Riverside Radio celebrated its ten year anniversary by launching a charity appeal with its partner SoundVision CIC.
Started by former BBC presenter Jason Rosam, Riverside Radio has championed local stories across south west London and amplified voices of early career broadcasters over the years through its training programmes.
SoundVision also seeks to empower young people through its programmes, including its Riverside Radio club wherein it teaches the skills to achieve a successful media career.
Rosam said: “I saw a gap in local news coverage and wanted to create a platform that truly represented the voices of the community.
“My passion for broadcasting and community engagement drove me to build a station that not only covered news but also provided opportunities for aspiring journalists and radio presenters to gain hands-on experience.”
He believes that the radio has acted as a trusted source of news over the years, keeping the area’s residents informed on the important local stories which affect them and often get forgotten about.
Throughout the decade, the radio has had numerous achievements, including winning Digital and RSL Station of the Year at the 2018 Community Media Awards.
Riverside Radio has provided people aspiring to work within the media industry mentoring and training as their goal is to provide hands-on live, on air experience and guidance.
Rosam said: “We focus on practical skills, and also work to instil confidence and creativity in our trainees.
“It’s about giving people the tools and experience to pursue their passion in any aspect of the media industry.”
Additionally, Sound Vision seek to help transform up young lives through studio learning and creativity, providing everyone with equal opportunities.
Founder Dom Chambers said: “We strive to create a level playing field of opportunity so people get a fair chance irrespective of their starting point.”
He believes that it is key to fund the Riverside Radio club for young people as the skills that are gained through it, as well as the experience participating in broadcast media, are all transferable.
This helps individuals build the life skills and confidence they need going into work.
Chambers said: “With an expertise in training as an educational charity, Riverside are ideal partners when it comes to impacting opportunities for young people, some of whom have marginalised opportunities.”
Looking into its future with Riverside, Chambers hopes the Sound Vision-supported training at the station will become a beacon in London for what can be achieved in helping resolve social challenges through inclusive media training.
Rosam’s hopes for the radio are centred around growth, sustainability and continued community impact.
He hopes that it can expand its reach, and adapt and stay at the forefront of digital radio in the constantly changing landscape of media.
He said: “One of my biggest hopes is to strengthen our community and create more opportunities for local talent.
“I want Riverside to be a platform that nurtures creativity and gives people from all walks of life the chance to have their voices heard.”
He provided advice for those seeking a career in radio presenting, explaining that the key is saying yes to everything as well.
Chambers said: “Take every opportunity, no matter how small because every bit of experience helps you grow and get noticed.
“I’d also say, know your audience and be yourself on air and, finally, be versatile.
“Radio is changing fast, and the more skills you have, the more opportunities will come your way.”
Labour MP for Battersea, Marsha De Cordova, also sent her warmest congratulations to the radio on its anniversary.
She said: “It’s wonderful to see Riverside Radio celebrate its ten-year anniversary in 2025.
“That’s ten years of excellent broadcasting, championing local talent and delivering important stories to Battersea and south west London.”
You can donate to Sound Vision’s charity via https://soundvision.charity/donate.
Images courtesy of Nick McCluskey
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