Radiocentre and BBC to host Diversity Radio Masterclass

Commercial radio and the BBC, in conjunction with Creative Access, are running an event aimed at young BAME (black, Asian, and minority ethnic) people looking to get into the radio industry.

The masterclass follows similar events at Google, ad agencies, parliament, ITV and Channel 4 geared towards helping young people secure paid training opportunities in the creative industries.

The radio masterclass will be held on Wednesday 16th January from 6-8pm at the BBC Radio Theatre in Broadcasting House, London.

Radio presenters and producers, including Joey Addai (Head of Events, Global), Neev Spencer (Presenter, KISS FM), Josh Ryan (Producer, BBC Sounds) and Sian Anderson (Presenter, BBC 1Xtra) and host Reece Parkinson (Presenter, BBC 1Xtra) will be discussing how they began their careers, sharing tips and answering questions. The event will be followed by a short networking session.

Ben Cooper, Controller for Radio 1, 1Xtra and Asian Network, said: “It is essential for the future of radio that the BBC and commercial radio work together to provide inspiration and opportunities for all young people. I look forward to working with our friends in commercial radio over the next year, and exploring other areas of collaboration.”

Siobhan Kenny, Chief Executive at Radiocentre, said: “A diverse workforce is key to ensuring the future health of our brilliant industry, and this event is a great way for young people to get helpful tips and practical advice on how to start their careers in radio.”

Josie Dobrin, Chief Executive at Creative Access, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be holding our third consecutive masterclass on radio at the BBC’s iconic radio theatre. It’s so important for the young people with whom we work to see senior professionals who look like them working in roles that they aspire to hold, and to learn about the breadth of opportunities within broadcast and commercial radio. As ever the Radiocentre have put together a brilliant panel of speakers, who will no doubt inspire, inform and amuse our intern and alumni community.”

Creative Access is a social enterprise finding creative roles for young people from BAME & other under-represented backgrounds, helping them secure paid training opportunities in creative companies and supporting them into full-time employment.

For more information contact michael.ireland@radiocentre.org