Author: Reform Radio

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CV SESSIONS (FUNDED BY MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL)

We’re back with another one of our CV Sessions, kindly funded by Manchester City Council. Come along for an afternoon set aside for building your CV, or taking a closer look at the one you’ve already got, working through applications and cover letters, or practising interview technique. We’re here to get your confidence up, and get you prepped for your next steps.

Swing by on the 12th of June, 1PM-4PM, to meet our team and discuss any of the above. We even cover refreshments and travel too!

For more info and how to get involved, check out the flyer below.

If you’re unsure about what your next steps might be and need some support with seeking opportunities and career paths then you might want to check out our Next Steps session on the 8th of June too, where you can meet some industry pros, and careers advisors on where you want to go next.

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BEHIND THE SCENES: IN FOCUS PODCASTING (FUNDED BY ESF & SKILLS FOR GROWTH)

After seven weeks of incredible talent, creativity and teamwork, our In Focus: Podcasting course has come to a close. This programme was delivered in partnership with Greater Manchester Combined Authority, part of Skills For Growth initiative and funded by European Social Fund. This time round we welcomed a collection of audio-enthusiasts to the space to work on production, editing, script-writing and MORE in progression towards launching their own podcasts. With a helping hand from our award-winning Audio Production Team, our participants gained hands-on experience in the likes of interview technique, publishing, and guest sourcing, not to mention brainstorming podcasting ideas altogether.

We caught up with two of our participants, Joss (he/him) and Lauren (she/her) to find out more about what they got up to and where they’re going from here.

1. Please can you tell us a little bit about yourself? What do you do? What are your interests & hobbies?

L: I am a cancer-specialist nurse, working and living in Manchester. I have two feral children, aged 6 and 2 and a half who keep me on my toes. I am also married to a nurse and between us we love travelling, seeing the world, eating good food and drinking wine (me, not the kids haha)

J: I am the Lead Carbon Consultant for Net Zero Group.

3. Why did you want to join this In Focus course?

L: So I saw the course on one of my community Whatsapp group chats and as soon as I saw it, I knew I wanted to take part. As a nurse, you come across and meet so many incredible people and there are some very funny situations you find yourself in. I think we have the ability to find light in the dark and I was really keen to do this course to share our stories of how we balance everyday life and work, and the challenges we face whilst doing so.

J: I was feeling pretty lost with my work, and I was desperate for a creative outlet, so it was perfect timing for me when I came across the advert for the course. I already have a radio show but I felt like my ideas were more appropriate for a podcast so it was the perfect opportunity.


4. What interests you about podcasting and audio in general?

L: I absolutely LOVE podcasts. I listen to them on the school run, I listen to them on the way to work and I love how accessible they are and how varied they can be.


5. What’s your favourite aspect about podcasting/audio?

L: This is probably a new-found favourite as I’d never really done podcasting before, but it’s definitely recording and editing. It’s something I never thought I’d be capable of doing but I’m loving the process and learning.


6. When and how did you realise that you wanted to be involved with podcasting/audio?

L: I don’t think I ever knew until I saw the advert for the course, but seeing that made me realise there was an idea inside me that I really wanted to create and this has been the best opportunity to do that.

J: I saw the poster for the course, it looked bright and interesting, but it also seemed like quite a comprehensive course. This really appealed to me and I realised it literally started the following week so I didn’t have time to think about it – I just went for it.


7. What have you gained from this course?

L: The list is endless. I’ve gained a new set of friends, some amazing technical skills which have allowed me to create something I love that I will hopefully share with the world soon, and I gained the confidence to do something way out of my comfort zone.

J: I’ve gained all the skills I knew I needed to podcast but I just planned to pick them up along the way, but now I have them all under my belt to go.


8. What’s your biggest aspiration for creating or working in audio/podcasting?

L: I really want to create a successful podcast about nursing. I feel like I have something quite unique to offer to the podcasting world.


9. Where do you see yourself after this is all finished?

L: Probably super busy! I have so many ideas whizzing around about what I want to create, and hopefully it will be out there soon – watch this space.

