abby Cook, Joel Mawhinney and Henry the dog. Since starting the role, she has gone on multiple adventures including an aerobatic flight experience and performing in Aladdin the Musical at the Palace Theatre.

Shini has also hosted CBeebies Live Bedtime Stories, CBBC HQ, BBC Live Lessons, BBC Bitesize and BBC Super Movers. She remains based in the UK and is represented by talent agency Insanity.