TV presenter and former Royal Marine JJ Chalmers has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Edinburgh Napier University for a remarkable career, which has taken him from military service to many of the world’s biggest events.
Born and raised in Edinburgh, JJ began his career as a teacher, while also taking up his journey of service, which led to the Royal Marines with 42 Commando.
Since sustaining life-changing injuries during a tour of duty in Afghanistan, he has made his name as an athlete at the Invictus Games and latterly become a widely known broadcaster.
Viewers will know him from his presentation of major sporting events, including TV coverage of the Olympics and Paralympics, while has also co-hosted the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, fronted documentaries, and even appeared as a contestant of Strictly Come Dancing.
In 2018, JJ also delivered an address as part of Edinburgh Napier’s Chancellor Talks series, entitled Finding Your Commando Spirit. His lecture gave an account of his personal journey, reflecting on how he confronted and overcame profound adversity.
JJ has been honoured by Edinburgh Napier University in recognition of his extraordinary service and his ongoing contribution to public life.
The award of Doctor of the University was presented during a ceremony for students from ENU’s School of Health and Social Care today.
JJ Chalmers said: “It’s a huge privilege. I love what I do for a living, so to be recognised for doing the thing I love is an unbelievable privilege.
“I am aware that I’ve been very fortunate to have a platform as a result of my profession, and I like to think that some of the stuff that I’ve done might have made some sort of impact on the world.
“To have that recognised today just reminds me to keep going, to keep doing everything I possibly can to help others.”
Presenting his honorary degree, Professor Gerri Matthews-Smith, Founder and Director of ENU’s Centre for Military Research, Education & Public Engagement, said: “JJ Chalmers stands as a living testament to resilience, adaptability and service, embodying the principle that adversity can serve as a catalyst for reinvention.
“His journey illustrates that true leadership is defined not solely by rank or title, but by the capacity to inspire others through courage, perseverance, and example.
“Reflecting on his story, we are reminded that the measure of a life is not determined by the challenges one encounters, but by the will to rise beyond them and the ability to guide others toward hope, purpose and renewal.”