J: I already had some ideas in the mix but I’m going to use what I put together for this course as a kick-off to create the fully formed podcast now! Obviously, I’ve built some momentum now to do this alongside work but it would also be fun, now I’m part of the podcasting and audio community to explore this professionally. Also because I work in sustainability, we’re often communicating about climate change, and what others are doing and sharing messages. So there’s a lot of scope to bring audio into that line of work too.

We can’t wait to see what this pair and other participants have up their sleeves moving forward from here! Don’t forget if you would like to get involved or find out more about any of our projects, please drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk.

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Projects Upcoming Projects

NEXT STEPS: FOR YOUR FUTURE (FUNDED BY MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL)

Are you looking for the next step in your career or creative journey? Look no further than our acclaimed Next Steps sessions, our monthly online sessions that offer valuable career advice and the chance to meet professionals in various creative fields.

The session, funded by Manchester City Council, is completely free to attend and is taking place on 8th June, 3.30PM – 5.30PM.

What’s better than free careers guidance and connecting with professionals to gain valuable insights into your future. Sign up for Next Steps today and take the first step towards realizing your creative potential.

See the flyer below for more details.

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REMOTE RHYTHM LAB #2 W/ CHULU & OBEKA

We’re back with the second episode of our Remote Rhythm Lab docuseries – a collection of mini documentaries following our three pairs of South African and Manchester creatives, collaborating musically to create a track towards their exclusive EP, Mutualism. This project has kindly been funded by British Council, and curated with the help of our friends shesaid.so South Africa and Rose Bonica. For those of you wondering more about the Remote Rhythm Lab project, head to our blog here. In the meantime, meet our next pair of collaborators, Chulu & Obeka.

CHULU

We’re transported to Cape Town as Chulu introduces themself beneath the screen, and instantly we are drawn to their infectious and open energy. “I suppose you could say I am an R&B, neo-soul artist, but that’s only because that’s what is nearest and dearest to my heart”. Manchester-based Obeka, on the other hand, is attracted to creating Caribbean come African diaspora-infused beats, combined with electronic and handmade sounds. The pair’s varying introductions set us up for an opposing, but simultaneously complimentary collaboration.

The pair navigated their remote and internationally-distanced communication well, with a core narrative driving the creation of the record. “The track was actually inspired by one of the very first conversations Obeka and I had when we were trying to get familiar with each other. I had just come back from a much needed trip back home and we related to the feeling of longing to be around family but being distanced by circumstance. We noted creating something that felt like a siren call to home”, says Chulu. With this initial idea in mind, the pair focused on their expertise, with Obeka taking to the beats and percussion, and Chulu homing in on the vocals and melodies.

OBEKA

Although their experience lay in different fortes, it soon became apparent their differences were going to work in each others’ favour. “The collaboration, while a little outside of my comfort zone, felt very natural and helped me engage with my writing in particular in a new and exciting way”, notes Chulu, talking about what they took from the project. However, the mentor and mentee dynamic of this collaboration was definitely remoulded in this unique experience with both parties actually learning from one another. “I learned more and more each day during our writing processes alongside my personal challenges of working with a vocalist”, says Obeka, “it enabled me to focus on finding a balance between my drumwork and percussion whilst also allowing the melodic presence of Chulu to shine. Overall I grew a monumental understanding of sculpting vocals and building an atmosphere within the dynamic of a song”.

The duo’s track, Alone, forms a vital part of the wider Mutalism EP, acting as an ode to the necessity of differences in creative collaborations to truly make something notable and special. Not only this, but the record is a great expression of the unity music provides to communities, families, and two creatives on opposite sides of the world. Obeka puts it best with “if we harness this [togetherness and unity] and take care of the people around us, you’ll never be alone!”

Check out the full documentary episode below.

Listen to the full Mutualism EP below, to get a taste of what our other collaborators created.

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DJ SESSIONS: BEGINNERS DJ COURSE (FUNDED BY MAES)

Are you ready to kickstart your DJing journey?

