Arina Aizal sees young people with podcast and radio programme ideas come into the Otago Access Radio (OAR) station with no idea how to run a show, but in no time they are on air, using the tech, sharing their views, music and passions.
As OAR Youth Coordinator and Community Connector, Arina gives free training to young people wanting to get their ideas out via podcasts and the airwaves.
Arina says, “I see their confidence growing, and the connections they make. They see that their stories matter. OAR signed up to the Ōtepoti Youth Vision because we see the value of young people, their stories and the things they can do. We see how passionate young people are about the things they talk about.”
OAR airs a dedicated Youth Zone segment from 4-5pm every week day. As at December 2021, twelve shows were being made by young people, airing live and as podcasts.
Arina says, “That’s five hours full of youth shows about music, politics, social issues, reviews of books and films – it’s all things they care about.”
Pictured above are Youth Zone’s youngest broadcasters, Rupert Lublow-Catty and Esmé Liesbeth Blaker.
Arina adds, “Youth Zone has funding from NZ On Air and the DCC so we can host these shows for free, offer free training in using the studio tech, and we help with promotion so their podcasts and radio shows reach a wider audience.
“We collaborate with different organisations, too, such as the Dunedin Youth Council, whose show shares information about what they’re doing or what’s important for them.”
If you want to get involved with Youth Zone Programming, email youthzone@oar.org.nz.