Without exaggeration, this has been an incredible experience. I came to Phoenix F.M. knowing very little about radio, but during the course of my time here, I’ve learnt most of what there is to know about it and how it works. It has been a surreal journey learning about the history of community radio, the significance and benefits of volunteering for a community radio station to how the sound desk works, how to record a promotion and planning and producing a show.
I was able to gain a substantial amount of experience with the support of Brian, Shannon, and Sean, and for that I am really grateful, not just for the opportunity but also for the kindness, patience, and creative freedom they have allowed us to have. They have proven to us, not just through teaching but also through experience, why it is valuable to work at a community radio station.
Making a show at Phoenix F.M. has been a lot of fun, maybe a little challenging at times, but with everyone’s support and communication it’s been a much smoother and more enjoyable process than I had anticipated. Brian and Shannon, especially in the beginning of the show’s development, gave us complete creative freedom over how and what we wanted it to be about. They have always been there for us and led us in the right direction without enforcing anything. It was really nice to be surrounded by people you can look up to and not feel judged for not knowing as much as they do about something, hence the help and encouragement we experienced here seemed genuine and heartfelt.
Working here made me feel heard and welcomed. That is why I now know and understand why it is effective to volunteer for a community radio station, as this type of experience is rare.
by Lougein Alkadi