We’re back with a brand new beginners DJ Course in partnership with our friends, Do As You Please. From the 30th of May to the 2nd of June, and then the 5th of June to the 7th of June, you’re invited to Reform Radio to learn the likes of beatmatching, how to self-promote and source gigs.

Following the course, we’re here to help you with industry opportunities and career support too. But first, let’s get behind the decks.

The best part? All of this is FREE and travel and lunch is provided. See you there.

This course is kindly funded by Manchester Adult Education Service.

Check out the flyer below for more info and to get involved.

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RAISE THE BAR: THE BLUNTSKINS

We recently welcomed back Manchester foursome, The Bluntskins, into the studio for the Jorgy and Cheech show in celebration of their new album, Skunkadelic. Not only did they chat us through the release, but we were also lucky enough to hear a live rendition of two tracks from the record.

The Bluntskins, have been making moves on the Manchester scene since the early 2010’s and have self-released six albums over the years. Blending hip-hop bars with sweet soulful choruses, the band make the perfect listening to wind down to. This Jorgy and Cheech special is definitely one to listen to after a long day.

Get a listen of it yourself and check out the show, or watch the full live session below.

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REMOTE RHYTHM LAB #1 W/ SINGLEMOTHEROFTWO & ELLEN BETH ABDI

Ramping creativity and collaboration up to the next level, we are back with a bang with the new edition of our Remote Rhythm Lab. The initial seeds of this project were planted in early 2021 when ten South African music makers were invited to be mentored by the renowned electronic act, producer and visual artist, Rose Bonica, and shesaid.so. The South African arm of shesaid.so is a collective focused on the unity of women, LGBTQIA+ and gender non-conforming creatives, which works to elevate the voices of marginalised genders in the music industry.

Following some remarkable mentoring sessions, all participants submitted their tracks for the opportunity to be selected for our penultimate Remote Rhythm Lab project. Within this, we invited our three selected finalists of undeserving areas of the Western Cape of South Africa to be mentored and collaborate with three experienced Manchester producers. Not only did they create a track together, but they also recorded the process in contribution towards our Remote Rhythm Lab docuseries, centred on their creative process and the challenges they faced. Fast forward to now, and we’ve got a whole EP and mini docuseries to show for it – and our first episode is out now! Keep reading to meet our first pair of collaborators in our Remote Rhythm Lab documentary debut.

Whilst some of you may have heard of Remote Rhythm Lab before, this exciting series of projects forms differently each time. Back in 2018, we saw five pairs of differing artists spending 24 hours in our studios to fast-track the creation of a collaborative track. Meanwhile, in 2020, COVID-19 led to the fruition of our first Remote Rhythm Lab – a project made possible by Jägermeister and the Arts Council. This involved Manchester artists pairing up with four artists from across the world to create a track via exploratory virtual methods in 24 hours. This year, kindly funded by British Council, we tested the boundaries of remote collaboration again with our pairs taking to their decks, computers, and instruments to make a record remotely.

Meet our first pairing: Manchester vocalist and music maker Ellen Beth Abdi and electronic artist Singlemotheroftwo, a.k.a Björn

SINGLEMOTHEROFTWO

“Music has always been an important and special part of my daily activity, or almost a meditative process where I can externalise and synthesise things into more sonic and audible soundscapes in ways I can’t translate my thoughts and feelings in the world”, says Björn, introducing themself on the pair’s documentary all the way in South Africa. Next we meet Ellen, acting as both a mentor and collaborator to Björn, who makes a nod to this being her first experience of making a track completely remotely with someone on the other side of the world and the initial difficulties they faced. “The tune itself is called Teething Problems because of the initial issues we had when attempting to record on zoom”.

From Björn’s start of chopping up and playing with a 135bpm amen break drumbeat, to Ellen coming in with a taste of her soulful melodies and chords. Whilst the pair’s typical genres and production processes didn’t align, they ended up complimenting each other’s areas of expertise and struggles – “we have very different musical backgrounds with regards to the instruments and styles we play and our method of production. Turns out that difference actually lent itself really well to the creative process as we filled in the blanks for each other when creating the track”, says Ellen.

