Radio station, Belfast 247, is searching for new presenters as the station continues to grow, and they want to make sure young people have the chance to train and learn.
Presenter and programme director, Robin Elliott, said the search for new talent is a key project for Belfast 247.
“While we are always on the lookout for new presenters, regardless of their age, we want to create the opportunity through our Search for New Talent to give young people who want to break into the broadcasting industry an opportunity to learn, craft, and hone their skills,” he explained.
“In Northern Ireland, there are only a small number of opportunities for young people to get broadcast experience, and very often it can be difficult for them to get their foot in the door.”
Launched in May this year, Belfast 247 is Northern Ireland’s newest online radio station playing all the greatest hits from the 60s to today. From The Beatles, Cher, and Abba to Queen, Dolly Parton, and Lady Gaga the station is full of anthemic tunes that shaped generations.
Since launching earlier in the year it has been developing and growing in listeners thanks to the existing team and scoring major interviews with a whole host of top names.
“We launched in May, but we have now really found our feet and are ready for the next phase with new projects and new shows,” said the broadcaster.
“There are a lot of exciting plans, and we want to make sure that we have an ever-expanding pool of presenters.”
Station managing director and presenter, Tina Calder said: “One thing both myself and Robin are very passionate about is giving young people who want to break into the broadcasting industry an opportunity to learn, craft, and hone their skills. We want to make it accessible to them.”
She explained that the opportunities were more than just a showcase.
“Every month we will ask people to submit their links for a 1-hour show, that show will then be scheduled into the station during the course of the month,” Tina said.
“At the end of the month whoever has the highest listening figures will be offered the opportunity to have their own show for a minimum of three months.
“Not just that we will also offer the new voice publicity management support and advice, training in how to use the radio playout systems, coaching as a presenter and a range of other production skills.”
To listen to Belfast 247 go to belfast247onair.com, download the app or listen on your Alexa smart speaker by saying “Alexa, enable skills Belfast 247” and then “Alexa launch Belfast 247” from then on in.
For more information on the search for new talent go to belfast247onair.com or to enter the competition email tina@excaliburpress.co.uk for a competition pack.
