Live From Teen Space

As Otago Access Radio prepares an exciting programme of events for the upcoming Big Listen, we caught up with Domi to find out more.

1. Hi Domi. You’re the Youth Co-ordinator for Youth Zone at Otago Access Radio. What does that involve?

My main role at the station is to connect with youth communities and agencies in Dunedin, to introduce them to Otago Access Radio and encourage them to get involved. I also work on recruiting and developing for the existing shows in our 4-5pm Youth Zone time slot, and coordinate our special Youth Zone projects.

2. Tell me more about the opportunities that Youth Zone offers young aspiring broadcasters.

Youth Zone is a great way for young people aged 8-22 to try out broadcasting in a safe, supportive environment. Even with zero prior knowledge, I have seen young people gain confidence in both technical and presenting sides of our shows, making radio that is relevant and interesting to their peers.

We have also had opportunities to work with young musicians during our Unplugged projects, and recently we’ve been creating a series called The Source which aims to better inform young people about how the city council works, and how they can become active citizens.

Volunteering with Youth Zone is also great for people wanting to apply for broadcasting schools in the future. Gaining some prior experience gives potential applicants an edge over their competition.

3. What is The Big Listen and how is Otago Access Radio taking part in this?

The Big Listen is a nationwide celebration of all things ‘access radio’ - The campaign will raise awareness in our communities about the incredible services the nation’s 12 access stations provide to get our communities on air, to get their voices heard.

OAR FM will be running several fun events over August to highlight the diversity of the people and programmes associated with the station. There will be live broadcasts from Artsenta and the Library, a panel discussion at Toitu and another edition of our very popular Music Quiz nights.

All of this leading to a better understanding of what Access Radio has to offer local listeners, and anyone interested in making their own show.

4. And you’re coming to do a live broadcast in the Library I hear. Tell me more about what you have planned.

On Monday 8 August, Youth Zone will broadcast live from Teen Space between 4-5pm, which is hugely exciting for us. It will be a celebration of our current, past and future volunteer broadcasters, hosted by a panel of our current Youth Zone team, so you can expect an entertaining afternoon of music and chat.

5. Can people come along and watch the broadcast, and what else will they be able to do?

Definitely. Everyone is welcome to come along and watch or contribute to the live show. Our plan is to include people from our past projects and to create opportunities for the public to join in with discussion. And our team will stick around at Teen Space for an hour after the live broadcast, so it will be a great opportunity for people to ask questions about Youth Zone and find out how to get involved.

Space Station Kiwi will also record a podcast of their award-winning Saturday morning show on 20th August, as part of the Big Listen celebrations. Join Captain Cornflakes from 11.30am-1pm in the Children's Storypit for some piratical fun. Arrrrghhh!