ELLEN BETH ABDI

However, it wasn’t just the combined creativity and remote process which pushed the pair to new boundaries, Björn also acknowledged how working with a fellow creative in Manchester made them more able to create a safe and appropriate space for the LGBTQIA+ community within the electronic music scene. The combination of both individuals’ life experiences and creativity made the idyllic blend in completing Teething Problems, which Ellen describes as mellow, sincere, and floaty within the episode. To see the full creative process and our first set of artists working together, check out our first episode now.

Teething Problems is part of a full record, featuring collaborative tunes made by all of our pairings on the project, released on our sister label Rhythm Lab. To hear a sneak peek of the music before our next documentary episode is out, listen to the Mutalism EP below.

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BEHIND THE SCENES: MUSIC COURSE – APRIL (FUNDED BY MAES)

Last week, our April’s edition of Music Course (kindly funded by MAES) finished on a real high with a live radio show, showcasing our incredible participants’ range of talent and skills. This time round, the group channeled their collective creativity to form Space Odyssey, a show centred on their diversity as individuals and their shared love of quality tunes.

We caught up with Kathy to chat about her experience over the past two weeks at Reform, and where she’s going from here.

Can you please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about what you’re up to at the moment?

Hey, I’m Kathy (she/her/they/them) and I’m currently spending most of my time working on a setting up a community radio station for a market in Birmingham. When I’m not here, that’s what you’ll find me doing!

If your friends had to describe you in three words – what do you think they’d be?

Weird – that’s definitely what comes out their mouth the most: “you’re weird” – and probably fun and kind.

If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

This is the hardest question ever – I like too many albums. If I had to choose an artist, it would be Nina Simone. Anything by Nina Simone moves me, so probably a greatest hits of hers.

What prompted you to get involved in the Music Course?

Funnily enough, I didn’t actually think it was a music course – I thought it was radio and production vibes. Then when I got here they said “you’re going to make a song”, but it has actually been really good to step outside of my comfort zone and push myself to share my own creative work with others, rather than facilitate others.

Let’s throw it back to your first day at Reform versus today, tell me what has changed about your first impressions, your thoughts, feelings and more.

Initially I was really hesitant, I had no idea what song I wanted to make and whether I could. But this place has taught me the importance of sharing rubbish things, and stuff you might feel embarrassed about. I’ve shared some really embarrassing work in this room, and it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done, because it loosens you up and reminds you that it’s okay to make mistakes as it’s all part of the creative process.

What else will you be taking from the Music Course moving forward?

It’s made me want to make more, create more, share more, and honestly make more rubbish things so I can figure out what I actually want to achieve. It’s made me really appreciate my own creative process, because we’ve had free reign to embrace our own way of doing things and be non-linear with our processes.

What’s your go-to genre to listen to after a long day?

That really depends on the type of long day I’ve had. But I think it would have to be 90s entrance, to sing along to and let go of the day. Or even massive fairground tunes that you hear on rides to blast out if people have really annoyed me.

Last question, if you could meet any artist who has ever lived on this planet, who would it be and why?

Wow, that’s a massive question. Bob Marley has really taught me a lot about being a good human, but I think it would have to be Stevie Wonder – what a huge inspiration.

Listen to the full show below.

If you would like to get involved or find out more about any of our projects, please drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk. 

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NEXT STEPS: FOR YOUR FUTURE (FUNDED BY MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL)

Are you looking for the next step in your career or creative pursuits? Look no further than Next Steps, our online session that offers valuable career advice and the chance to meet professionals in various creative fields.

The session, funded by Manchester City Council, is completely free to attend and is taking place on 26th April 3.30PM – 5.30PM.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with professionals and gain valuable insights into your future career. Sign up for Next Steps today and take the first step towards realizing your creative dreams!

See the flyer below for more details.

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CV Sessions (FUNDED BY MANCHESTER CITY COUNCIL)

Are you on the hunt for your dream job but struggling to get past the application stage? You’re not alone! In today’s competitive job market, it’s more important than ever to make sure your CV and cover letter stand out from the crowd. That’s where our free CV Sessions come in.

