Nat and Katherine Sciver-Brunt, England cricketers and trailblazing couple, are set to make history as the first LGBT duo to grace the screen of CBeebies Bedtime Stories during Pride Month. This remarkable moment celebrates diversity and inclusivity, reinforcing the message of acceptance and self-discovery. The couple, who tied the knot last year, will captivate young viewers with their enchanting reading of Emily Coxhead’s delightful tale, “Find Your Happy,” which beautifully explores the journey of a sloth navigating through a range of emotions.
Having both represented England and earned the prestigious title of women’s cricketer of the year, the Sciver-Brunts are no strangers to breaking barriers. Nat, who led the English cricket team as captain until September 2022, made a courageous decision to withdraw from the sport temporarily, prioritizing her mental health and overall well-being. Emphasizing the significance of understanding and embracing one’s differences, Nat expressed, “It’s really important to know that it is okay to feel different things or not fit in and to know that you will find your comfort zone.”
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Katherine, who bid farewell to Test cricket in June of last year, shared her delight in being part of this extraordinary endeavor, particularly as a couple representing the cricketing community. The inclusion of the Sciver-Brunts in CBeebies Bedtime Stories serves as a testament to the progress made in promoting diversity within society and highlights the power of representation.
Joining the Sciver-Brunts in this celebration of inclusivity is Abtaha Maqsood, the first Hijab-wearing cricketer from Britain. Maqsood, an accomplished player for teams such as Scotland and the Hundred’s Birmingham Phoenix, will read “Not Now, Noor!” by Farhana Islam and Nabila Adani. This story beautifully delves into Noor’s inquisitiveness about the significance of headscarves worn by the women in her family. Maqsood, known for her exceptional bowling skills and her black belt in taekwondo, expressed her excitement at the opportunity to read a CBeebies Bedtime Story, emphasizing that these stories reinforce the idea that one can be whoever they wish to be, regardless of their religion or chosen attire.
The inclusion of these three inspiring women, alongside other sports stars and renowned personalities, such as Rob Burrow, Jessica Ennis-Hill, and Tom Hardy, in the cherished CBeebies Bedtime Stories series further demonstrates the platform’s commitment to promoting diverse voices and fostering a sense of belonging among its young audience. As Pride Month unfolds, the Sciver-Brunts and Abtaha Maqsood’s appearances on CBeebies Bedtime Stories will undoubtedly serve as an empowering source of inspiration and encouragement for children worldwide.
