Actor made RNIB president

The RNIB has announced actor Victoria Smurfit as its new president. 

Dame Gail Ronson (left) hands over as RNIB president to actor Victoria Smurfit (right)

Victoria, the star of Disney+ UK drama Rivals, takes on the role as Dame Gail Ronson steps down after 14 years. 

Victoria will help strengthen relationships with supporters and senior volunteers, engage key partners and champion RNIB’s campaigns and services. Dame Gail has been made honorary president.  

Anna Tylor, RNIB chair of trustees, said: “I’m thrilled to announce Victoria Smurfit as our new president. She has a deep personal connection to our work and will be essential in ensuring we continue to support and empower blind and partially sighted people.” 

The actor’s daughter was diagnosed with Stargardt’s macular dystrophy as a child. Victoria’s father, business leader Dr Dermot Smurfit, is an RNIB vice president. 

Victoria said: “Over two million people in the UK live with vision impairment. One of those is my daughter Evie. As a result, I’ve seen first-hand how many barriers exist in our society for blind and partially sighted people, and how essential RNIB’s support and services are.” 

In 2024, RNIB launched its strategy to ensure everyone with sight loss can live the life they want to lead, without limits. 

For more information visit www.rnib.org.uk