Funded by Manchester City Council, this one-day session is designed to help you perfect your CV, application forms, and cover letters. You’ll learn how to showcase your skills and experience in a way that catches the eye of potential employers. Plus, we’ll work on interview skills and improving your confidence, so you’re ready to impress when it comes to the big day.

Not only will you walk away with a killer CV and improved interview skills, but you’ll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and build your professional network. And did we mention it’s completely free to attend?

So what are you waiting for? Sign up for our CV Sessions course today and take the first step towards landing your dream job!

The next session will take place on Monday 3rd April from 1PM – 4PM at Reform Radio.

See the flyer below for further details.

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Raise The Bar: Frisko

Recently, we had the pleasure of welcoming Manchester’s very own Frisko to our studios who delivered an impressive freestyle on the latest Jorgy and Cheech show. Frisko has made a name for himself in the music industry, having released numerous tracks on Manchester’s Room2 records label.

Frisko, as he is known in the industry, recently delivered the latest release from Room2 records, produced by Kydro. The track showcases his exceptional lyrical prowess as he details his readiness to fight and stay active in the music scene.

Frisko’s unique style and undeniable talent have helped him gain recognition and respect from fans and fellow musicians alike. His music carries a certain energy and intensity that draws listeners in and keeps them hooked.

Listen back to the show with Frisko to hear more and watch the performance below.

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Behind The Scenes: In Focus Radio (Funded by ESF & Skills For Growth)

Our In Focus: Radio recently wrapped up in late February. During this course, participants learned about audio production, presenting, music sequencing, research and interview skills, recording, editing & sound design, industry advice and knowledge on BBC systems. 

We caught up with Nadya, one of the participants on the course to see how they got on.

Please introduce yourself/name/pronouns?

My name is Nadya Vella, my pronouns are she/her. 

Please can you tell us a little bit about yourself? What are your interests? What are your hobbies?

I’m a Canadian DJ based in Manchester. My hobbies obviously include music and fashion too. Yeah, to be honest, outside of my day job I am working on lots of different things to do with music and otherwise I am a simple girl. 

What interests you about radio and audio in general?

Well, something that interests me about it is that on a global scale you are connecting to people and things you know very little about, but can enjoy at the same time. I love the elements of music, which also feels universal as you don’t necessarily need to speak the same language to understand. I enjoy the intricacies of radio, you may have one person talking but a whole team of people are there producing it. So with this course, it was really nice to kind of see that unfold for me and grasp all the different elements involved. 

What’s your favourite aspect about radio/audio? 

Yeah, I guess it’s that idea of connection and of course the platforms. I think with the kind of radio stations like Reform, for me, and even like the BBC, I do really love that aspect of freedom and self-expression that you can have with showcasing things that touch you, or you think is fire. It’s really nice to be able to just put yourself out there in a way that is safe and you are able to share things that are important to you. 

When and how did you realise that you wanted to be involved with radio/audio?

When I was Year 8, in school in Canada we had optional classes. I took TV & Radio, because I thought it sounded easy and interesting. It focused on video editing, how to run a radio show and about its structures. It was a light overview of a full production. Me and my friends then kickstarted our junior high radio show. So its all kind of continued on since then. I got deeper into my craft with age and time, especially my DJing and as I put more time into it, radio became an obvious route.

What have you gained from this course? 

What systems the BBC use, how things are correlated between people working and making sure they get paid for tracks and audio. I enjoyed learning about the Reaper software. I noticed that having a relationship with your producer can really elevate your radio shows.

What’s your biggest aspiration for creating or working in audio/radio?

I would love to do a BBC 1 Residency and I know there have been Canadians that have done it, but I’d love to show up for East Africa as well and to be a representative on a platform like the BBC would be amazing. 

Where do you see yourself after this is all finished?

On a beach! Also I do hope my radio show becomes tighter, maybe with new connections I have made through this course, new opportunities may arise and I am hopeful that they will. I would like to collaborate with these same like minded individuals to push ourselves to the forefront of what a good radio show looks like.

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Introducing ‘Made The Same Way’: A Brand New Podcast Blending Science and Music

What happens when you mix a biologist and a badass female MC? The result is a unique and captivating blend of raw talent, honest insights, and rhymes about the fascinating process of fertilisation. Get ready to have your mind blown and your senses awakened as “Made The Same Way” takes you on a journey through the wonders of human development.

“Made The Same Way”, a revolutionary new podcast hosted by Manchester’s very own OneDa. Bringing together scientists and emerging female rappers, this experimental podcast dives headfirst into the fascinating world of human development – from the moment sperm meets egg, all the way up until the day we are born.

No question is off-limits as these dynamic pairs discuss what makes us human and explore the intricacies of where we come from. With each of the eight episodes, listeners will be privy to the creative process, as the pairs collaborate on an original piece inspired by their conversations.

“Made The Same Way” is a collaborative project between Manchester production company Reform Radio and the Wellcome-funded Human Developmental Biology Initiative (HDBI). This groundbreaking podcast challenges traditional views on science, life, and music, and is sure to captivate and enlighten audiences around the world.

Listen to the episodes and remember to rate, comment and review here: https://podfollow.com/1670418360.

Get ready to be inspired, entertained, and educated like never before with “Made The Same Way” – the podcast that’s changing the game for science and music lovers everywhere.

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Raise The Bar: Superlative

Introducing Superlative – one of Manchester’s finest artists.With rhythm that’ll make you move and lyrics that pack a punch, Superlative’s talent is undeniable. This 26-year-old producer and rapper is on the fast track to greatness, and we’re here for it.

Superlative‘s artistic talents know no bounds, spanning music videos, songwriting, rapping, and performing. He’s a true jack-of-all-trades, and his success is evident from his long list of accomplishments. He’s been named Red Bull‘s Raise the Bar Winner, featured in a Manchester Evening News article, and been introduced on BBC1 & 1XTRA. His track was also chosen as BBC6 Music’s Track of the Week, he’s been on Barz in Carz, and reached No. 3 in the Amazing Music Radio Charts. This guy is the real deal.

His upcoming single ‘Deja You’ is due to drop 25th April, so keep your eyes and ears peeled for its release!

Listen back to the full show to find out more about Superlative and all that went down with Jorgy & Cheech in the studio.

Watch the full performance below.

Listen back to the show here.

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Projects Upcoming Projects

Music Course (FUNDED BY MAES)

Are you a music lover looking to take your creativity to the next level? Do you have a passion for radio production, social media, and creative writing? Well, have we got the workshop for you!

Introducing the Music Course – a two-week program focused on music production and creating your own radio show to showcase your original creations. Funded by the amazing Manchester Adult Education Service, this project runs from April 10th to April 21st, with a taster day on April 5th.

Get ready to rock your socks off as you learn all the ins and outs of music production and show off your talents to the world through your very own radio show. This is a great opportunity to hone your skills, unleash your creativity, and take your love for music to new heights.

Drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk to get involved in this project. Check out the flyer below for more details – we can’t wait to see you there!

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Creative Leadership (FUNDED BY MAES)

Do you dream of being your own boss and running a successful business? If so, you’ll want to take advantage of our upcoming 4-day course dedicated to all things freelancing!

Creative Leadership is a comprehensive course that will teach you everything you need to know about facilitation, funding, taxes, and what it takes to be a freelancer. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this course will give you the tools and knowledge you need to succeed.

Learn how to understand your audience, navigate self-employment, and manage your taxes. You’ll also gain invaluable skills in facilitating workshops, delivering socially engaged projects, writing funding bids, working with partners, planning sessions, and evaluating success.

The course will be held on March 30th, 31st and 6th, 14th April from 10AM to 4PM, so mark your calendars and get ready to learn from the best in the business.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take your freelancing game to the next level. Check out the flyer below for all the details on how to get involved, or drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk.

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Behind The Scenes – In Focus: Content & Social Media (Funded by ESF & Skills For Growth)

We are Toju, Mike and Nat – participants of the latest In Focus: Content and Social Media course which just finished and we are thrilled to share some exciting insights with you! We worked on a creative brief to produce a social media strategy for a local clothing designer, Rhea Barry, who has just released her new collection.

About the Course 

The In Focus: Content and Social Media was a comprehensive 7-week course designed to help individuals gain practical experience in digital content creation. Delivered by Reform Radio’s experienced Content & Marketing Team and industry experts, this programme was amazing at helping us develop our skills in marketing, video, and photography.

The course consisted of structured modules, covering topics such as social media and marketing strategies, analytics, trends, and audience development, planning and implementing a social media marketing campaign, and working from briefs to developing concepts. We also learnt the basics of filming and concept production, including creating short-form videos for different platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and editing and post-production.

The course was funded by the Skills for Growth & European Social Fund.

Our Group worked on a project for a local fashion designer as a part of the programme.

In Focus Participants Toju, Mike and Nat

Rhea B is a clothing designer and seamstress based in Cheetham Hill, Manchester. She is the one woman show behind ‘RB Funky Creations’; clothing company boasting one-of-a-kind and small-batch pieces all designed, cut, sewn and packaged by Rhea herself.

Rhea

Known for her signature ‘woodland fairy’ aesthetic, as well as her use of creative up-cycling, Rhea’s online platform has garnered an impressive following on social media platforms.

Rhea B champions the philosophy of ‘Slow Fashion’ and wastes absolutely zero fabric. She sources materials from end of line fabrics, charity shop items and eBay deadstock as well as some locally sourced new fabrics.

To mark the drop of her new collection, Reform Radio were lucky enough to host Rhea B at the station to meet her, shoot some of her clothing, and ask her some questions about her process.

Rhea handmakes new collections with drops every couple of months. They are all one of a kind or small batch pieces ranging in sizes Xs-3XL. Rhea works from her Manchester studio and designs, cuts, sews, packages and posts everything herself. She uses a mix of new fabrics, end of line and recycles old clothes to create her designs, so everything is unique. 

Purple Pixi Drop is a mix of tops, skirts and accessories. Running theme of the collection is a focus on trimmings, lace up detail and beaded fringing. Merging the colour purple with all the shades and textures that are made when Rhea combines lace, mesh velvet and stretch jerseys (always focused on comfort as well!). Rhea also saves all the scraps from cutting out the designs and uses these to create her patchwork gloves and panels so nothing is wasted. 

Images from the shoot

If you want to get involved in the next In Focus: Content & Social Media course, drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk.

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IWD at Reform Radio

International Women’s Day is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. At Reform Radio, we’re proud to join the millions of people around the world who are marking this important day by highlighting the achievements of women, both past and present, and showcasing the incredible work that women are doing in our community and beyond. From creative workshops and events to inspiring stories and interviews, here’s a look at some of the ways we’re celebrating IWD this year.

Get involved in our free up and coming creative workshops. For any questions or to register, drop us an email at projects@reformradio.co.uk.

Positive Frequencies (6th – 10th March)

HERchester UP NORTH (Various Locations March – May)

Radio Gaga (Mondays for 8 weeks)

Listen to our most recent Made The Same Way podcast, A collaborative project between Reform Radio and the Wellcome funded ‘Human Developmental Biology Initiative’ (HDBI), each episode introduces one emerging artist and one knowledgeable researcher to discuss science, life, and music. The series are hosted by Manchester rapper Oneda, bringing together scientists and emerging female rappers.

Do As You Please Open Decks Event at Joshua Brooks

Our very own DJ Sessions delivery partner is hosting an open deck and open mic event in the infamous Joshua Brooks, it’s free entry, so there are no excuses not to come.

Rewind to Reform’s Women/Non-Binary Resident Shows


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blog Featured Projects Funders Projects The Prince’s Trust

Get Started with Radio: Prince’s Trust

This January we welcomed an amazing group of young people to Reform as part of the Prince’s Trust ‘Get Started with Radio’ course. With just one week to master the skills of researching, interviewing, editing and presenting on a live radio slot, its fair to say the whole group killed it!

We hope the participants who took part had as much as fun and joy we had. To watch them so quickly bond, create and prepare for the work that they produced has been an impressive journey.

Watch the round-up video below to see highlights of the week:

Not to mention the range and quality of content they produced, smashing it live in the Reform studios and airwaves! Don’t take our word for it, check out their work below.

Listen back to the live radio show below:

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WE ARE HIRING A NEW CONTENT CREATOR

There is an exciting opportunity to join the Reform Radio team in Manchester, as our new Content Creator. We’re a growing community interest company and award-winning online radio station, dedicated to supporting young people to access cultural opportunities and career pathways in the creative industries. As part of our Content & Marketing Team you will be creating captivating digital content using various media forms, including video, photo, as well as writing copy for social media and our website.

Our ideal candidate will have experience of working with digital content, with a commitment to the work of Reform Radio, but we are open to considering applications from people with a range of relevant experiences. We’re committed to supporting young people from underrepresented and underserved groups within the creative industries, and therefore encourage applications from individuals from these groups.

ROLE DESCRIPTION:

The role of the Content Creator will be to;

  • Create captivating digital content in video and photo form, whilst adhering to Reform Radio brand aesthetic
  • Collaborate with Content & Marketing team members to create video and photo content that effectively drives results
  • Oversee planning and necessary communications to prepare for gathering footage/photography
  • Create marketing materials in form of flyers and graphics 
  • Maintain consistency in content and ensure alignment with the brand history and plans
  • Conduct both on-site and off-site video and photo shoots
  • Oversee equipment upkeep and appropriate use of video/photo equipment
  • Write copy for social media and Reform Radio website using the company’s tone 
  • Conduct research to learn more about current trends, developments, and perceptions about the subject matter, and then contextualizing your findings
  • Monitor social media and company website, respond to comments, messages and engage with our audience 
  • Monitor social media and company website metrics 
  • Collect data and report to the Content & Marketing Manager 
  • Use a variety of technical skills and software to complete production, including Adobe Suite (Premiere Pro, Photoshop, Lightroom, After Effects) 
  • To complete all necessary paperwork, and follow all systems relating to the Content Creator role on time and to a high standard. 
  • To attend all training as requested by Reform Radio. 
  • To comply with our policies. 
  • To be flexible to working evenings and weekends.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential skills, knowledge and qualities required:

  • Experience of creating content (video/photo/written) 
  • Strong creative skills and attention to detail 
  • Strong writing and verbal communication skills
  • Analytical thinking 
  • Understanding of social media platforms and their features (Instagram/Facebook/Twitter/Youtube/Linked In)
  • Excellent organisational skills
  • Ability to work to deadlines 
  • A good knowledge and experience of working with Adobe Suite (Premiere Pro, Photoshop, Lightroom)
  • Ability to identify and drive new creative approaches to content creation
  • Knowledge and interest in local and international music scenes and art communities

Desirable skills, knowledge and qualities required:

  • Graphic design experience 
  • Understanding of WordPress and other CMS platforms 
  • Advanced knowledge of social media algorithms 
  • Experience of working with young people

JOB DETAILS:

Hours: 16hrs/week – This role is generally Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm, but some weekend and evening work is required.

Salary: £10.90 per hour

Annual Leave: 11.5 days + your birthday

Pension: Nest Pension scheme 

Location: This role is mainly office based, with some place based work and some flexibility to work from home when required. Address: Bonded Warehouse, 18 Lower Byrom St, Manchester, M3 4AP

To apply, please send the following to natasha@reformradio.co.uk before 5pm on 17th February 2023:

  • A CV (max 2 pages)
  • And either a cover letter (max 2 pages)
  • Or a video/audio file (max 2 minutes/200 words per question) telling us about:
    • Why you want the role
    • What skills and experience do you think you  will bring to this role
    • Why you think you’re a good fit for this role
    • One person who you’ve made an impact on in your career so far

If you have any other access needs/requirements or if you are facing barriers in applying that we can help remove then please get in touch. We look forward to hearing from you.